The combined company will operate a broad portfolio comprising more than 300 properties across the United States, Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America spanning urban, resort and outdoor destinations.
The newly merged entity will continue to operate as an owner-focused management company, offering tailored strategies backed by institutional-grade infrastructure, deep operational expertise, and a flexible, entrepreneurial mindset, according to the companies.
Ben Rafter, CEO of Springboard Hospitality, is the new chief executive officer of the combined company. Brad Rahinsky, former president and CEO of Hotel Equities, will assume the role of chairman.
“This next chapter for the combined company establishes scale with expanded regional insight and entrepreneurial agility to support owners across every asset class,” Rahinsky said in a statement.
“We start with what both companies do best: revenue generation and technology innovation," Rafter said. "We’ve earned our reputation by unlocking new revenue opportunities, embracing technology to stay ahead of the curve, and tailoring creative solutions for each asset. From there our combined expertise allows us to move faster, think more creatively, and deliver long-term value in ways that legacy operators simply can’t.”
Al Smith, Hotel Equities’ president of hotel operations, will assume the newly-created role of chief operating officer, and Rob Robinson, executive vice president of Springboard Hospitality, will transition to the role of president of Springboard Hospitality.
As of 12/31/2024, Hotel Equities operated 291 properties while Springboard Hospitality operated 51 properties according to each submission's to Hotel Management's Top Third-Party Management Companies listing.
Marriott has chosen Hotel Equities to manage the properties under its recently acquired brand, Postcard Cabins. Earlier this year, Hotel Equities formed a strategic partnership with Arkansas-based Pinnacle Hotel Group.
Hotel Equities’ operational excellence, scaled purchasing power and expansive North American footprint—combined with Springboard’s entrepreneurial roots and strengths in commercial strategy, technology leadership, and deep expertise in West Coast and Hawaii markets—creates a powerful hospitality platform, according to the companies. A full suite of services—including operations, revenue management, marketing, food and beverage strategy, capital planning and development—supported by dedicated teams.
Additional announcements, including key hires and expanded services, will be shared in the coming months.
By Esther Hertzfeld
