Grand Metropolitan Hotels strengthens global presence with Signature Hotels acquisition

UK – Zurich-based Grand Metropolitan Hotels (GMH) has announced the acquisition of London-based boutique operator Signature Hotels, marking a key milestone in its global growth strategy.

Financial terms were not disclosed, but Signature Hotels will continue operating as a boutique lifestyle brand within GMH’s extensive portfolio.

This transaction unites two family-run companies that share a vision of guest-focused hospitality, boutique design, and regional authenticity.

Signature Hotels currently operates four upper-midscale boutique properties in London, including the Signature Townhouse Hyde Park and Park Avenue Baker Street.

The group also has two hotels under development in India, providing GMH with a strategic entry into one of hospitality’s fastest-growing markets.

GMH’s Founder and Chairman, Martin R. Smura, described the acquisition as a synergy of local credibility and international ambition.

“London remains one of the most competitive hospitality markets globally, and Signature Hotels’ strength there, combined with its India ties, offers GMH immediate growth avenues,” he said.

Signature CEO Ramesh Arora will join GMH’s Supervisory Board, ensuring leadership continuity and brand heritage.

Guests of the London properties can expect broader loyalty benefits through GMH’s global network, while maintaining Signature’s intimate, locally-resonant experience.

The acquisition reflects broader market trends favoring boutique and lifestyle hotels, particularly in gateway cities like London and emerging markets like India.

GMH plans to integrate Signature’s teams while safeguarding its distinctive brand identity, balancing global operational efficiency with personal service quality.

This strategic expansion adds significant value to GMH’s portfolio by enhancing its presence in mature and high-growth regions, offering diversified options for business and leisure travelers alike.

Grand Metropolitan Hotels (GMH) has made significant investments over the past two years to expand its global portfolio and strengthen its market position.

In 2024, GMH acquired the prestigious Voile d’Or Hotels and Resorts brand, which includes luxury flagship properties in prime locations such as London, Paris, New York, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, St. Barths, and Courchevel.

This acquisition enhances GMH’s presence in the ultra-luxury segment and sets the stage for expansion into new destinations including the Maldives, Dubai, and Lisbon.

Earlier in 2025, GMH acquired a majority stake in TOP INTERNATIONAL Hotels, one of Europe’s largest hotel affiliation networks. This move boosts GMH’s member hotels’ competitiveness across global markets, leveraging innovative technologies and a proprietary reservation system.

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