Real estate and management company HHM Hotels has launched Echelon Luxury & Lifestyle, a newly formed business division. Of the 240 properties managed by HHM Hotels, Echelon represents more than 50 hotels and resorts across the country.
“Echelon Luxury & Lifestyle showcases the refined business capabilities that we have offered as a management company in the independent space for 15-plus years,” HHM Hotels President and CEO Naveen Kakarla said in a statement. “With the growing popularity of independent hotels and resorts, we provide travelers with a more unique experience, while focusing on business development for owners and investors.”
Notable independent brands within Echelon’s portfolio of properties include Philadelphia’s The Rittenhouse; Dallas’ The Joule; The Envoy Hotel in Boston’s Seaport district; and the Sanctuary Beach Resort in Monterey Bay, Calif.
At its core, Echelon Luxury & Lifestyle's operational edge aims to drive bookings and direct business for owners through omni-channel distribution initiatives focused on maximum penetrations within a range of consumer markets. Echelon is centered around a suite of creative divisions and in-house studios. The Culinary Studio by Echelon develops 360-degree food-and-beverage programs while its Creative Studio develops full-service creative and branding services including messaging for style guides, photography and operating supplies and equipment sourcing and development.
Independent hotels and their owners will become "true place-makers" within their communities, according Kakarla. The properties reflect the landscapes around them, with locally influenced design, amenities and leisure venues—along with destination insights from hotel team members.
“We deliver investor returns while still focusing on innovation and flexibility. Our dedicated team of experienced operators, marketing professionals, and project management teams provide a full spectrum of services,” Kakarla said. “They’re fully focused on value-creation while pushing excellence in the independent space.”