Hilton’s Partnership with Small Luxury Hotels (SLH) of the World & Why It’s Important
Major hotel brands such as Hilton and Hyatt often collaborate with boutique hotels to expand their offerings. Previously, Hyatt partnered with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) in 2018, enhancing its portfolio with luxury boutique properties. Recently, Hyatt ended this partnership, and Hilton has now secured an exclusive alliance with SLH, which could make Hilton my preferred hotel chain. Let’s explore the implications for both Hilton and Hyatt:
SLH properties are carefully curated boutique hotels, each brimming with unique character and charm. Photo by SLH.
What Is SLH & the Partnership with Hilton?
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) encompasses 570 boutique hotels across 90+ countries, including gems like Domaine de Manville in France and Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge in Cappadocia. These unique properties remain distinct and will benefit from Hilton’s extensive hospitality network while maintaining independent management. Travelers can book SLH hotels using cash or Hilton Honors points via Hilton’s platform, with most properties participating. While only some are currently available through the Hilton app, full integration is expected soon. Hilton Honors members enjoy the added benefit of earning points and having their status recognized at SLH hotels.
Domaine de Manville is a stunning French hotel located in Les Baux-de-Provence, featuring a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Why the Hilton-SLH Partnership Is a Huge Win for Hilton
Hilton's exclusive partnership with SLH significantly enhances its luxury portfolio, elevates its loyalty program, and sets it apart from other hotel chains. The collaboration extends Hilton's reach, especially in underserved markets, and appeals to affluent travelers, driving revenue growth. Hilton bolsters its brand image as a luxury leader by incorporating unique and upscale properties from the SLH network. SLH's distinctive hotels complement Hilton’s existing brands like Curio Collection and Tapestry Collection, making the Hilton Honors program more attractive and competitive.
Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge in Cappadocia is a luxurious cave hotel located next to Uchisar Castle.
Hyatt’s New Partnership with Mr & Mrs Smith
Hyatt has recently acquired Mr & Mrs Smith properties, allowing members to earn and redeem points at additional boutique and luxury hotels worldwide. One of the advantages of booking through the Mr & Mrs Smith network is the exclusive Smith Extra amenity, which is tailored to each property, ensuring a unique experience with every stay. However, point redemptions at Mr & Mrs Smith hotels follow dynamic pricing, unlike Hyatt’s standard award chart. The acquisition enhances Hyatt's luxury offerings, particularly in Europe, but technical challenges and a less favorable redemption rate for Mr & Mrs Smith hotels have been drawbacks, impacting the value of Hyatt points for these bookings.
At Ultima Courchevel Belvédère, the Smith Extra perk is €500 a week to spend on food, drinks or spa treatments at the hotel. Photo by Mr & Mrs Smith.
Summary
As Hyatt incorporates the Mr & Mrs Smith network, Hilton’s partnership with SLH strengthens its portfolio with exceptional hotels worldwide. The alliance between Hilton and SLH offers Hilton loyalists more opportunities to earn and redeem points at SLH properties, with status recognition providing additional incentives. Although not all SLH hotels are yet integrated, the transition has been smooth, positioning Hilton competitively among hotel chains with unique luxury offerings.
