Baupost: Ties Up With KKR for UK Marriott Hotel Acquisition

Deal News | Dec 03, 2024 | Ropes & Gray

The Baupost Group, a leading investment firm, has partnered with KKR to acquire a portfolio of 33 Marriott hotels across the United Kingdom from a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). This strategic acquisition sees Amante Capital, KKR's European hospitality platform, taking the role of managing partner for the joint venture, ensuring that the properties will continue operating under the premium Marriott brand. The portfolio, featuring more than 6,500 rooms with recent refurbishments, includes hotels in prime locations such as London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, and Liverpool. These accommodations range from full-service properties to those offering amenities catering to both business and leisure clients, with features like conference centers and recreational facilities. Legal advisory for the transaction was provided by Ropes & Gray, with their team led by PERE partners and counsel, supported by associates and specialists in tax, antitrust, and finance.

Sectors

  • Hospitality & Tourism
  • Private Equity & Investment Management
  • Real Estate

Geography

  • United Kingdom – The geography is relevant as the acquisition targets hotel properties located across the UK, including major cities like London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.
  • United States – Both The Baupost Group and KKR are based in the United States, making this geography relevant to the participating companies.

Industry

  • Hospitality & Tourism – This classification is relevant as the transaction involves the acquisition of a portfolio of 33 Marriott hotels, highlighting the focus on hospitality and tourism infrastructure.
  • Private Equity & Investment Management – The involvement of The Baupost Group and KKR, both major investment entities, aligns with the private equity and investment management industry classification.
  • Real Estate – The transaction involves real estate assets in the form of hotels, making this classification pertinent to the article.

Financials

    Participants

    NameRoleTypeDescription
    The Baupost GroupBidding CompanyCompanyA leading investment firm that partnered with KKR to acquire the Marriott hotel portfolio.
    KKRBidding CompanyCompanyA global investment firm involved in the joint venture with The Baupost Group to purchase the hotel portfolio.
    Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA)VendorCompanyThe seller of the 33 Marriott hotel portfolio.
    Amante CapitalManaging PartnerCompanyKKR's European hospitality platform, acting as managing partner for the joint venture.
    Ropes & GrayLegal AdvisorCompanyProviding legal advisory services to The Baupost Group in the joint venture acquisition.