Banyan Group Acquires Newmark Hotels & Reserves in Africa

Banyan Group, a global hotel operator, has just acquired Newmark Hotels & Reserves, a Cape Town, Africa-based hospitality management company.

The acquisition adds 26 hotels, lodges, and reserves across seven African countries to the Banyan Group portfolio. These properties – located in Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe – will join Banyan Group as part of a collection brand and retain its existing brand, teams, and local operating approach. 

“Africa is a long-term growth market for Banyan Group,” said Eddy See, president and CEO of Banyan Group. “Newmark brings an established management business, long-standing owner relationships and strong operating capabilities that deepen our presence in the region and strengthen our asset-right model.”  

“Its local market knowledge and development pipeline, combined with Banyan Group’s international sales, distribution and development network, give us a stronger platform to pursue the right opportunities across Africa.”   

Founded in 2007, Newmark footprint began with the opening of the Victoria & Alfred Hotel in Cape Town. Some of Newmark’s other standout properties include QWABI Private Game Reserve, Motswari Private Game Reserve, and Future Found Sanctuary in South Africa, as well as Gorilla Heights Lodge in Uganda. 

The properties will remain bookable through direct channels, including the Newmark website. Over time, they be added to Banyan Group’s booking platforms and become part of the withBanyan guest rewards program. 

“Newmark’s hotels, lodges and reserves are closely connected to the places in which they operate,” said Ho Ren Yung, Deputy CEO of Banyan Group. “We want to preserve that local approach, particularly in nature-based and wildlife hospitality, where culture, communities and the natural environment are integral to the guest experience. As we grow together, we want each property to retain the character and sense of place that have shaped its success.”   

Banyan Group’s existing Africa properties include four hotels and spas across Morocco, Mauritius, South Africa, and Tanzania. This includes the newly opened Ubuyu, a Banyan Tree Escape, its first safari lodge. 

With this recent acquisition, Banyan Group globally comprises nearly 130 hotels, resorts and reserves in 28 countries.