LOS ANGELES — Choice Hotels International executives see potential for growth in 2025, both domestic and abroad, but noted hotel investors focused on the U.S. seem to be favoring "tax-free states."
Speaking at the 2025 Americas Lodging Investment Summit, Chief Development Officer David Pepper noted that focus is primarily in the Southern U.S.
"It seems like everyone's moving to the [income] tax-free states," he said. "You're seeing a lot of Texas, Florida, the Southwest as well. That's where a lot of the action is. That's where you're seeing most of the new construction that's happening. But acquisition-wise, people are just looking for opportunities right now, and they're looking for good product that's for sale. You're seeing that nationwide starting to pick up."
Internationally, Choice has lots of opportunity for growth.
"Everyone loves talking about their international pipeline, but we grew up 21% last year," he said. "That's a big focus for us, not just in Europe and Asia, but also in [the Caribbean and Latin America] as well, especially with the Radisson brands doing extremely well in those locations. We see a big opportunity for us."
For more from HNN's interview with Choice's David Pepper, which covers topics such as the possibility of new brand launches, 2025 expectations, new loyalty and lending partnerships and more, watch the video above.