Established
2005
Franchise Units
220
Minimum Investment
$10,000,000
Franchise Fee
$85,000
Total Investment Range
$10,000,000
Home Based
No
Description
Aloft Hotels, part of Marriott International’s portfolio of lifestyle brands, has redefined the concept of modern hospitality with its tech-savvy, design-forward, and urban-inspired hotel experience. Known for its vibrant social spaces, live music events, and trend-setting design, Aloft Hotels caters to millennial travelers and business professionals seeking style, convenience, and affordability. With a strong reputation and global brand recognition, Aloft Hotels has become one of the fastest-growing lifestyle hotel franchises in the USA, making it a top choice for entrepreneurs and investors in the hospitality industry.
The Aloft Hotels franchise combines the backing of Marriott International, one of the world’s largest hospitality groups, with flexibility in hotel design, superior brand marketing, loyalty programs, and operational support. Positioned in the upscale select-service hotel segment, Aloft Hotels bridges the gap between affordability and luxury, offering franchisees a profitable model with long-term growth potential in both urban and suburban U.S. markets.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in an Aloft Hotels franchise provides access to one of the world’s most powerful hospitality networks under the Marriott International umbrella. Here’s why it’s a smart investment:
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Strong Brand Recognition – Backed by Marriott’s global presence and loyalty programs.
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High Demand Market – Targets millennial and Gen Z travelers, the fastest-growing travel demographic.
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Design Flexibility – Adaptable property models fit urban centers, airports, and mixed-use developments.
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Revenue Opportunities – Multiple income streams from rooms, F&B, events, and premium amenities.
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Proven Business Model – Leverages Marriott’s proven operating systems, reservations, and marketing.
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Growing Lifestyle Segment – Positioned in a booming sector with sustained demand.
Background
Established Year: 2005
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Founder: Starwood Hotels & Resorts (acquired by Marriott International in 2016)
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Ownership: Marriott International, one of the largest hotel companies in the world
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Franchise Units: 220+ Aloft Hotels worldwide (100+ in the USA)
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Headquarters: Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Industry Category: Hospitality – Lifestyle Hotels & Select-Service Segment
Brand Journey
Aloft Hotels was launched in 2005 by Starwood Hotels & Resorts as a new-age brand to capture the millennial market. The brand’s distinct design, inspired by urban loft-style living, combined with tech integration such as keyless entry and mobile check-in, revolutionized the midscale hotel market.
After Marriott International acquired Starwood in 2016, Aloft became part of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, giving franchisees access to over 180 million loyalty members worldwide. Today, Aloft Hotels are present in major U.S. cities, airports, and popular travel destinations, making it a trusted choice for business and leisure travelers alike.
Support Training
Marriott ensures Aloft franchise owners receive comprehensive support throughout the franchise lifecycle:
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Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection and feasibility studies
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Hotel design and construction assistance
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Access to Marriott’s architecture and interior design team
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Pre-opening sales and marketing guidance
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Operational Support
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Day-to-day hotel operations support
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Reservation system access (Marriott’s Global Distribution System)
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Vendor and supplier partnerships for efficiency
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Marketing Support
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Integration into Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program
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Global marketing campaigns and branding support
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Social media and digital presence optimization
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Training Programs
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Comprehensive training for management and staff
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Academic resources through Marriott’s learning platform
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On-site training during launch and ongoing workshops
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Ongoing Support
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Regular quality assurance and performance evaluations
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Revenue management strategies
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Continuous updates on hospitality trends and innovations
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Ideal Candidate
The Aloft Hotels franchise is best suited for:
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Experienced Hospitality Investors – Individuals or groups with prior hotel ownership or management experience.
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Entrepreneurs with Strong Capital – Investors with the financial capacity to support large-scale infrastructure.
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Passion for Hospitality & Lifestyle Branding – Enthusiasts who value guest experience, modern design, and tech innovation.
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Location Preference – High-demand urban centers, near airports, universities, business districts, and tourist hotspots.
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Business-Oriented Mindset – Franchisees willing to work with Marriott’s structured systems while maximizing profitability.
Financial Detail
| Financial Aspect | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $12 million – $35 million |
| Minimum Investment | $10 million+ |
| Franchise Fee | $85,000 – $125,000 |
| Infrastructure Cost | Varies based on property size (construction + design) |
| Marketing Budget | 2%–4% of revenue (mandatory contribution) |
| Working Capital | $500,000 – $1 million |
| Royalty Fees | 5% of gross room revenue |
| Expected ROI | 10%–15% annually (depending on location & occupancy) |
| Break-even Time | 3–5 years |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Rooms, food & beverage, events/banquets, premium amenities |
| Current Franchise Units | 220+ worldwide (100+ in the USA) |