Minor Hotels is gearing up for an anticipated boom in franchising in Australasia with the signing of its fifth franchised hotel in Australia and the appointment of a regional Director of Franchising.
Oaks Redcliffe Mon Komo Suites, on Brisbane’s north side, joins Minor Hotels’ Australasian franchise portfolio which includes recently franchised properties Oaks Toowoomba Hotel, Oaks Townsville Metropole Hotel, Oaks Melbourne on William Suites, as well as the soon-to-open Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel on the Sunshine Coast.
The company also recently appointed Russell Cool as Director of Franchising to spearhead its expansion plans in the region.
The appointment marks Cool’s return to Minor Hotels, having previously led operations for the company’s portfolio in Victoria and South Australia.
“Franchising is a key priority for us, and we are delighted to welcome Russell to this newly appointed position to drive our dynamic plans in this space,” said Minor Hotels Australasia’s Chief Operating Officer, Craig Hooley.
“Savvy hotel owners are increasingly discovering the myriad benefits of partnering with an established brand like Minor Hotels – global reach, comprehensive training, dedicated local support – whilst retaining control of their assets.
“Russell will be responsible for expanding our franchise network across the Australasia region, and his expertise will prove invaluable as he supports our growing portfolio of Minor Hotels franchisees.”
Throughout his career, Cool has also held senior positions with Onyx Hospitality and Langham Hotels, and most recently served as Head of Operations for third-party hotel management company, La Vie Hotels and Resorts, where he oversaw multiple franchised hotels across various brands in both Australia and South Asia.
“I am thrilled to return to the Minor Hotels family at such a crucial time, and I look forward to helping grow the brand’s franchising footprint in the region,” said Cool.
Commenting on the latest signing, Cool said, “Our partner, Lewis Land Group, Australia’s oldest private property developer, has a strong history of quality and excellence, and we are excited to collaborate on this project.”
Lewis Land Group’s Queensland Regional Manager, Chris Alison, said, “Minor Hotels truly embodies the principle of ‘think global, act local’.
“With their strong brand presence and dedicated local team, we are excited to see continued success together.”
Minor Hotels aims to reach 850 properties globally by the end of 2027.