Griffin Hotel Management LLC, a family-owned company in the hospitality sector, has officially merged with Meyer Jabara Hotels (MJH). As part of this transition, Griffin is integrating 14 properties into the MJH portfolio. With additional deals in the pipeline for 2024, MJH is set to reach a total of 50 hotels by the first quarter of 2025.
James Kirkland, CEO of Griffin, and majority owner Jay Fishman will take on new positions within MJH; Kirkland will serve as Senior Vice President of Operations for the Western Region, while Fishman will focus on business development.
“Griffin Hotel Management is a legacy organization renowned for its reputation. We are excited to incorporate the core values and culture of this exceptional company into Meyer Jabara Hotels,” stated Justin Jabara, president of Meyer Jabara Hotels. “The Jabara, Meyer, and Fishman families have been trailblazers in hotel franchising, establishing some of the first Holiday Inns. Their dedication to hospitality and extensive industry experience make them invaluable partners.”
This merger not only expands MJH’s portfolio but also extends its geographic reach into Texas, Illinois, Arizona, New Mexico, Minnesota, and Michigan. Furthermore, it introduces MJH to new capital partners associated with Griffin.
“Griffin brings significant expertise to our team, along with a highly regarded collection of talent,” Jabara added.
Before founding Griffin in 2019, Fishman was the CEO of Associated Hotels LLC and previously served as SVP at VMS Realty Partners, where he managed the acquisitions, operations, and sales of over 40 hotels, ranging from midmarket to five-star properties. His experience includes developing workout strategies, loan restructuring, hotel repositioning, and negotiation of management and franchise agreements.
“Meyer Jabara Hotels deeply embodies a rich culture of talent and effective management practices,” Fishman remarked. “They have consistently delivered strong financial returns and long-term value. The extensive resources in human capital, technology, purchasing, renovations, and project management will greatly benefit our properties. Griffin hotels are poised for success, and the future looks very promising.”
Kirkland, prior to joining Griffin, held senior sales and operations roles in both Marriott International and Hilton brands. At Good Hospitality Services, he directed revenue generation across the portfolio. He has also worked with Peachtree Hotel Group in various leadership roles, overseeing the opening of over 30 premium-branded hotels throughout the United States.
“I am excited about the merger between Griffin Hotel Management and Meyer Jabara Hotels,” Kirkland said. “In my role as SVP for the Western Region, I look forward to blending the strengths of both organizations during this period of growth and innovation. Meyer Jabara’s dedication to outstanding hospitality and operational excellence resonates perfectly with our values at Griffin. I anticipate great success and memorable experiences for our guests while supporting the growth of our properties in the Western region.”
The post HB Exclusive: Griffin Hotel Management merges into Meyer Jabara Hotels appeared first on hotelbusiness.com.
