One of Japan’s leading hospitality operators, Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide (SPW), has acquired Ace Group International (AGI), parent company of Ace Hotel and its in-house creative agency Atelier Ace.

The deal, expected to close by the end of September 2025, will see SPW pay approximately US$90 million, and result in a combined operation of 94 hotels worldwide, with a further seven in the pipeline. Under the agreement, Ace Hotel will operate under a newly established US subsidiary of SPW, Ace Hotels Worldwide Inc., while retaining independence in brand and creative direction. “Today marks an important milestone in SPW’s journey to become a truly global hotel group with Japanese roots,” said SPW President and CEO, Yoshiki Kaneda. “Ace Hotel brings a distinctive cultural spirit that perfectly complements our portfolio. By uniting Ace’s pioneering approach with SPW’s heritage of omotenashi, the Japanese art of genuine hospitality, and our global footprint, we are creating a hospitality group that is authentic and globally trusted.” The Ace brand portfolio comprises eight hotels in Seattle, New York, Palm Springs, Kyoto, Brooklyn, Sydney, Toronto, and Athens, with development projects in progress such as Ace Hotel Fukuoka, slated for opening in 2027, and further expansion anticipated across North America, Asia and Europe. Meanwhile, SPW’s diverse portfolio includes 86 hotels, 31 golf courses, and 10 ski resorts, across a broad range of destinations, from Tokyo and Kyoto to New York, Singapore, Bahrain, and Hawaii. SPW’s global infrastructure, operational platform and loyalty program is expected to support Ace’s growth strategy, while SPW benefits from Ace’s demonstrated expertise in branding, design, and cultural placemaking. “We’re honoured to join Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide,” said Ace Hotel Chairman, Brad Wilson. “Over the past decade, we’ve grown the Ace brand globally while staying true to our founding principles: transforming historic buildings, contributing to neighbourhood revitalization, and creating places that honour culture and community. “Seibu Prince shares these values, and with their strategic vision and international reach, we can continue to safeguard Ace’s independent spirit while taking the brand to new heights.” Ace Hotel CEO, Chris Penn, said the deal marks the next chapter in the company’s expansion. “Ace has established itself as a leader in experiential hospitality, with a proven ability to create destinations that resonate across cultures and markets,” said Penn. “Our partnership with SPW provides the platform to accelerate expansion, strengthen our market presence, and deliver long-term value, while staying true to Ace’s distinct hospitality model rooted in cultural engagement and creative expression. Together, we are entering the next chapter in Ace’s evolution as a global company.” Founded in Seattle in 1999, Ace is recognised for inspiring social connection through its communal spaces and its engagement with local creatives. Ace Hotel New York, opened in 2009, has been credited with reshaping the boutique hotel landscape. The Ace portfolio also includes award-winning restaurants and bars such as Kiln, Alder, Kosa, Sebastian, Piopiko, Mr. Maurice’s Italian, Evangeline, Loam, and the Good Chemistry coffee concept. The acquisition aligns with SPW’s long-term strategy to expand its global portfolio to 250 hotels by FY2035. “The fit between our two companies is powerful,” added Kaneda. “Seibu Prince brings scale, infrastructure, and development expertise across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, while Ace has deep credibility and a proven track record in North America and Europe. By combining these strengths, we can expand faster and more effectively together.”