Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide (SPW), a core company of Seibu Group and one of Japan’s leading hospitality operators, has acquired Ace Group International (AGI), parent company of Ace Hotel and creative agency Atelier Ace.
The acquisition was completed through SPW’s newly established U.S. subsidiary, Ace Hotels Worldwide Inc.
Ace Hotel retains brand independence
Under the agreement, Ace Hotel will operate as a subsidiary of SPW’s hotel division while maintaining independence in brand and creative direction. The move ensures the preservation of Ace’s distinct approach to hospitality, which has defined the brand for 26 years.
“Today marks an important milestone in SPW’s journey to become a truly global hotel group with Japanese roots,” says 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.”
Growth aligned with shared values
SPW operates one of the most geographically diverse portfolios among Japanese hotel companies. With locations in Tokyo, Kyoto, New York, Singapore, Bahrain, and Hawaii, its properties range from luxury urban hotels and ryokans to ski resorts and golf retreats.
“We’re honored to join Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide,” says Brad Wilson, chairman of Ace Hotel. “Over the past decade, we’ve grown the Ace brand globally while staying true to our founding principles: transforming historic buildings, contributing to neighborhood revitalization, and creating places that honor 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.”
The lobby bar at Ace Hotel Toronto
The Ace brand portfolio
The Ace brand portfolio currently spans eight properties, including Ace Hotel New York, Ace Hotel Kyoto, Ace Hotel Brooklyn, and the recently opened Ace Hotel & Swim Club Athens.
Development projects are underway (including Ace Hotel Fukuoka, which is slated to debut in 2027), and additional expansion is expected across North America, Asia, and Europe.
Ace also operates a robust F&B program with venues such as Kiln, Alder, Kosa, Sebastian, PIOPIKO, Mr. Maurice’s Italian, Evangeline, Loam, and the Good Chemistry coffee concept.
SPW’s global expansion strategy
The acquisition supports SPW’s long-term plan to grow its portfolio to 250 hotels by 2035. Currently, the company operates 86 hotels, 31 golf courses, and 10 ski resorts. The addition of Ace enhances its global reach with a lifestyle brand that has strong international recognition and cultural influence.
The deal, valued at approximately $90 million, is expected to close by the end of September. Upon completion, SPW and Ace will operate 94 hotels worldwide, with seven more in the pipeline.
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