Banyan Group is acquiring a majority stake in Newmark Hotels & Reserves, a Cape Town-based hospitality management company, in a deal that will bring 26 hotels, lodges, and reserves into its portfolio. The transaction is structured in phases, with Banyan Group moving toward full ownership of Newmark over time. The companies announced the deal on September 17.
Newmark will join Banyan Group as a collection brand while keeping its existing name, leadership, teams, and local operating approach. Its portfolio spans Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. The properties include city and heritage hotels, country and nature lodges, island retreats, and private game reserves.
Newmark Adds African Properties and Expertise
Newmark was founded in 2007 by Neil Markovitz and is headquartered in Cape Town. Its portfolio includes Motswari Private Game Reserve in South Africa, which has been part of Newmark since 2013, QWABI Private Game Reserve in the Waterberg, and Gorilla Heights Lodge near Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The company also operates properties in Zanzibar and Mauritius.
The deal will expand Banyan Group’s presence in Africa beyond its existing hotels and spas in Morocco, Mauritius, South Africa, and Tanzania. Banyan Group is also preparing to enter West Africa with the upcoming Dhawa Ouidah in Benin. With Newmark added, the group says its portfolio will include nearly 130 hotels, resorts, and reserves, more than 30 branded residences, and over 140 spas and galleries across 28 countries.
Operations to Continue Under Newmark
Newmark will continue to operate under its current brand and leadership, with Neil Markovitz remaining Chief Executive Officer. He said, “Over nearly two decades, Newmark has built its business through strong teams, trusted owner and partner relationships, and a portfolio where each property retains its own identity. Joining Banyan Group gives us greater international reach and access to a wider network of expertise while retaining what has made Newmark successful.”
Eddy See, President and Chief Executive Officer of Banyan Group, added, “Africa is a long-term growth market for Banyan Group. Newmark brings an established management business, long-standing owner relationships, and strong operating capabilities that deepen our presence in the region and strengthen our asset-right model.”
Over time, Newmark properties are expected to become available through Banyan Group’s booking platforms and with its Banyan guest recognition program. The companies said this will give Newmark access to Banyan Group’s international distribution network while retaining its existing direct channels.
FAQ
What is Banyan Group acquiring?
Banyan Group is acquiring a majority stake in Newmark Hotels & Reserves, with a phased structure leading toward full ownership.
How many properties are involved?
Newmark is bringing 26 hotels, lodges, and reserves across seven African countries into Banyan Group’s portfolio.
Will the Newmark brand disappear?
No. Newmark will continue operating as a collection brand under its existing name and leadership.
Which countries are covered?
Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
What is Banyan Group?
Banyan Group is a global hospitality company that operates nearly 130 hotels, resorts, and reserves, along with more than 30 branded residences and over 140 spas and galleries across 28 countries. The group has 14 hospitality and residential brands, including its flagship Banyan Tree brand.
What is Newmark Hotels & Reserves?
Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Cape Town, Newmark is an African hospitality management company that operates nearly 30 properties across seven countries. Its portfolio includes heritage and city hotels, nature lodges, island retreats, and private game reserves.
