There are reports that Blackstone group is considering breaking up Hilton to realize value prior to debt repayment deadlines. Blackstone group purchased Hilton at the peak of the Leveraged Buyout Boom in 2007 for $26 billion. While a Blackstone spokesman is saying the reports are “categorically untrue” the RTT news site has a report, and so does the Wall Street Journal stating that Blackstone is considering breaking up parts of Hilton.
What this means to Hilton Point Junkies
While this doesn’t necessarily mean that the Hilton Honors program will breakup, you can never be too sure. Since most of the Hilton properties are franchised, a sell-off or IPO of assets may or may not have an impact on the Hilton Honors program. Are you willing to bet your points on it?
I would expect that Hilton will see a down tick in stays from their most valuable guests if those guests feel their points are at risk. I’ve already completed my Hilton stays for the year so I have no stays to cancel. If I had stays planned at Hilton Honors with the sole purpose of earning points I would be looking for further news to come out. If I’m right and there is a down-tick in frequent guest stays, I could see Hilton offering up a juicy additional Q3 promo (promo 1, promo 2) to entice frequent guests to continue to frequent their properties.
About The Weekly Flyer
The Weekly Flyer writes about travel from a business traveler perspective. He travels the world every week accumulating points and miles along the way.
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This is very interesting – I wonder if my points will still be good if they break up. I will definitely listen for more news to come out and possibly start staying more at Marriott or SPG. Thanks for the insight!!
I wouldn't completely abandon Hilton at this point. But if your only program is Hilton and you have the ability to diversify your points it is always a good idea. You never know when you'll want to book a free night in a city where there isn't a Hilton.
Good idea! I think that I will stick with Hilton, diversify a little and listen – or check back here for more info about Hilton Honors when it becomes available. Thanks!