Marriott International Expands Footprint in Brazil with City Express Launch

On July 15, 2025, Marriott International, Inc. made a significant announcement concerning its expansion in Brazil, marking the debut of its City Express by Marriott brand in the country. The company signed a multi-unit development agreement with FÁBRICA DE HOTÉIS to establish seven new City Express hotels, paving the way for a total of 30 properties across Brazil's Northeast region over the next 15 years.

The announcement was celebrated during a special ceremony in the picturesque locale of Porto de Galinhas. The event was attended by local government officials, representatives from FÁBRICA DE HOTÉIS, Marriott executives, and members of the media, highlighting the collaborative effort and local significance of this development.

This milestone is part of Marriott's broader strategy to enhance its presence in the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) region. In recent months, the brand has announced similar initiatives, including the anticipated entry of City Express by Marriott into El Salvador with four new hotels and plans to expand into Argentina, Bolivia, Nicaragua, and Peru beginning in January 2025. Earlier this year, City Express by Marriott also made its debut in the United States with plans to extend into Canada.

Currently, the City Express by Marriott brand boasts a presence in five countries, with an impressive pipeline of over 60 projects in various stages of development. This rapid growth underscores Marriott's commitment to the midscale hospitality segment, offering quality accommodations at accessible price points.

Federico Greppi, Chief Operations Officer for Marriott International in CALA, expressed his enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, "We're excited to continue our collaboration with FÁBRICA DE HOTÉIS to bring the City Express by Marriott brand to Brazil." He emphasized the importance of blending Marriott's global expertise with local knowledge to deliver high-quality accommodations through the Marriott Bonvoy ecosystem.

Bojan Kumer, Regional Vice President of Development for Marriott International in CALA, added, "These new hotel signings are a testament to the trust our owners and franchisees place in Marriott International." He highlighted Brazil as a critical growth market and indicated the company’s focus on expanding its affordable midscale offerings.

Tarcysio Malheiros, Director of FÁBRICA DE HOTÉIS, noted that "hospitality is a driver of development" and emphasized the potential of the new hotels to connect a global brand with the region's economic opportunities.

The seven newly signed hotels will contribute over 750 guest rooms across key growth destinations in Northeast Brazil, reinforcing Marriott's commitment to expanding access to quality accommodations in this emerging market. Specific locations include:

Further expansions are anticipated along the coastal area of Cabo de Santo Agostinho and in other regions, with openings expected by 2029. This strategic growth reflects the increasing economic and tourism activities in Brazil’s Northeast region.

City Express by Marriott, which joined the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio in 2023, is designed to meet the needs of cost-conscious business and leisure travelers. The brand focuses on providing modern, comfortable, and centrally located accommodations that cater to the needs of a diverse clientele, ensuring that guests experience seamless and efficient stays.

Marriott International’s expansion of the City Express brand into Brazil represents a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy within the CALA region. By establishing new properties and enhancing its portfolio in the affordable midscale segment, Marriott is not just investing in its future but also contributing to the economic development and tourism growth of Northeast Brazil. The collaboration with FÁBRICA DE HOTÉIS exemplifies a commitment to delivering quality experiences while supporting local economies.