Pestana Hotel Group Enters Global Top-100, Elevating Portugal’s Tourism Prestige
Funchal, Portugal – In a milestone achievement for Portuguese hospitality, the Pestana Hotel Group has officially joined the Top 100 global hotel chains, securing the 96th position in the prestigious annual Hotels Magazine rankings. This accomplishment makes Pestana the only Portuguese brand to be featured among the world’s top hotel groups, a reflection of both its brand strength and the growing prominence of Portugal in the global tourism industry.
Impressive Growth and Global Footprint
Between 2023 and 2024, Pestana expanded its operations with the addition of a new property and 35 extra rooms. This growth increased the company’s portfolio to 109 hotels and 12,041 rooms worldwide. Such steady expansion propelled the group nine places higher in the global rankings—from 105th in the previous year to 96th in the latest list—highlighting its consistent upward trajectory and strategic focus on scaling operations while maintaining quality.
This expansion also demonstrates the group’s adaptability and resilience in an ever-competitive hospitality market, where innovation, service excellence, and diversification play critical roles in success.
Regional and Continental Leadership
Alongside its global ranking, Pestana continues to dominate the Iberian hospitality landscape. It is now recognized as the 4th largest hotel chain in the Iberian Peninsula and ranks 13th across Europe, solidifying its influence and market share within the region. These positions showcase the group’s ability to merge international ambition with strong domestic performance.
Heritage of Expansion and Diversity
Founded in 1972 in the scenic island of Madeira, the Pestana Hotel Group has evolved from a local family business into Portugal’s largest multinational hospitality chain. Today, it operates in 16 countries across three continents—Europe, Africa, and the Americas—offering a diverse range of accommodations under its four key brands: Pestana Hotels & Resorts, Pestana Collection Hotels, Pousadas de Portugal, and Pestana CR7 Lifestyle Hotels.
With over 100 hotels and more than 12,000 rooms, the group welcomes millions of guests every year, appealing to travelers seeking experiences that range from luxury beachfront resorts to culturally rich city stays.
Boosting Portugal’s Tourism Sector
Portugal continues to thrive as a leading global tourism destination, welcoming nearly 29 million international visitors in 2024. Popular regions such as Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and Madeira have all benefited from Pestana’s presence, with the hotel group contributing to increased visitor arrivals and longer stays.
Pestana’s international recognition not only enhances Portugal’s tourism profile but also stimulates economic growth, particularly by creating local jobs, supporting regional development, and increasing the country’s visibility on the global stage. The group’s properties offer authentic and memorable experiences, blending comfort with local culture, and play a key role in promoting Portugal as a must-visit destination.
Commitment to Sustainability, Quality, and Innovation
Pestana’s rise in the global rankings is fueled not just by its size but by its commitment to quality and sustainability. Through its “Planet Guest” initiative, the group implements eco-friendly operations across its properties, from energy-efficient systems to waste-reduction programs, ensuring that environmental stewardship remains central to its growth strategy.
Moreover, Pestana continuously invests in modernizing its portfolio and innovating its offerings to meet evolving market demands. By embracing emerging trends such as wellness tourism, eco-tourism, and cultural travel experiences, the group is appealing to a broader spectrum of international travelers. This ability to adapt while maintaining consistent service standards sets Pestana apart from its competitors.
Financial Resilience and Strong Performance
Pestana’s growth is underpinned by a solid financial foundation. In 2023, the group achieved record sales of €457.1 million, with an EBITDA of €146 million and a margin close to 32 percent. In 2024, the EBITDA rose to €147.1 million, driven by strategic expansion and robust demand. The company has also succeeded in reducing its debt levels, earning a credit rating upgrade from “BBB” to “BBB+”, a testament to its financial health and operational efficiency.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Portuguese Hospitality
As Pestana continues to expand and innovate, the future of Portuguese hospitality looks even brighter. The recognition in the global Top 100 underscores the group’s ability to maintain excellence while scaling operations internationally. Travelers can expect a growing portfolio of destinations that combine high-quality service, unique experiences, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
This milestone is more than just an accolade for the group—it’s a point of pride for Portugal, showcasing the country’s ability to produce world-class brands that compete with the best in the global tourism market. Whether serving domestic travelers exploring their own country or international tourists seeking authentic experiences, Pestana Hotel Group is well-positioned to deliver exceptional stays across the globe.
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