Hilton Worldwide (NYSE:HLT) is a global hospitality company that develops, owns, manages and franchises a broad portfolio of hotels and resorts. Its business spans full-service luxury and lifestyle properties, select- and focused-service hotels, and extended-stay accommodations. The company generates revenue through management and franchise fees, owned and leased real estate, and guest services, and supports customer retention and direct bookings through its Hilton Honors guest loyalty program.
Hilton's brand portfolio includes internationally recognized names across the lodging spectrum, from luxury and upper-upscale brands to midscale and extended-stay offerings. The company provides a range of services for leisure and corporate travelers, meeting and event planners, and third-party owners, including property and asset management, marketing and distribution, brand standards and operational support. Its business model emphasizes franchising and management agreements, supplemented by selective ownership of hotel real estate.
Founded by Conrad Hilton in 1919, the company has evolved into a multinational hospitality operator headquartered in McLean, Virginia. In the 21st century Hilton experienced ownership and structural changes, including a private acquisition and later public listing, and subsequently separated its timeshare business into the independent Hilton Grand Vacations. Christopher J. Nassetta has served as chief executive officer and a leading executive voice for the company in recent years. Hilton operates and franchises properties across multiple regions worldwide, serving markets in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region.
