Banyan Group, a prominent independent global hospitality leader, has officially announced a strategic partnership with Cape Town-based Newmark Hotels & Reserves. The deal involves Banyan Group acquiring a majority stake in Newmark through a phased ownership structure, eventually leading to full integration.
This move marks a significant expansion for Banyan Group, adding the “Newmark Collection” to its existing portfolio. Newmark currently manages 26 properties, including hotels, lodges, and wildlife reserves, spanning seven African nations—Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
The partnership is designed to combine the regional, on-the-ground expertise of Newmark with the vast international distribution, commercial power, and development capabilities of the Banyan Group. Under the terms of the agreement, Newmark will retain its own brand identity, management team, and localized operating approach. This decision aims to preserve the deep-rooted relationships and market-specific knowledge that have been central to Newmark’s growth since its inception in 2007 by founder Neil Markovitz.
“We welcome Newmark to Banyan Group with confidence in the strength of the business it has built in Africa,” said Ho Kwon Ping, Founder and Executive Chairman of Banyan Group. “We see in Newmark many of the qualities that shaped Banyan Group from the beginning: independence of thought, a long-term view, and the conviction to build something distinctive.”
For Banyan Group, the acquisition is a calculated step into one of the world’s most dynamic tourism markets. With Africa seeing an 8% year-on-year increase in international tourist arrivals, reaching 81 million in 2025, the region is a priority for the group’s long-term growth. The addition of Newmark grows Banyan Group’s global presence to nearly 130 hotels, resorts, and reserves across 28 countries.
Neil Markovitz expressed enthusiasm for the new chapter, noting that the partnership provides Newmark with a wider global network while allowing it to maintain the integrity of its curated portfolio. “Joining Banyan Group gives us greater international reach and access to a wider network of expertise while retaining what has made Newmark successful,” Markovitz said.
From a guest perspective, operations will remain consistent for now, with existing reservations honored under current terms. As the integration progresses, Newmark properties will eventually be integrated into Banyan Group’s booking platforms and its “withBanyan” guest recognition program, allowing members to access benefits across an even wider array of destinations.
The deal is seen as a major milestone for both entities, blending Banyan Group’s commitment to “naturally luxurious” hospitality with Newmark’s established prowess in urban, nature-based, and wildlife-focused tourism. As the travel sector across Africa continues its rapid trajectory, the union is poised to offer travelers enhanced connectivity and a broader range of sustainable, high-end experiences across the continent.
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