Marriott International has announced that it has received regulatory approval from Mexico’s Federal Economic Competition Commission (COFECE) for the deal involving the City Express brand. The acquisition of the brand portfolio from Hoteles City Express will pave the way for Marriott’s entry into the affordable midscale segment.

The acquisition was originally announced in October 2022 and could be closed as soon as Q2 2023. However, it is still subject to the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

Marriott will acquire the brand’s portfolio, which includes City Express, City Express Plus, City Express Suites, City Express Junior, and City Centro, upon closing of the transaction. The City Express brand portfolio represents approximately 150 hotels totalling around 17,000 rooms in more than 70 cities in Mexico and three Latin American countries.

Once completed, City Express will become Marriott’s 31st brand. Its sub-brands will join Marriott’s franchise system and are expected to be updated with the “by Marriott” endorsement. The deal will make Marriott the largest hotel company in the Caribbean and Latin America region with over 480 properties across 37 countries.

The regulatory approval of the transaction is a significant milestone in the closing process. We’re thrilled about entering the appealing midscale lodging category and offering customers even more choice in the destinations they seek for both business and leisure stays.

Brian King, President of Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) at Marriott International