Asian Hotels Alliance merger forms world's largest independent group

From January 1, 2007 the Asian Hotels Alliance (AHA) will merge with GHA, bringing Dusit Hotels & Resorts, Landis Hotels & Resorts, and Marco Polo Hotels into the GHA group. The move sees GHA further strengthen its position as the world's largest alliance of independent and individual hotel brands. The organisation is in negotiations with Meritus Hotels and Resorts and New Otani Hotels. The group has given them the option to join GHA during the next 12 months. The AHA was launched in 2002 and is made up of five of Asia's most respected hotel groups. GHA's CEO Chris Hartley said: "It's great news to merge with such a likeminded organisation as AHA. "Asia is home to the world's largest emerging markets and this merger gives GHA superb coverage on a continent that is becoming increasingly important for our business." Jeffrey Flowers, president of Marco Polo Hotels, said: "By joining GHA, Marco Polo will be able to compete more effectively for international business. "Meeting planners will be able to view a wealth of destination and hotel-specific information, as well as plan and book meeting packages at more than 180 GHA member hotels via the alliance's website." Based in Geneva, GHA is now a fully incorporated company. It plans to further expand its membership of 186 luxury hotels and resorts.