Gravity Capital Replaces VZB in Grand Metropolitan Hotels Joint Venture

The takeover follows Kingstone Capital’s exit from the joint venture and the subsequent acquisition of its UAE subsidiary by Gravity Capital. This shift fundamentally alters the Dutch entity, which has lost its right to the Grand Metropolitan brand and will now operate as Gravity Hospitality Holding. The transition includes a full turnover of the company’s former board and management team.

Martin R. Smura, founder and chairman of Grand Metropolitan Hotels, described the split as a necessary resolution to a partnership that had become paralyzed by irreconcilable shareholder disagreements. Despite failed attempts to negotiate a mutual buyout or a capital increase, the group is now pivoting toward an independent growth strategy. Kingstone Capital AG remains a strategic investor, continuing its support for the group’s expansion outside the defunct joint venture framework.

Following the rebranding, Gravity Capital has integrated hospitality technology firms including Genesis AI, Room Hub, and Xenios into its portfolio. Meanwhile, Grand Metropolitan Hotels is shifting its focus back to an asset-light model, emphasizing branding and franchising. The group is currently in exclusive negotiations to acquire another business in the hotel affiliation sector, with a formal announcement expected in September 2026.