An affiliate of KSL Capital has acquired a majority interest in Sereno, an owner-operator of ultra-luxury hotels.
Sereno Hotels – the owner-operator of ultra-luxury hotel Il Sereno in Lake Como and its sister resort, Le Sereno on the island of St. Barthelemy – says the deal with KSL will allow it to accelerate its growth strategy.
Sereno Hotels was founded over twenty years ago by the Contreras family and the family will remain significant investors in company. Luis Contreras, Sereno’s founder & CEO will remain at the helm.
Why it matters
KSL’s investment further indicates the attractiveness for the luxury and ultra-luxury segment, which has continued to perform exceptionally post-pandemic and therefore continues to attract investment interest.
Italy’s hotel market is also characterised by the dominance of family owner-operators, and experts in the Italian market stress that partnerships between Italian operators and international stakeholders could be greatly beneficial to both parties. KSL Capital's decision to invest in Sereno suggests major investors are recognizing the untapped potential.
What they said
Luis Contreras, Sereno’s founder and CEO said: “Our joint vision is to create a select few new small and supremely luxurious hotels in unique locations, featuring remarkable design, meticulous detail, and casual yet professional, bespoke services for our guests. With KSL’s strategic advice and financial support, we aim to offer our guests, and our team, exciting new experiences and prospects.”
Martin Edsinger, principal at KSL Capital Partners added: “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with Luis and the Contreras family for the next journey of growth for this remarkable business. At KSL, we seek to invest in the unforgettable to create the enduring, something which is core to Sereno’s mission. What Luis and his family have created is unparalleled, and we could not be more excited about what the future will bring for Sereno and to work with a partner that shares our vision and values.”