Global brand valuation consultancy Brand Finance reports that the combined brand value of Chinese hotel brands ranked this year stands at US$2.56 billion.
Per the recently released Hotel 50 2025 report, this year’s total value reflects a year-on-year decline of 19 percent from 2024.
Three of the four Chinese hotel brands featured in this year’s rankings saw a drop in their brand value, amid ongoing economic uncertainty.
The shift to hybrid work has reshaped corporate travel, which now tends to be less frequent but longer, combining meetings, events, and training into extended trips.
According to Brand Finance China managing director Scott Chen: “Even with ongoing economic pressures, Chinese hotel brands continue to make their mark globally. Shangri-La remains a symbol of trusted, premium hospitality, not just as China’s most valuable hotel brand, but also the strongest. Meanwhile, JI Hotel’s growth reflects a growing preference among travellers for comfort, familiarity, and reliability. As travel habits evolve and international movement picks up again, China’s hotel brands are well-positioned to continue expanding their global presence.”
Shangri-La still at the top, but Ji Hotels moving up
Shangri-La retains its position as China’s most valuable hotel brand in 2025, and as the fifth most valuable hotel brand ranked globally.
Despite the 23 percent decline in value, the brand has returned to pre-pandemic profitability, with margins exceeding historic levels.
Its expansion strategy includes dual-brand concepts and mixed-use developments, with recent openings in Shenzhen and Kunming and further launches planned across mainland China.
Shangri-La also claims the title of China’s strongest hotel brand in the rankings with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 80.8/100.
Additionally, the brand ranks as the fourth most valuable in the global Luxury Hotels 2025 sub-ranking.
Meanwhile Ji Hotel’s brand value rose by 12 percent to US$423.5 million, making it the fastest growing Chinese hotel brand in this year's rankings.
According to Brand Finance’s research data, the brand’s strong performance is driven by high familiarity and preference among Chinese consumers, who consistently view it as a top choice.
