Jerusalem Hilton Cuts Ties With Hilton Chain

JERUSALEM—The Jerusalem Hilton plans to disassociate itself from the Hilton chain due to a long-running dispute with the Hilton International management company, Reuters reported. The hotel cited alleged material breaches of the existing management agreement by London-based Hilton International, a subsidiary of Britains Hilton Group Plc, as the main reason for cutting ties with the chain. Norman Rafelson, general manager of the Jerusalem Hilton, said the hotel was in talks with other management companies and expected to become part of a new hotel chain within a few weeks. However, a Hilton spokeswoman told Reuters, “We are seeking full enforcement of the management agreement; we believe (Hilton Jerusalems owner) just cant cancel a management agreement.” The spokesperson added that Hilton “will protect [its]rights by exercising all legal means.” The Jerusalem Hilton is owned by Israeli business executive Alfred Akirov. Akirov has a management contract with Hilton International until 2018 with an option for another 10 years. SOURCE: Reuters