Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. to Acquire JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa for $865 Million

Core Viewpoint - Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. has announced a definitive agreement to acquire the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa for $865 million, which is expected to enhance long-term customer and shareholder value [1][2]. Acquisition Details - The acquisition price of $865 million represents a 12.7x Adjusted EBITDAre multiple based on the property's 2024 results [1]. - The acquisition is anticipated to be accretive to Adjusted FFO per fully diluted share for the year 2026 [1]. - The transaction is expected to close in the second or third quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions [4]. Property Overview - JW Marriott Desert Ridge is situated on approximately 402 acres and features 950 guest rooms, including 81 suites, and around 243,000 square feet of meeting and event space [3]. - The resort includes amenities such as a 28,000-square-foot spa, seven dining options, a large water amenity, and two golf courses [3]. - The property has recently undergone nearly $100 million in capital investments, enhancing its facilities and guest experience [3]. Market Context - Phoenix is a top 10 meetings market in North America, with strong leisure demand and no new competitive supply under development [4]. - The city is served by Phoenix-Sky Harbor Airport, which is the 14th busiest in the U.S. and has plans for further expansion [4]. Strategic Fit - The acquisition aligns with the company's strategy to expand its portfolio of group-focused assets and is expected to create operating synergies with existing properties [2][3]. - The company has expressed confidence in the strength of forward bookings and the durability of its group business model, citing previous successful acquisitions [2].