SÃO PAULO–(January 28, 2016)–Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) and Atlantica Hotels announced today the signing of an exclusive management license agreement for Atlantica to develop and manage Hilton Garden Inn hotels in Brazil. The announcement underscores the continued momentum of the award-winning upper midscale Hilton Garden Inn brand into new markets and tourism destinations throughout the region, including recently opened hotels in Montevideo, Uruguay and Cusco, Peru.

“Brazil is the largest economy in South America and provides great potential for growth. We are excited to introduce the Hilton Garden Inn brand to this booming market,” said Ted Middleton, senior vice president, development, Latin America, Hilton Worldwide. “The partnership with Atlantica represents a great milestone for Hilton as their experienced and knowledgeable team will help drive our growth efforts throughout the country.”

“It is an honor for Atlantica to partner with Hilton Worldwide, one of the largest hospitality companies in the world, to develop the Hilton Garden Inn brand in Brazil,” said Paul J. Sistare, founder and CEO of Atlantica Hotels. “This partnership will allow us to expand our portfolio in all Brazilian regions, as we plan to develop at least ten Hilton Garden Inn hotels in the main capitals, as well as the biggest secondary cities, offering quality services to our guests, linked to the brand’s values.”

The Hilton Garden Inn brand will join Atlantica’s portfolio of more than 12 brands represented by 85 hotels in Brazil and a sales force of more than 150 executives. The company has been in the hospitality industry since 1996, and established itself as a leader through innovation and strategic alliances.

“Atlantica’s expertise and the Hilton Garden Inn brand’s market positioning provide an attractive option for local investors,” said Sistare. “The entrance of the new brand will support Atlantica in accomplishing its plan to reach 100 hotels in the first semester of 2016.”

As part of the Hilton Worldwide portfolio of brands, all Hilton Garden Inn hotels participate in Hilton HHonors, the only hotel loyalty program that allows members to earn Points & Miles® on the same stay and No Blackout Dates on reward stays. HHonors members always get the lowest price with the Best Price Guarantee, along with HHonors Points, digital check-in and no booking fees only when they book directly through Hilton.

Hilton Worldwide currently has a portfolio of more than 80 hotels and resorts open and welcoming travelers in Latin America and more than 4,500 hotels open in 100 countries and territories globally. The company is actively pursuing additional Latin American growth opportunities and currently has a robust pipeline of more than 50 hotels throughout the region.

For more Information about the award-winning Hilton Garden Inn brand, please visit www.hiltongardeninn.com or www.news.hgi.com.

*Photographed from left to right: Eduardo Rodriguez Suarez, managing director, development – Brazil & the Southern Cone, Hilton Worldwide; Paul J. Sistare, founder and CEO of Atlantica Hotels; Ted Middleton, senior vice president, development – Latin America, Hilton Worldwide; and Ricardo Bluvol, vice president development, Atlantica Hotels.