Hilton to enter all-inclusive market

Hilton International is to launch a new brand, Coral by Hilton, under an agreement with Coral Hotels & Resorts in the Dominican Republic.

Hilton will invest more than $2.5m (£1.57m) in re-branding four Coral properties. This will involve installing Hilton's marketing and booking systems, and changing signs and uniforms.

Daniel Hughes, vice-president of operations for Hilton in the Caribbean, said the deal gave Hilton International its first foothold in the all-inclusive resort market and gave Coral the benefit of Hilton's worldwide marketing network.

The Canoa Beach Resort & Spa, Costa Caribe Beach Resort & Casino, Hamaca Beach Resort & Casino, and Mariem Beach Resort & Spa will continue trading while the changes are made over the next three months. They will still be owned and operated by Coral Hotels & Resorts.

Hilton International is looking for other all-inclusive resorts to re-brand, and opportunities to build new Coral by Hilton resorts throughout the Caribbean.