Macfarlanes advises Rocco Forte Hotels on sale of minority stake to The Public Investment Fund

18 January 2024

Macfarlanes has advised Rocco Forte Hotels on the terms of the sale of a significant minority stake to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.

The Forte family retains majority ownership and control, while Italian investor, CDPE Investimenti, has sold its entire stake. 

Rocco Forte Hotels operate 14 hotels and resorts, as well as 20 private villas, including some of Europe’s most iconic properties. A further three hotels are due to open in 2024 and 2025.

PIF is one of the largest sovereign wealth funds in the world and its investment includes an element of primary equity which will accelerate the brand’s expansion in new and existing markets globally, building on the Rocco Forte Hotels record of growth and development.

The Macfarlanes team was led by corporate and M&A partner Justin Hope, with assistance from partner Howard Corney, senior associate Andrew Wheelhouse and associate Isabel Hazelton. Tax and reward advice was provided by partners Sarah Shucksmith and Rasmus Berglund, senior associate Mark Petch and associate Sam Wilson.