Memphis Moves to Buy Sheraton Hotel for $22 Million in Effort to Boost Tourism and Convention Appeal

Memphis Aims to Reshape Its Future with Sheraton Purchase

Memphis is at a crucial juncture, facing both opportunity and challenge as it moves forward with a plan to buy the Sheraton Memphis Downtown Hotel for $22 million. The announcement made by Mayor Paul Young has stirred reactions from all corners, with some expressing skepticism and others outright opposition. Despite the negativity, many believe this step is essential for the city’s long-term ambitions in tourism and convention business.

For years, the Sheraton has been a concern for city officials. Its subpar condition has cast a shadow over Memphis’s significant investment of $200 million in the revamped Renasant Convention Center. Mayor Young likens the situation to being at a “tipping point,” but frankly, the Sheraton has already begun its downward spiral. Known as a third-tier convention city, Memphis has struggled to attract substantial events without a quality hotel option. This purchase is not just about owning a hotel; it’s about creating a first-class experience that will lure conventions and tourists alike.

According to recent data, the economic impact of the convention center has seen some promising figures, increasing to $63.1 million from a total of 421 events, yielding 97,722 hotel room bookings. Yet, to elevate Memphis to the next tier, the city needs a hotel that can match the upgraded convention center’s standards. Currently, the Sheraton, now 39 years old, stands at an occupancy rate of just 36%. In simpler terms, two out of three rooms are empty on average—hardly a promising scenario for a city vying to grow its tourist appeal.

Past Efforts and Future Plans

City officials have attempted for over a decade to collaborate with the hotel’s current owners to improve conditions and make it a more competitive lodging option. Unfortunately, those efforts have stalled, driving Memphis to the brink of a crisis. The hotel was recently purchased by Starwood Capital Group, which planned significant renovations but never proceeded. Now, with plans for other hotels, like the Loews Hotel and Grand Hyatt, falling through, the pressure is even more significant for the Sheraton to step up.

The proposed deal would not just save the Sheraton from further decline; it could lead to a rebranding under a more sought-after flag. Developers who have stepped into the mix include seasoned entrepreneurs like Chance Carlisle of the Carlisle Corporation, along with Carolyn Hardy and Tyrone Burroughs, who have a solid track record in Memphis. Their combined expertise might suggest a shift towards a brand like Hyatt, aligning Memphis with top-tier hospitality standards.

Navigating the Risks

The crux of this deal is whether the city buys the hotel and modernizes it or watches it further decline. Memphis has little choice since the current owners are attempting to sell—and rumored to auction off—what many see as a distressed asset. The risk of inaction could result in Memphis losing its chance at a quality convention hotel, ultimately impacting the whole downtown area’s vibrancy.

Mayor Young has outlined a five-step plan for handling the Sheraton purchase: from securing the purchase using lower interest bonds to selling it later at market value to a nonprofit with operational experience. This strategy aims to ensure a smooth transition while retaining local involvement in its operation and development.

Expert Opinions

Industry experts, like Chuck Pinkowski, stress the value of city ownership. He believes it’s the most logical route since few major hotel companies are willing to invest in the aging structure. Pinkowski warns that if the city doesn’t seize this opportunity, it risks sending a message of defeat regarding downtown revitalization.

Critically, the Sheraton’s fate reflects broader themes of ambition and opportunity in Memphis. If this plan succeeds, it could signal a revitalization not just for the hotel but for the city as a whole, impacting tourism and business in a lasting way. The choice is clear: invest in the future of Memphis or allow past missteps to hinder potential progress.

As the city prepares to make decisions on this $22 million investment, eyes will be on them. The actions they take now will reshape Memphis’s reputation in the convention sphere. It’s a challenging road ahead, but with bold moves and community support, Memphis can hope to transform its downtown landscape.