
Staff Reports | Business & Commerce
Plaza Companies is expanding its presence in the hospitality industry with the formation of a new arm of the business to pursue hotel and lodging projects.
The new division will build off Plaza’s success with mixed-use, office, bioscience, medical, and senior living properties, and comes on the heels of a Hilton hotels product at the company’s Park Central property in central Phoenix, according to a press release.
The new arm of the company is led by hotelier Dayna Castano, who joins the company as hotel development manager, the release states.
As the co-founder of Décarie Creative, Ms. Castano leverages her expertise in launching and scaling start-ups to driving revenue growth for established brands.
Under Ms. Castano’s leadership, Plaza will focus on connecting with key stakeholders who are interested in high-value hospitality properties, from established hotel chains seeking prime locations to developers looking for strategic investment opportunities.
“We are excited about the opportunities in the hospitality sector and look forward to bringing Plaza’s extensive relationships and expertise to the creation of exceptional new properties,” she said in a prepared statement. “By understanding the unique needs of each segment, the team will deliver tailored solutions that yield successful outcomes.”
Along with the Park Central hotels, Plaza Companies’ SkySong, The ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center features the Element Hotel at SkySong, which was completed and opened in 2018. The company also has a highly successful track record in the construction of resort-style senior living communities.
“Expanding our presence in the hospitality industry is a natural progression for Plaza Companies,” said Sharon Harper, chairman and CEO of the company. “We look forward to working with our partners and with some of the premier flags in the industry to create exciting new projects that will be attractive to investors and to guests.”