Highgate Hotels vs OYO: Battle for Times Square Hotel Rages On
A fierce battle for control of a Times Square hotel has erupted between two major players in the hospitality industry.
The fight for the management of a 208-room hotel in the heart of Times Square has turned into a full-blown war between Highgate Hotels and OYO. The outcome of this showdown not only affects the fate of the property, but also the jobs of more than two dozen unionized workers.
According to Crain's, Highgate Hotels is suing to prevent OYO from terminating their contract to run the OYO Times Square at 157 West 47th Street. The Manhattan-based operator claims they were caught off guard when OYO issued a notice on August 1st, cancelling the deal four years before its scheduled end. OYO cited issues with a different property as the reason for the termination.
"Bizarre" is how Highgate describes OYO's move, and they warn that it would be a violation of state law. However, OYO seems determined to take over the management of the Times Square hotel, putting Highgate's future with the property in jeopardy.
The battle between these two hotel heavyweights highlights the cutthroat nature of the industry and the lengths companies will go to gain control of prime properties. As the fight continues to escalate, it remains to be seen who will come out on top.
Originally reported by The Real Deal.
https://therealdeal.com/new-york/2025/09/30/oyo-highgate-square-off-in-times-square-hotel-showdown/