RLJ Lodging Trust RLJ

Company Overview

RLJ Lodging Trust is a publicly traded real estate investment trust (REIT) focused primarily on owning premium-branded, rooms-oriented hotels in the United States. The company operates within the lodging and hospitality real estate sectors and derives most of its revenue from hotel operations, including room rentals, food and beverage sales, parking, and ancillary guest services generated through properties managed by third-party hotel operators. RLJ’s portfolio has historically emphasized urban, high-barrier-to-entry markets and demand centers supported by business travel, leisure travel, and group demand.

The company was founded in 2000 by Robert L. Johnson and became publicly traded in 2011. RLJ expanded significantly through acquisitions and portfolio consolidation, including the acquisition of FelCor Lodging Trust in 2017, which materially increased its scale and geographic reach. RLJ’s strategy has centered on owning premium-branded hotels affiliated with major global hotel companies such as Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt, providing access to established reservation systems, loyalty programs, and operational standards.