The hotel workers union UNITE HERE, has applauded the prospect of a major new player in the worldwide
hospitality industry with Blackstone’s acquisition of Hilton Hotels Corp.“We welcome this combination,” said Bruce Raynor, General President of
UNITE HERE, which represents over 100,000 hotel workers throughout North
America. “We enjoy a positive partnership with Hilton Hotels. And, for its
part, Blackstone has demonstrated its commitment to fair treatment for
thousands of hotel workers in several major markets. This combination is
good news for the workers of what will be the largest hotel owner in the
world.”
  Following major labor negotiations with Hilton in several markets
during 2006, UNITE HERE and Hilton entered into a “partnership for growth.”
The partnership focused on improving the company’s operations while also
rewarding Hilton employees. Blackstone in turn has taken a positive
approach to labor relations in numerous instances over the past two years
since it has greatly increased its ownership of hotels.
  “For the thousands of housekeepers, bellpersons, banquet staff, waiters
and waitresses affected by this transaction, we are encouraged that two
responsible actors are coming together in a historic transaction that
creates the largest hotel owner in North America,” said John Wilhelm, UNITE
HERE’s President/Hospitality Industry. “We look forward to UNITE HERE 275
Seventh Avenue, New York, NY (212) 265-7000 working with Hilton management
and Blackstone ownership to deepen our relationship and continue to build a
successful and responsible company.”
——-