Tru Brand Debuts in Asia as Hilton Transforms Vietnam Hotel Scene with Bold Midscale Expansion
Nikhil Prasad 
Hotel News: Hilton is making major waves in the Asia Pacific hospitality sector once again—this time not with a high-end luxury brand, but with a vibrant midscale offering set to reshape Vietnam’s hotel landscape. Following on the heels of its recent splashy announcement of the NoMad brand’s arrival in Singapore, Hilton has confirmed the debut of its Tru by Hilton brand in Asia, starting with Vietnam as the springboard for what it hopes will be a regional expansion success.
Image Credit: Hilton Hotels
This Hotel News report highlights that Tru by Hilton will officially launch with four new properties scheduled to open by the end of 2025. These form the first phase of a broader plan to roll out 14 Tru by Hilton hotels across Vietnam through a strategic partnership with the local powerhouse ROX Group, formerly known as TNG Holdings Vietnam. The agreement will see the transformation of the existing SOJO Hotels portfolio—a local midscale brand under TNH Hotels & Resorts—into Tru by Hilton hotels. It’s a significant move targeting a rapidly expanding demographic of value-driven, experience-seeking travelers, both domestic and international.
A Midscale Brand with Global Momentum
Already a successful player in Latin America, where Tru by Hilton has made its mark in countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia, the brand’s entrance into Asia represents a calculated response to a market gap. According to Hilton Asia Pacific President Alan Watts, “Vietnam is emerging as one of Asia’s premier travel destinations, underpinned by rapidly growing domestic demand and rising international arrivals. Tru by Hilton addresses a gap in the market—bringing an energetic and playful brand to 14 cities in Vietnam.”
The Tru experience is designed to be young, fun, and smart. Guests can expect contemporary design with clean lines, open spaces, and a social atmosphere. Signature amenities include the “Top It” breakfast bar offering customizable options with items like Vietnamese dumplings, a 24/7 snack and drink market, high-speed Wi-Fi, modern fitness centres, and interactive social spaces for games and gatherings.
First Openings Set to Energize Key Cities
The inaugural batch of Tru by Hilton hotels includes properties in Hanoi, Ha Long, Lang Son, and Nam Dinh. Tru by Hilton Hanoi Station will boast 129 rooms within walking distance of Hoan Kiem Lake and the bustling Old Quarter. Meanwhile, the Ha Long hotel will position guests near the scenic bay and seafood havens. Lang Son and Nam Dinh represent Hilton’s ambition to tap into Vietnam’s emerging city destinations, offering both business and leisure travelers quality accommodation at accessible prices.
These hotels are also fully integrated into Hilton Honors, enabling guests to benefit from digital conveniences such as contactless check-in and keyless room entry via the Hilton Honors mobile app.
Vietnam Tourism Surges as Hilton Expands Its Footprint
Vietnam’s tourism revival is unmistakable. According to recent data, the country recorded a 10.5% increase in tourist arrivals in Q1 2025 compared to the previous year. The growth has been driven by both domestic mobility and renewed interest from international markets. Hilton’s latest move—boosting its total pipeline in the country to 28 hotels—signals deep confidence in Vietnam’s tourism trajectory.
ROX Group Vice President and CEO Xuan Quang Tran remarked, “Our partnership with Hilton to bring 14 Tru by Hilton hotels to Vietnam is a testament to the country’s vibrant tourism market and immense potential.”
A Bold Move That Reflects Market Shifts
By converting SOJO Hotels into Tru by Hilton properties, Hilton is not just rebranding—it’s redefining what midscale hospitality means in Asia. The rollout across 14 cities including Da Nang, Can Tho, Lao Cai, and Bac Giang, aims to make international-standard comfort more widely accessible, especially in secondary and tertiary markets. This move complements Hilton’s existing luxury and upscale brands in Vietnam, including Curio Collection by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn.
The broader message is clear—Hilton is investing in the future of Asian travel not just at the top end of the market, but across the entire spectrum. Tru by Hilton’s expansion is not just a hotel launch; it’s a strategic bet on how younger, savvier travelers are reshaping travel preferences across Asia.
This bold entry of Tru by Hilton into Asia via Vietnam shows Hilton’s adaptability and vision in recognizing emerging market trends. With modern amenities, a strong local partner, and a sharp focus on guest experience, the brand is poised to become a staple in the region’s evolving midscale segment. For travelers, investors, and competitors alike, this marks the beginning of a new chapter in Hilton’s Asia Pacific story.
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