Celebrating a century of success, influence, and groundbreaking innovation, the World Travel & Tourism Council praises Hilton for its remarkable contributions to the industry.

Hilton Celebrates a Century of Innovation and Growth

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has recognised Hilton for its significant contributions to the travel industry over the past century. As the current CEO of Hilton, Chris Nassetta, has led the company through one of its strongest growth periods in history.

Hilton's journey began in 1919 when Conrad Hilton acquired The Mobley Hotel in Texas, marking the first property in Hilton's collection. Since then, the company has expanded exponentially, now spanning 5,600 hotels and 17 brands across 113 countries and territories.

One of Hilton's earliest innovations was the introduction of televisions in guestrooms, a groundbreaking development at the time. The company also popularised room service, making it a staple of the modern hotel experience. In 1967, Hilton made history by opening the first underwater suite, offering guests an unparalleled level of luxury.

In 1973, Hilton introduced a 100% satisfaction guarantee, demonstrating their commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience. The company also developed a multi-hotel reservation system, simplifying the booking process for travellers.

Hilton's current leadership, Chris Nassetta, has shown a commitment to the global Travel & Tourism sector. He currently serves as the Chairman of WTTC, a role he assumed in 2020. Under his leadership, Hilton has continued to innovate and develop the guest experience, as well as contribute to the wider industry.

To celebrate its 100-year anniversary, Hilton marked the occasion by opening over 150 luxury and lifestyle hotels in 2025. While specific celebratory events for the centennial are not detailed in the available sources, it's clear that Hilton's commitment to excellence and innovation shows no signs of waning.

The WTTC has congratulated Hilton on its 100th birthday, commending the company for its continued innovation and hard work in developing the guest experience and the wider industry. Hilton has been a Member of the World Travel & Tourism Council for over 20 years, a testament to their dedication to the sector.

As Hilton looks towards the future, it's clear that the company's legacy of innovation and excellence will continue to shape the travel industry for years to come.

Celebrating a century of success, influence, and groundbreaking innovation, the World Travel & Tourism Council praises Hilton for its remarkable contributions to the industry.