I can see their logic, to be honest. It is very difficult to launch a new high end property these days with no recognised chain name on the door, especially in London where there is plenty of competition and another high end property is not exactly news.

They are probably working with everyone they can to drive bookings. If the property has legs and guests come back, logically they would pull back on the partnerships as they will be able to fill the rooms with guests who book direct and cut back on their commission payments.