Originally Posted by DenverBrian

Emphasis on major company. This is protection of market share and ensuring smaller companies don't get a toehold.

Marriott, Hilton, and IHG can all make a case to a new owner interested in building/owning a hotel that they can offer "just the brand for you!" They can also offer massive reservations and points systems. Keeps the little guys like Sonesta, Red Lion, Choice, Wyndham, etc. little.