A new short documentary, The Patel Motel Story, shines a spotlight on how South Asian immigrants—especially from Gujarat—came to dominate the large share of America’s motel and hotel industry through grit, community support, and strategic reinvestment.
From Gujarat to the Roadside: The Origins
In the mid-20th century, an undocumented Gujarati immigrant named Kanjibhai Desai purchased a modest residential hotel in San Francisco after its prior owner, a Japanese American, was relocated during World War II. From this low-budget establishment, he began helping fellow immigrants by offering lodging and teaching them how to acquire motels themselves. Over time, this small act of support sparked a network of entrepreneurs.
The Immigration Shift & Motel Boom
The 1965 U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act created new pathways for immigrants who invested in businesses. Many Gujarati newcomers, limited in capital and unfamiliar with the restaurant business (especially given dietary practices), turned to roadside motels. These motels were often overlooked by larger investors, making them ripe opportunities for low-cost acquisition and hands-on management.
Growth Through Family, Frugality & Networks
Patel motel owners often ran their operations with family labor, doing everything from cleaning rooms to managing accounts. Instead of hiring external staff, they kept costs low and reinvested profits. Informal loans, mentorship, and community backing helped new entrants enter the motel business. Clusters of motels owned by related or connected individuals emerged across regions.
Over time, many Patel operators moved from budget motels to branded properties under major hotel chains (e.g. Hampton Inn, Marriott affiliates, Holiday Inn). With scale, they modernized operations, adopted technology, and leveraged synergies between nearby properties.
Challenges & Resistance
These hoteliers faced racial prejudice, language barriers, and discrimination. At times, properties would hire a white front-desk clerk to ease guest concerns. Despite the obstacles, the Patel motel owners persevered, building reputations for reliability and value.
Impact & Legacy
Today, Indian Americans own a significant portion of the U.S. motel and hotel market. The Patel motel story is often described as one of the most under-recognized immigrant success stories in American business. The Patel Motel Story documentary brings this narrative to the screen, weaving the personal and structural forces behind the phenomenon.
