ROCKVILLE, Md., May 14, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), one of the world's largest lodging franchisors, announced robust system growth with the addition of 88 newly opened franchised properties during the first quarter of 2013. Additionally, the company has executed a total of 83 new domestic contracts within the first quarter of 2013, a 30-percent increase over the same period of the prior year.
Ascend Hotel Collection, a membership program comprised of exquisite independent hotels, continued its exceptional growth into the first quarter of 2013, with 28 new membership agreements signed compared to three membership agreements during the same time last year. Much of this growth is a direct result of Choice Hotels International's strategic marketing alliance with timeshare company Bluegreen Vacations, a relationship which enables the company to further extend the Ascend Hotel Collection portfolio into even more outstanding resort destinations.
During the first three months of 2013, openings include hotels in 28 U.S. states and 11 countries, adding more than 6,500 guestrooms to the company's existing rooms which stand at more than half a million. The Choice Hotels portfolio of franchised hotels offers business and leisure travelers a full spectrum from premium economy to upscale hotels and resorts.
"We are especially pleased by the positive reception we've seen to our upscale brands, as well as the significant traction we're gaining in major urban markets," said David Pepper, senior vice president of global development for Choice Hotels International. "Across all brands, the development environment has improved for new construction, so much so that we believe 2013 is on track to be considerably stronger than last year for franchise development."
Select properties that opened during this year's first quarter include:
Arroyo Pinion Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection - Sedona, Arizona
The stunning Red Rocks of Sedona, Arizona have colorful names like 'Thunder Mountain,' 'Lizard Head,' and 'Coffeepot,' and right across the street from these landmarks you will find the Arroyo Pinion Hotel. Guests of Arroyo Pinion, part of the Ascend Hotel Collection, will love its proximity to nature, including the world-renowned Red Rock Crossing and scenic Oak Creek Canyon, as well as the easy access to shopping in Uptown Sedona, with its impressive array of art galleries. Local eateries range from casual chic to five-star elegance and those who wish to explore Sedona's mystical vortexes will have plenty of local guides to lend a hand. Guests can also enjoy the spirit of relaxation with in-room whirlpool tubs and patios available in many rooms. Free continental breakfast and a free daily newspaper make the Arroyo Pinion a perfect spot for business and leisure travelers.
Hotel Cromwell, a Clarion Collection hotel - Stevenage, Great Britain, UK
History pairs with modern luxury at the stately Hotel Cromwell, part of the Clarion Collection portfolio of hotels, located in Stevenage, Great Britain. Converted from a farmhouse which was once home to John Thurloe, secretary to Oliver Cromwell, guests can sample the local character at the nearby Hatfield House and the splendid Knebworth House. Families will particularly enjoy the neighboring Harry Potter World, Woburn Safari Park, Whipsnade Zoo, and Paradise Wildlife Park. A visit to London is just minutes away via rail or the A1. Dining options include the elegant Oliver's Restaurant and its excellent wine list, as well as the hotel's tavern and lounge. Business and leisure travelers alike will appreciate the flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, trouser press, and tea & coffee making facilities available in each and every room.
Comfort Inn Midtown West/Manhattan - New York, NY
The brand new Comfort Inn Midtown West, located in Hell's Kitchen in Manhattan has easy access to everything New York City has to offer. Minutes away from marquee attractions including Times Square, Broadway and the Empire State Building, the hotel also is close to Central Park, 5th Avenue shopping and Rockefeller Center. Welcoming interior corridors transport you conveniently and safely to the spacious rooms. Guests - whether they're in the Big Apple for business or pleasure - will appreciate the free wireless high-speed Internet access, free in-room coffee, and a free hot and delicious breakfast featuring eggs, meat, yogurt, fresh fruit, cereal and more, including your choice of hot waffle flavors.
Clintwood Sleep Inn & Suites - Clintwood, Virginia
Travelers will rest well amidst the trees and rolling hills of southwestern Virginia at The Sleep Inn & Suites® hotel in Clintwood, Virginia. This simply stylish Designed to Dream® hotel features soft lighting and soothing, nature-oriented artwork, as well as the Sleep Inn brand's signature showers, plush bedding, large workspaces with ergonomic chairs and high-definition flat-screen televisions with cable programming. Local history is close at hand with the Ralph Stanley Museum and Dr. Phipps Family Museum located just up the road. Guests will re-energize with a workout in the on-site exercise room and keep productive at the hotel's business center.
Choice Hotels also introduced the following hotels during the quarter:
DOMESTIC
Ascend Hotel Collection
Hotel Name City Country/State Rooms
---------- ---- ------------- -----
Arroyo Pinion Hotel, an Ascend
Hotel Collection member Sedona AZ 45
------------------------------ ------ --- ---
Carmel Mission Inn, an Ascend
Hotel Collection Member Carmel CA 165
----------------------------- ------ --- ---
St. James Hotel New Orleans, an
Ascend Hotel Collection Member New Orleans LA 86
------------------------------- ----------- --- ---
Admiral Fell Inn, an Ascend
Hotel Collection Member Baltimore MD 80
--------------------------- --------- --- ---
The Inn at Henderson's Wharf,
an Ascend Hotel Collection
Member Baltimore MD 38
----------------------------- --------- --- ---
Pier 5, an Ascend Hotel
Collection Member Baltimore MD 66
----------------------- --------- --- ---
Clarion Inn
Hotel Name City Country/State Rooms
---------- ---- ------------- -----
Clarion Inn & Suites
University Center Auburn AL 118
-------------------- ------ --- ---
Clarion Hotel Medical
Center Little Rock AR 263
--------------------- ----------- --- ---
Clarion Hotel Fort Mill SC 197
------------- --------- --- ---
Clarion Inn Cleveland TN 59
----------- --------- --- ---
Comfort Inn & Suites
Hotel Name City Country/State Rooms
---------- ---- ------------- -----
Comfort Inn Benson AZ 62
----------- ------ --- ---
Comfort Suites Texarkana AR 82
-------------- --------- --- ---
Comfort Inn Morro Bay CA 32
----------- --------- --- ---
Comfort Suites Sarasota Sarasota FL 97
----------------------- -------- --- ---
Comfort Suites Bossier City LA 83
-------------- ------------ --- ---
Comfort Inn Jackson MS 53
----------- ------- --- ---
Comfort Inn Tupelo MS 58
----------- ------ --- ---
Comfort Inn & Suites By
Worlds of Fun Kansas City MO 86
----------------------- ----------- --- ---
Comfort Inn Fayetteville NC 61
----------- ------------ --- ---
Comfort Inn Midtown West New York City NY 89
------------------------ ------------- --- ---
Comfort Inn Saint Clairsville OH 54
----------- ----------------- --- ---
Comfort Inn & Suites Alva OK 60
-------------------- ---- --- ---
Comfort Inn Clarksville TN 60
----------- ----------- --- ---
Econo Lodge
Hotel Name City Country/State Rooms
---------- ---- ------------- -----
Econo Lodge Inn &
Suites Little Rock AR 33
----------------- ----------- --- ---
Econo Lodge Rockville IN 31
----------- --------- --- ---
Econo Lodge Hammonton NJ 94
----------- --------- --- ---
Econo Lodge Jamestown ND 39
----------- --------- --- ---
Econo Lodge Inn &
Suites Williamsburg VA 100
----------------- ------------ --- ---
Econo Lodge Woodstock VA 40
----------- --------- --- ---
Quality Inn & Suites
Hotel Name City Country/State Rooms
---------- ---- ------------- -----
Quality Inn Atmore AL 49
----------- ------ --- ---
Quality Inn & Suites Thomasville AL 40
-------------------- ----------- --- ---
Quality Suites Stratford CT 82
-------------- --------- --- ---
Quality Inn Altamonte Springs FL 80
----------- ----------------- --- ---
Quality Inn Sarasota FL 61
----------- -------- --- ---
Quality Inn & Suites Griffin GA 49
-------------------- ------- --- ---
Quality Inn Conference Center Logansport IN 80
----------------------------- ---------- --- ---
Quality Inn & Suites Coralville IA 63
-------------------- ---------- --- ---
Quality Inn Deep Creek Lake Mc Henry MD 75
--------------------------- -------- --- ---
Quality Inn Henderson NC 120
----------- --------- --- ---
Quality Inn & Suites Hobbs NM 65
-------------------- ----- --- ---
Quality Inn & Suites Watertown NY 95
-------------------- --------- --- ---
Quality Inn Canton OH 61
----------- ------ --- ---
Quality Inn Houston TX 88
----------- ------- --- ---
Quality Inn & Suites Houston TX 62
-------------------- ------- --- ---
Quality Inn Chesapeake VA 59
----------- ---------- --- ---
Quality Inn Evanston WY 100
----------- -------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn
Hotel Name City Country/State Rooms
---------- ---- ------------- -----
Rodeway Inn Imperial CA 90
----------- -------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn South Gate CA 52
----------- ---------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn Sarasota FL 96
----------- -------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn & Suites Macon GA 40
-------------------- ----- --- ---
Rodeway Inn Skokie IL 134
----------- ------ --- ---
Rodeway Inn & Suites Hoisington KS 31
-------------------- ---------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn Alexandria LA 40
----------- ---------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn Whitehall MT 33
----------- --------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn Jersey City NJ 50
----------- ----------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn Albuquerque NM 109
----------- ----------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn & Suites Roseburg OR 52
-------------------- -------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn North Charleston SC 77
----------- ---------------- --- ---
Rodeway Inn & Suites Austin TX 48
-------------------- ------ --- ---
Sleep Inn
Hotel Name City Country/State Rooms
---------- ---- ------------- -----
Sleep Inn at PGA
Village Port Saint Lucie FL 17
---------------- ---------------- --- ---
Sleep Inn & Suites Clintwood VA 53
------------------ --------- --- ---
Suburban Extended Stay
Hotel Name City Country/State Rooms
---------- ---- ------------- -----
Suburban Extended Stay
Hotel Quantico Stafford VA 95
---------------------- -------- --- ---
INTERNATIONAL
Ascend Hotel Collection
THE THIEF, an Ascend Hotel
Collection hotel Oslo Norway 120
-------------------------- ---- ------ ---
Clarion Inn
Clarion Collection Hotel
Helsing Helsingborg Sweden 63
------------------------ ----------- ------ ---
Clarion Collection Hotel
Cromwell Stevenage Stevenage United Kingdom 76
------------------------ --------- -------------- ---
Comfort Inn & Suites
Comfort Inn Centrepoint Lismore Australia 41
----------------------- ------- --------- ---
Comfort Inn Bushmans Parkes Australia 30
-------------------- ------ --------- ---
Comfort Inn Suba Ahmedabad India 36
---------------- --------- ----- ---
Comfort Hotel Amadeus Roma Rome Italy 24
-------------------------- ---- ----- ---
Comfort Inn Ciudad de Mexico
Santa Fe Mexico City Mexico 196
---------------------------- ----------- ------ ---
Comfort Hotel Arctic Lulea Sweden 94
-------------------- ----- ------ ---
Econo Lodge
Econo Lodge Statesman Ararat Ararat Australia 19
---------------------------- ------ --------- ---
Econo Lodge Grafton Grafton Australia 31
------------------- ------- --------- ---
Econo Lodge Golden Canada 38
----------- ------ ------ ---
Quality Inn & Suites
Quality Hotel
Bayside Geelong Geelong Australia 68
---------------- ------- --------- ---
Quality Inn
Margaret River Margaret River Australia 55
--------------- -------------- --------- ---
Quality Hotel
Petrolina Petrolina Brazil 132
------------- --------- ------ ---
Quality Hotel &
Conference Centre Campbellton Canada 61
------------------ ----------- ------ ---
Quality Hotel
Alisee Poitiers
Nord Chasseneuil, Futuroscope Cedex France 75
---------------- ------------------------------ ------ ---
Quality Hotel Green
Palace Monterotondo Italy 100
------------------- ------------ ----- ---
Quality Inn Lake
Taupo Taupo New Zealand 40
---------------- ----- ----------- ---
Quality Hotel
Bodensia Boden Sweden 100
------------- ----- ------ ---
Quality Hotel
Stadshotellet
Skelleftea Skelleftea Sweden 113
-------------- ---------- ------ ---
Quality Hotel
Sundsvall Sundsvall Sweden 201
------------- --------- ------ ---
Quality Hotel Bury
St Edmunds Bury St Edmunds United Kingdom 71
------------------ --------------- -------------- ---
Quality Hotel
Colchester Colchester United Kingdom 50
------------- ---------- -------------- ---
Quality Hotel Kings
Lynn Kings Lynn United Kingdom 50
------------------- ---------- -------------- ---
Quality Hotel
Peterborough Peterborough United Kingdom 70
------------- ------------ -------------- ---
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain matters discussed in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Generally, our use of words such as "expect," "estimate," "believe," "anticipate," "will," "forecast," "plan"," project," "assume" or similar words of futurity identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current beliefs, assumptions and expectations regarding future events, which in turn are based on information currently available to management. Such statements may relate to projections of the company's revenue, earnings and other financial and operational measures, company debt levels, ability to repay outstanding indebtedness, payment of dividends, and future operations, among other matters. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements do not guarantee future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors.
Several factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements of the company to differ materially from those expressed in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to, changes to general, domestic and foreign economic conditions; operating risks common in the lodging and franchising industries; changes to the desirability of our brands as viewed by hotel operators and customers; changes to the terms or termination of our contracts with franchisees; our ability to keep pace with improvements in technology utilized for reservations systems and other operating systems; fluctuations in the supply and demand for hotels rooms; and our ability to manage effectively our indebtedness. These and other risk factors are discussed in detail in the Risk Factors section of the company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2013 and our quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
About Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises over 6,200 hotels, representing more than 500,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 30 other countries and territories. As of March 31, 2013, 395 hotels, representing more than 30,000 rooms, were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States. Additionally, 81 hotels, representing approximately 7,000 rooms, were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in more than 20 other countries and territories. The company's Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands, as well as its Ascend Hotel Collection membership program, serve guests worldwide.
SkyTouch Technology is an initiative of Choice Hotels International, Inc. that develops and markets cloud-based technology products to help industry-wide hoteliers improve their efficiency and profitability.
Additional corporate information may be found on the Choice Hotels International, Inc. website, which may be accessed at www.choicehotels.com.
Choice Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Choice Privileges®, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn and Ascend Hotel Collection are proprietary trademarks and service marks of Choice Hotels International.
© 2013 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved.
SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.
SOURCE: Choice Hotels International, Inc.
ROCKVILLE, Md., May 14, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), one of the world's largest lodging franchisors, announced robust system growth with the addition of 88 newly opened franchised properties during the first quarter of 2013. Additionally, the company has executed a total of 83 new domestic contracts within the first quarter of 2013, a 30-percent increase over the same period of the prior year.
Ascend Hotel Collection, a membership program comprised of exquisite independent hotels, continued its exceptional growth into the first quarter of 2013, with 28 new membership agreements signed compared to three membership agreements during the same time last year. Much of this growth is a direct result of Choice Hotels International's strategic marketing alliance with timeshare company Bluegreen Vacations, a relationship which enables the company to further extend the Ascend Hotel Collection portfolio into even more outstanding resort destinations.
During the first three months of 2013, openings include hotels in 28 U.S. states and 11 countries, adding more than 6,500 guestrooms to the company's existing rooms which stand at more than half a million. The Choice Hotels portfolio of franchised hotels offers business and leisure travelers a full spectrum from premium economy to upscale hotels and resorts.
"We are especially pleased by the positive reception we've seen to our upscale brands, as well as the significant traction we're gaining in major urban markets," said David Pepper, senior vice president of global development for Choice Hotels International. "Across all brands, the development environment has improved for new construction, so much so that we believe 2013 is on track to be considerably stronger than last year for franchise development."
Select properties that opened during this year's first quarter include:
Arroyo Pinion Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection – Sedona, Arizona
The stunning Red Rocks of Sedona, Arizona have colorful names like 'Thunder Mountain,' 'Lizard Head,' and 'Coffeepot,' and right across the street from these landmarks you will find the Arroyo Pinion Hotel. Guests of Arroyo Pinion, part of the Ascend Hotel Collection, will love its proximity to nature, including the world-renowned Red Rock Crossing and scenic Oak Creek Canyon, as well as the easy access to shopping in Uptown Sedona, with its impressive array of art galleries. Local eateries range from casual chic to five-star elegance and those who wish to explore Sedona's mystical vortexes will have plenty of local guides to lend a hand. Guests can also enjoy the spirit of relaxation with in-room whirlpool tubs and patios available in many rooms. Free continental breakfast and a free daily newspaper make the Arroyo Pinion a perfect spot for business and leisure travelers.
Hotel Cromwell, a Clarion Collection hotel – Stevenage, Great Britain, UK
History pairs with modern luxury at the stately Hotel Cromwell, part of the Clarion Collection portfolio of hotels, located in Stevenage, Great Britain. Converted from a farmhouse which was once home to John Thurloe, secretary to Oliver Cromwell, guests can sample the local character at the nearby Hatfield House and the splendid Knebworth House. Families will particularly enjoy the neighboring Harry Potter World, Woburn Safari Park, Whipsnade Zoo, and Paradise Wildlife Park. A visit to London is just minutes away via rail or the A1. Dining options include the elegant Oliver's Restaurant and its excellent wine list, as well as the hotel's tavern and lounge. Business and leisure travelers alike will appreciate the flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, trouser press, and tea & coffee making facilities available in each and every room.
Comfort Inn Midtown West/Manhattan – New York, NY
The brand new Comfort Inn Midtown West, located in Hell's Kitchen in Manhattan has easy access to everything New York City has to offer. Minutes away from marquee attractions including Times Square, Broadway and the Empire State Building, the hotel also is close to Central Park, 5th Avenue shopping and Rockefeller Center. Welcoming interior corridors transport you conveniently and safely to the spacious rooms. Guests – whether they're in the Big Apple for business or pleasure – will appreciate the free wireless high-speed Internet access, free in-room coffee, and a free hot and delicious breakfast featuring eggs, meat, yogurt, fresh fruit, cereal and more, including your choice of hot waffle flavors.
Clintwood Sleep Inn & Suites – Clintwood, Virginia
Travelers will rest well amidst the trees and rolling hills of southwestern Virginia at The Sleep Inn & Suites® hotel in Clintwood, Virginia. This simply stylish Designed to Dream® hotel features soft lighting and soothing, nature-oriented artwork, as well as the Sleep Inn brand's signature showers, plush bedding, large workspaces with ergonomic chairs and high-definition flat-screen televisions with cable programming. Local history is close at hand with the Ralph Stanley Museum and Dr. Phipps Family Museum located just up the road. Guests will re-energize with a workout in the on-site exercise room and keep productive at the hotel's business center.
Choice Hotels also introduced the following hotels during the quarter:
DOMESTIC
Ascend Hotel Collection
Clarion Inn
Comfort Inn & Suites
Econo Lodge
Quality Inn & Suites
Rodeway Inn
Sleep Inn
Suburban Extended Stay
INTERNATIONAL
Ascend Hotel Collection
Clarion Inn
Comfort Inn & Suites
Econo Lodge
Quality Inn & Suites
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain matters discussed in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Generally, our use of words such as "expect," "estimate," "believe," "anticipate," "will," "forecast," "plan"," project," "assume" or similar words of futurity identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current beliefs, assumptions and expectations regarding future events, which in turn are based on information currently available to management. Such statements may relate to projections of the company's revenue, earnings and other financial and operational measures, company debt levels, ability to repay outstanding indebtedness, payment of dividends, and future operations, among other matters. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements do not guarantee future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors.
Several factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements of the company to differ materially from those expressed in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to, changes to general, domestic and foreign economic conditions; operating risks common in the lodging and franchising industries; changes to the desirability of our brands as viewed by hotel operators and customers; changes to the terms or termination of our contracts with franchisees; our ability to keep pace with improvements in technology utilized for reservations systems and other operating systems; fluctuations in the supply and demand for hotels rooms; and our ability to manage effectively our indebtedness. These and other risk factors are discussed in detail in the Risk Factors section of the company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2013 and our quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
About Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises over 6,200 hotels, representing more than 500,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 30 other countries and territories. As of March 31, 2013, 395 hotels, representing more than 30,000 rooms, were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States. Additionally, 81 hotels, representing approximately 7,000 rooms, were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in more than 20 other countries and territories. The company's Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands, as well as its Ascend Hotel Collection membership program, serve guests worldwide.
SkyTouch Technology is an initiative of Choice Hotels International, Inc. that develops and markets cloud-based technology products to help industry-wide hoteliers improve their efficiency and profitability.
Additional corporate information may be found on the Choice Hotels International, Inc. website, which may be accessed at www.choicehotels.com.
Choice Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Choice Privileges®, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn and Ascend Hotel Collection are proprietary trademarks and service marks of Choice Hotels International.
© 2013 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved.
SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.