Country Hearth Inns are mid-priced, limited-service hotels that serve both the business traveler and vacationer.  The hotels combine the homey atmosphere of a bed-and-breakfast, including Early-American décor, a complimentary �InnCredible Breakfast,� manager�s reception and free local telephone calls, with the convenience of a modern hotel.
 

Royal Host, a Canadian real estate investment trust, owns 38 hotel properties and manages 78 hotels.  Under a master license agreement, Royal Host agreed to develop a minimum of 10 Country Hearth Inns in Canada during the next 10 years. Dorothy Dowling, executive vice president of Royal Host, said, �Royal Host reviewed a number of mid-market hospitality brands before adding Country Hearth Inns to our portfolio.  We believe its people and its concept are a good fit for us and a good value for the franchising community in Canada.�

Dorothy Dowling Executive VP Sales and Marketing Royal Host

Douglas C. Collins, president of the Country Hearth Inn franchising system, said, �We welcome Royal Host as a partner in growing the Country Hearth system.  Our expansion into Canada will open new markets and strengthen the marketing reach of all Country Hearth Inn franchisees.�

Currently, Country Hearth Inns are located primarily in the mid-western and southern United States.  The brand is owned by Buckhead America Corp., an Atlanta-based, hospitality services company.