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| Silver Spring, MD (May 8, 2003) � In a move designed to dramatically
enhance return on investment for hotel developers while improving the quality
of the guest experience, Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE:CHH) has
unveiled new prototypes for its Sleep Inn and Comfort Suites brands � prototypes
that significantly reduce per key costs while retaining the signature characteristics
of each brand, and that firmly establish both brands as bellwethers of
the next generation of hotel design.
�In a tough environment for new hotel construction, it�s particularly incumbent upon hotel companies to offer hotels that are designed for maximum profitability,� said Thom Hall, vice president, brand management and strategy for Choice Hotels. �These new prototypes were designed, first and foremost, with developers� return on investment in mind. We focused on optimizing essential guest needs, and eliminated elements that are costly but have little or no impact on the guest experience. �The result? New prototypes that potentially reduce per key costs of up to ten percent for Comfort Suites and up to 20 percent for Sleep Inn,� said Hall. The newly-designed Sleep Inn prototype simplifies and refines the exterior image, eliminates excess public space, and increases the efficiency of the overall guestroom area. Guestroom FF&E costs have been substantially reduced, excess lighting and furniture has been eliminated, and the guest bath experience has been enhanced. The Comfort Suites prototype builds on the success of the current guestroom layout, which has been modified to create a warmer, residential atmosphere and improved separation between the living and sleeping areas of the suite. The dramatically reimaged public space encourages guests to enjoy a wider range of activities, from casual lounging to continental breakfast. David Pepper, vice president, franchise development, emphasized that both brands were value-engineered without sacrificing elements that contribute to the overall guest experience. �Sleep Inn is renowned throughout the industry for its guest satisfaction ratings. Comfort Suites has redefined the all-suite experience for millions of travelers for whom value is paramount. These new prototypes, while significant to developers, also build on the superior guest experience represented by both brands,� Pepper said. Choice Hotels International is one of the world�s largest lodging franchisors, marketing more than 5,000 hotels open or under development in 48 countries and territories under the Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, MainStay Suites, Econo Lodge, and Rodeway Inn brand names. |
| Contact:
Anne Papa Curtis Tel: (301) 592-5155 Fax: (301) 592-6177 [email protected] |