ATLANTIC CITY, NJ It looks like the relationship between franchisors and franchisees, while not yet perfect, has taken a turn for the better since last year s Annual Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) convention in Las Vegas.
A year ago at the AAHOA meeting, USFS Chairman/CEO Mike Leven walked off the stage when he felt that the atmosphere between him and the AAHOA audience became too highly charged.
At this year s annual conclave, Leven was able to hold his ground along with Cendant Corp. Hotel Division Chairman/CEO Eric Pfeffer, Choice Hotels President/CEO Chuck Ledsinger, Hilton Hotels Franchise Group President Tom Keltner, and Accor Economy Lodging President/CEO Georges LeMener. Together, the group moderated by former Sunburst Hospitality Corp. Vice Chairman/CEO Don Landry was able to address franchisees thoughts on standards enforcement, mandated technology enhancements, impact questions, purchasing/procurement expectations, and liquidated damages considerations. (3/9/01) Michael Billig