SAVANNAH, GA— More than 1,700 owners, operators, GMs and other attendees are headed here this weekend for the biannual Days Inn Worldwide conference, back in the state where the brand was launched 33 years ago by Cecil B. Day. With a working theme of “Right Here, Right Now, Right Where I Want To Be,” the event is being held at the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center, overlooking Savannah Harbor. Brand President Joe Kane will lead the general session, which will feature keynote speaker Amanda Gore. Kane and his executive team will share their visions for the brand for 2003 and beyond, including operational strategies, national and regional marketing plans and updates on parent Cendant Corp.’s divisional initiatives, such as “Project Restore.” Kenneth Leiter, the new senior director of marketing for the brand, also will present media plans and promotions for the year. Since the first Days Inn opened on Tybee Island, GA, in 1970, the brand has grown to more than 1,900 worldwide, and plans for continued growth also will be explored. Additionally, seminars/meetings, a trade show, golf tournament, awards presentations, FAC elections and a closing celebration will round out the event.— Stefani C. O’Connor
