NATIONAL REPORT—North America continues to see its share of hotel openings, with the major franchisors targeting select locations.
Grand Opening for Cambria Hotel Chicago Loop-Theatre District
Choice Hotels International held a grand opening ceremony for the Cambria Hotel Chicago Loop-Theatre District, the brand’s first adaptive-reuse project. It was developed by Murphy Development Group and is managed by Crescent Hotels & Resorts.
Originally constructed in 1927, the 22-story, 199-room hotel, located at 32 W. Randolph St., is situated above the historic Ford Center for the Performing Arts Oriental Theatre.
Attending the grand opening (pictured) were Dawn Gallagher, chief sales and marketing officer, Crescent Hotels and Resorts; Steve Stoycos, managing director-real estate investments and capital development, Choice Hotels International; Janis Cannon, SVP, upscale, Choice Hotels International; John Murphy, chairman/CEO, Murphy Development Group; Evan Studer, EVP, operations, Crescent Hotels & Resorts; Chris Horney, development senior associate, MB Real Estate.
“The buildings of downtown Chicago all have stories behind them. This Cambria project is no exception, and we are proud to deliver such an exceptional hotel product for Choice while embracing and preserving the city’s architectural culture,” said Murphy.
Quality Inn Marks 1,500th U.S. Hotel Opening
Quality Inn has opened its 1,500th U.S. hotel in Williston, ND. The brand’s growth is positioned to continue with more than 25 properties slated to open before the end of the year, totaling 88 openings this year—a 7% increase from last year, according to the company. Quality Inn properties are located all over the country, including major markets, such as Nashville, TN; New York, Dallas, New Orleans and Atlanta.
“Quality Inn is the most in-demand midscale conversion brand because it appeals to both franchisees and guests,” said Anne Smith, VP of brand management and design at Choice Hotels International. “The brand innovated the midscale hotel franchise model, becoming the first hotel chain in the country. More than 75 years later, Quality Inn is a consistent performer with domestic RevPAR up 3.3% in the first half of the year, outpacing the midscale segment.”
“Thanks to its high brand awareness and strong equity, we continue to see Quality Inn offering a strong value proposition to hotel owners,” said Tom Nee, VP of franchise development at Choice Hotels International. “Additionally, franchisees have access to Choice Hotels’ services and support tools, making it an appealing option to open new properties.”
American Hospitality Management Inc. franchised the 1,500th Quality Inn. The property will be managed by INH Management Inc., a full-service real estate and property management company.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Opens in Indiana
In Indiana, a Home2 Suites by Hilton, part of Hilton’s all suites portfolio, opened in Lafayette, bringing the brand one step closer to its 200th property milestone. The hotel has 93 suites and a range of value, tech-focused and eco-conscious amenities.
Owned by Kamba Hospitality and managed by Witness Hospitality LLC, the hotel at 3838 Grace Ln. offers suites with fully equipped kitchens and modular furniture. Property amenities include complimentary internet and Spin2 Cycle, a combined laundry and fitness area; Home2 MKT for grab-and-go items; and the Inspired Table, a complimentary daily breakfast. The hotel is also is pet-friendly.
Shannon Lowry is serving as general manager.