Hawthorn Suites Announces Plans To Grow Brand

ATLANTA— Hawthorn Suites made a key executive appointment, naming Chick Armstrong as senior vp of development, signaling the brands commitment to renewed growth as a national player. “With economic opportunities on the rise, Hawthorn Suites is poised for continued development and growth. The time is right for us to strengthen our network … to at least double the number of hotels over the next five years,” said Mike Leven, president and CEO of US Franchise Systems, Inc. (USFS), parent company of the franchisor of the Hawthorn Suites brand. Since USFS acquired the brand in 1998, it has grown to 115 hotels open or under construction, as of March 31, 2004. “Chick Armstrong is the person to drive Hawthorn Suites forward,” Leven continued. “He is a seasoned and ambitious sales professional, who brings proven ability and a strong understanding of both the extended stay segment and new construction markets.” In his new capacity, Armstrong will be responsible for the overall strategic direction and development of Hawthorn Suites, including the formation of an expanded sales team to provide a solid foundation for the brands growth and appeal to both business and leisure travelers. “Hawthorn Suites has great potential and I look forward to the opportunity to further develop the brand,” said Armstrong. “My first step will be to build our sales team. Fair and responsible franchising will be key, and the franchisor-franchisee relationship will continue to be nurtured long after the sale is completed.” USFS has gained national recognition as a fair franchisor and was named Best Practice Champion for its fair franchise agreement by the American Hotel Foundation. In addition, it was the first hotel company to receive the Fair Franchising Seal from the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD). Armstrong said he is impressed with the extended stay expertise of current Hawthorn Suites staff, which handles extensive marketing and franchise support, and fosters good faith and strong working relationships among franchisees. Armstrong, 46, is a 15-year veteran of the hospitality industry, and has extensive experience in franchise sales and development. In his previous role, he served as vice president of franchise sales at Candlewood Suites from 1999 until last December when the company was sold to Intercontinental Hotels Group. Prior to that, he was with Cendant Corporation and HFS, Inc., where he helped to launch Wingate Inns.