DULUTH, GA— HOTEL BUSINESS® has learned that Six Continents Hotels will open the first of its latest new prototype in Gwinnett County, GA in October 2003. Located near to the Gwinnett Civic and Cultural Center, which is currently undergoing a $90 million expansion that will add a 21,600 square foot ballroom and 11,600-seat arena, the new Holiday Inn prototype breaks ground next months, said Steve Porter, president/Americas for 6C. “The land is under contract and will pre-close on [September] 20, and will firm close on the 23rd,” said Porter. “Construction will begin October 28.” He noted the project, which is owned by 6C, is part of a mixed-use complex that includes the civic center along with restaurants and office towers. Situated about 30 miles northeast of Atlanta, the new Holiday Inn property marks the latest in the brand’s prototype evolution. The hotel is expected to feature about 130 rooms, making it smaller than a regular Holiday Inn but larger than an Express. The new prototype, which offers a lower-cost-per-key to developers, also calls for bistro-style eating outlets rather than full-service restaurants, and indoor pools. Diana M. Rodriguez
