Shoney’s Looking To Grow Through Acquisition

HENDERSONVILLE, TN— Sholodge is looking to grow its 70-property hotel brand, ShoLodge Franchise Systems, LLC— which encompasses Shoneys Inns and Shoneys Inns & Suites— via acquisition. John Buttolph, vp/franchising and development for Sholodge and president of ShoLodge Franchise Systems, LLC told HOTEL BUSINESS® that the ShoLodge franchise “is actively seeking one or two small chains we could acquire.” When asked which ones, Buttolph declined comment, but did say that if any acquisitions come to fruition, it could double or triple the size of the Shoneys brand. Buttolph also noted that he hopes any acquisitions Shoneys are currently eyeing will be made final by years end. He believes growing the Shoneys brand through acquiring another chain or two is the best way to grow a smaller hotel chain right now, rather than by simply signing up new franchisees which only affords incremental growth. — Barbara Capella Loehr