PARSIPPANY, N.J., April 26, 2022 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months ended March 31, 2022. Highlights include:
Global RevPAR grew 39% compared to first quarter 2021 in constant currency.
System-wide rooms grew 200 basis points year-over-year, including 120 basis points of growth in the U.S. and 330 basis points of growth internationally.
Diluted earnings per share of $1.14 compared to $0.26 in the first quarter 2021; adjusted diluted earnings per share increased to $0.95 compared to $0.36 in first quarter 2021.
Net income of $106 million compared to $24 million in first quarter 2021; adjusted net income of $88 million compared to $33 million in first quarter 2021.
Adjusted EBITDA of $159 million compared to $97 million in first quarter 2021.
Net cash provided by operating activities of $135 million compared to $64 million in first quarter 2021; free cash flow of $125 million compared to $59 million in first quarter 2021.
Completed the exit of its select-service management business.
Completed the sale of the Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek Resort; the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Resort is under contract and expected to close in May 2022.
Returned $68 million to shareholders through $38 million of share repurchases and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.32 per share.
“Our exemplary first quarter results demonstrate the power of our brands and the value we are driving to our owners, guests, and shareholders,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “Strong leisure and everyday business travel demand drove RevPAR 4% above 2019 levels domestically and we continued to simplify our operations by exiting our select-service management business and selling one of our two owned assets. Our development pipeline increased 9% to a record 204,000 rooms, including the first 50 deals for our new extended-stay product, and our room openings grew 50% more than last year, putting us solidly on track with our full year net-room growth guidance.”
Fee-related and other revenues increased 36% year-over-year to $316 million primarily reflecting strong ADR growth in the U.S.
The Company generated net income of $106 million, or $1.14 per diluted share, an increase of $82 million, or $0.88 per diluted share, reflecting higher adjusted EBITDA, a gain on the sale of the Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek Resort and lower net interest expense. Adjusted EBITDA increased $62 million, or 64%, versus 2021 to $159 million reflecting higher revenue and a favorable timing benefit from the marketing fund, partially offset by higher variable expenses at the Company’s owned hotels.
During the first quarter 2022, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $7 million; while in first quarter 2021, the Company’s marketing fund expenses exceeded revenues by $7 million.
Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the Company’s non-GAAP adjusted measures for all reported periods appear in the tables to this press release.
System Size
The Company’s global system grew 200 basis points, reflecting 120 basis points of growth in the U.S. and 330 basis points of growth internationally. As expected, these increases included strong growth in both the higher RevPAR midscale and above segments in the U.S. and the direct franchising business in China, which grew 6% and 12%, respectively. The Company remains solidly on track with its goal of achieving a retention rate above 95% and its net room growth outlook of 2 to 4% for the full year 2022.
RevPAR
First quarter RevPAR grew 39% globally in constant currency, including 38% growth in the U.S. and 46% growth internationally. The increase is approximately two-thirds driven by stronger pricing power and one-third driven by higher occupancy levels.
Business Segment Discussion
Hotel Management revenues increased 5% year-over-year to $99 million, including a $16 million decrease in cost-reimbursement revenues, which have no impact on adjusted EBITDA. Absent cost-reimbursements, Hotel Management revenues increased $21 million, or 91%, to $44 million primarily due to the global RevPAR increase and improved performance at the Company’s owned hotels. Hotel Management adjusted EBITDA increased $15 million year-over-year reflecting the revenue increases, partially offset by higher variable expenses at the Company’s owned hotels.Hotel Franchising revenues increased 30% year-over-year to $272 million primarily due to the global RevPAR increase. Hotel Franchising adjusted EBITDA increased 48% to $155 million reflecting the growth in revenues and a timing benefit from the marketing fund.
Development
The Company awarded 165 new contracts this quarter, including 50 new construction projects for the Company’s new extended-stay brand, compared to 112 in the first quarter 2021. On March 31, 2022, the Company’s global development pipeline consisted of approximately 1,600 hotels and approximately 204,000 rooms, of which approximately 80% is in the midscale and above segments (nearly 70% in the U.S.). The pipeline grew 9% year-over-year, including 12% domestically and 7% internationally. Approximately 63% of the Company’s development pipeline is international and 79% is new construction, of which approximately 35% has broken ground.
Exit of Select-Service Management Business
On March 3, 2022, the Company completed the exit of its select-service management business and received proceeds of $84 million from CorePoint Lodging (“CPLG”). The franchise agreements for these hotels remained in-place at their stated fee structure with CPLG’s buyer, Highgate Holdings, Inc. The proceeds received were offset on the Company’s income statement by the non-cash write-off of the remaining balance of the management contract intangible asset that was created upon the acquisition of La Quinta Holdings in 2018.
Sale of Owned Hotels
On March 24, 2022, the Company completed the sale of the Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek Resort in Orlando for gross proceeds of approximately $121 million and recognized a $36 million gain on sale, which has been excluded from Adjusted EBITDA. The Company entered into a 20-year franchise agreement with the buyer.
The Company is under contract and expects to complete the sale of the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Resort in Puerto Rico in May 2022. The Company expects to enter into a 20-year franchise agreement with the buyer in connection with the sale.
Balance Sheet and Liquidity
The Company generated $135 million of net cash provided by operating activities in the first quarter of 2022 and $125 million of free cash flow. The Company ended the quarter with a cash balance of $416 million, including $84 million of proceeds received in connection with the Company’s exit of its select-service management business and gross proceeds of approximately $121 million received in connection with its sale of the Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek Resort. These inflows are reflected within the investing section of the Statement of Cash Flows and therefore not included in the Company’s free cash flow.
At March 31, 2022, the Company had approximately $1.2 billion in total liquidity and its net debt leverage ratio was 2.6 times, below the Company’s 3 to 4 times stated target range. Excluding the proceeds received in connection with the exit of its select-service management business and the sale of the Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek Resort, which are expected to be redeployed, the net debt leverage ratio was 2.9 times.
In April 2022, the Company amended its $750 million revolving credit facility, extending the maturity from May 2023 to April 2027 on similar terms as the previous facility, and issued a new $400 million senior secured Term Loan A facility, which matures in April 2027. The proceeds from the Term Loan A were used to repay a portion of the Company’s existing Term Loan B facility, which is scheduled to mature in May 2025. There was no increase in rates from the Term Loan B to the new Term Loan A.
Share Repurchases and Dividends
During the first quarter of 2022, the Company repurchased approximately 455,100 shares of its common stock for $38 million at an average price of $83.72 per share.
The Company paid common stock dividends of $30 million, or $0.32 per share, in the first quarter of 2022.
Full-Year 2022 Outlook
The Company is updating its outlook as follows:
(a) Reflects the removal of post-sale revenues related to the Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek and Wyndham Grand Rio Mar from prior projections.
(b) Reflects the removal from prior projections of depreciation related to the Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek and Wyndham Grand Rio Mar.
(c) Represents the percentage of adjusted EBITDA that is expected to produce free cash flow.
More detailed projections are available in Table 8 of this press release. The Company is providing certain financial metrics only on a non-GAAP basis because, without unreasonable efforts, it is unable to predict with reasonable certainty the occurrence or amount of all of the adjustments or other potential adjustments that may arise in the future during the forward-looking period, which can be dependent on future events that may not be reliably predicted. Based on past reported results, where one or more of these items have been applicable, such excluded items could be material, individually or in the aggregate, to the reported results.
Conference Call Information Wyndham Hotels will hold a conference call with investors to discuss the Company’s results and outlook on Wednesday, April 27, 2022 at 8:30 a.m. ET. Listeners can access the webcast live through the Company’s website at www.investor.wyndhamhotels.com. The conference call may also be accessed by dialing 866 831-8713 and providing the passcode “Wyndham”. Listeners are urged to call at least five minutes prior to the scheduled start time. An archive of this webcast will be available on the website beginning at noon ET on April 27, 2022. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on April 27, 2022 at 800 839-4992.
Presentation of Financial Information Financial information discussed in this press release includes non-GAAP measures, which include or exclude certain items. These non-GAAP measures differ from reported GAAP results and are intended to illustrate what management believes are relevant period-over-period comparisons and are helpful to investors as an additional tool for further understanding and assessing the Company’s ongoing operating performance. The Company uses these measures internally to assess its operating performance, both absolutely and in comparison to other companies, and to make day to day operating decisions, including in the evaluation of selected compensation decisions. Exclusion of items in the Company’s non-GAAP presentation should not be considered an inference that these items are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring. Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the comparable non-GAAP measures for the reported periods appear in the financial tables section of this press release.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with over 8,900 hotels across over 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of over 813,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers approximately 94 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com. The Company may use its website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Disclosures of this nature will be included on the Company’s website in the Investors section, which can currently be accessed at www.investor.wyndhamhotels.com. Accordingly, investors should monitor this section of the Company’s website in addition to following the Company’s press releases, filings submitted with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any public conference calls or webcasts.
Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements related to the Company’s current views and expectations with respect to its future performance and operations, including revenues, earnings, cash flow and other financial and operating measures, share repurchases and dividends, restructuring charges and statements related to the coronavirus pandemic (“COVID-19”). Forward-looking statements include those that convey management’s expectations as to the future based on plans, estimates and projections at the time the Company makes the statements and may be identified by words such as “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “goal,” “future,” “outlook,” “guidance,” “target,” “objective,” “estimate,” “projection” and similar words or expressions, including the negative version of such words and expressions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, without limitation, general economic conditions; the continuation or worsening of the effects from COVID-19, its scope, duration, resurgence and impact on the Company’s business operations, financial results, cash flows and liquidity, as well as the impact on the Company’s franchisees and property owners, guests and team members, the hospitality industry and overall demand for travel; the success of the Company’s mitigation efforts in response to COVID-19; the Company’s performance during the recovery from COVID-19 and any resurgence or mutations of the virus; various actions governments, businesses and individuals continue to take in response to the pandemic, including stay-in-place directives (including, for instance, quarantine and isolation guidelines and mandates), safety mitigation guidance, as well as the timing, availability and adoption rates of vaccinations, booster shots and other treatments for COVID-19; concerns with or threats of other pandemics, contagious diseases or health epidemics, including the effects of COVID-19; the performance of the financial and credit markets; the economic environment for the hospitality industry; operating risks associated with the hotel franchising and management businesses; the Company’s relationships with franchisees and property owners; the impact of war, terrorist activity, political instability or political strife; risks related to restructuring or strategic initiatives; the Company’s ability to satisfy obligations and agreements under its outstanding indebtedness, including the payment of principal and interest and compliance with the covenants thereunder; risks related to the Company’s ability to obtain financing and the terms of such financing, including access to liquidity and capital; and the Company’s ability to make or pay, plans for, and the timing and amount of any future share repurchases and/or dividends, as well as the risks described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise.
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (March 22, 2022) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries, today unveiled new details about its upcoming economy extended-stay hotel brand. Among them, newly awarded contracts to develop 50 new construction projects with its first two partners: Richmond, Va.-based Sandpiper Hospitality and Dallas-based Gulf Coast Hotel Management.
Operating under the working title “Project ECHO”—an acronym for Economy Hotel Opportunity—the all new-construction brand fills whitespace within the larger Wyndham Hotels & Resorts portfolio while strategically expanding the company into a segment that has seen record growth and resiliency, not just amid the pandemic but throughout the last lodging cycle. Wyndham has been developing the brand since summer 2021.
“Over the last two years, economy extended-stay hotels outperformed all other segments, and in 2021, set new records for occupancy, ADR and RevPAR,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and chief executive officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Demand for these accommodations only continues to climb—both from guests and developers alike—making now the right time for Wyndham, the definitive leader in the economy segment, to bring our experience and expertise to this high-potential space.”
Economy extended-stay hotels are proven to consistently perform throughout all stages of the lodging cycle and are particularly resilient amid a downturn. During the global pandemic, U.S. RevPAR for the segment grew 8% versus 2019 while the rest of the industry declined 17%. Further, in 2021, the average U.S. occupancy for economy extended-stay hotels was over 78% — 20 points higher than all other U.S. segments combined.
A Developer-Driven Approach Project ECHO was created with the help of a seven-member development council, which consists of some of the largest and most experienced owners and operators currently in the economy extended-stay segment. The council’s insights are being paired with the experience and expertise of Wyndham’s in-house design and construction team. In recent years, the team has spearheaded the creation of La Quinta by Wyndham’s highly successful Del Sol prototype, currently at over 130 hotels with another 56 in its pipeline; and more recently, Microtel by Wyndham’s Moda prototype, which has another 40 hotels under development. At a time when rising construction costs are driving the need for ultra-efficiency, all three prototypes prioritize owner return on investment with an emphasis on value engineering and streamlined operations, helping optimize operating margins on a recurring basis.
“Wyndham not only understands its owners and developers but listens to and acts on their needs” said Carter Rise, chairman and chief executive officer, Sandpiper Lodging Trust. “That commitment, paired with best-in-class design and a deep, fundamental understanding of the economy guest, is a differentiator in our industry and is ultimately why we chose to partner with Wyndham.”
The purpose-built, 124-room Project ECHO prototype requires just under two acres of land, has a highly competitive cost per key, and features multiple characteristics that intentionally separate it from traditional economy brands. Coming in at just over 50,000 square-feet—nearly 74% of which is rentable—individual rooms average 300 square-feet and consist of single and two-queen studio suites with in-suite kitchenettes while efficiently-designed public spaces—a lobby, fitness center and guest laundry—help to limit labor needs.
“From day one, Wyndham has made a point of reaching out and asking, ‘What should be done differently?’ It wasn’t about dictating to us what the brand would be but rather, wanting to understand its potential and how our experience and expertise could best help developers meet their goals,” said Ian McClure, chief executive officer, Gulf Coast Hotel Management. “For us, that went a long way. It showed they’re committed to getting this brand right.”
Strategic Growth via Multi-Unit Operators With 50 hotels already in the initial pipeline—25 each from Sandpiper and Gulf Coast over the next five years—Wyndham is now eyeing additional growth opportunities. The brand expects to open its first hotel in 2023 and is actively talking to additional, multi-unit operators with experience in the segment, a key part of the brand’s growth strategy.
Wyndham intends to be thoughtful with early development partners, prioritizing brand integrity while building a robust multi-year pipeline. To assist qualified developers, the Company has identified possible development markets across the U.S. and will make available various incentives to select early developers. Wyndham is targeting at least 300 hotels over the next ten years in the U.S. with potential for additional growth internationally.
Industry-Leading Support, Experienced Extended-Stay Leadership Recognizing the immense importance of early franchisee success and the unique business model of economy extended-stay, Wyndham has assembled a dedicated leadership and operations support team around Project ECHO, one deeply rooted in experience with extended-stay brands.
Led by Vice President of Operations Dan Leh, a hospitality industry veteran with more than 25 years of extended-stay experience, the team brings extensive expertise across all facets of extended-stay operations, including but not limited to, design and construction, pre-opening operations, sales, revenue management, labor management, owner relations and more. Their efforts are complemented by dedicated Project ECHO sales teams, both at the local and national level, who will focus exclusively on matching hotels with Wyndham’s robust and expanding list of long-term guests across small, mid-size and Fortune 500 businesses.
On a broader scale, Project ECHO enables Wyndham to now offer guests and developers a portfolio of extended-stay offerings. Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham, the Company’s existing midscale extended-stay brand, is a pivotal part of the Company’s new dual-brand concept with La Quinta by Wyndham, which continues to see robust interest from developers with 36 hotels currently under development—two of which are being developed by Trusha Patel, inaugural member of Wyndham’s Women Own the Room program.
Additional details around Project ECHO—including the brand’s official name—are slated to be announced when the brand formally launches later this year. For more information, including development opportunities, visit www.projectecho.wyndhamhotels.com.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across approximately 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of over 810,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 92 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws, including the expected addition of hotels and similar statements concerning possible future results or performance. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees of future results or performance, speak only as of the date of this press release and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including the risks described in Wyndham Hotels and Resorts most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, any of which could cause actual results or performance to be materially different from the future results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise.
Innovative Program Helps Advance and Empower Women Entrepreneurs Through Hotel Ownership
PARSIPPANY, N.J., March 8, 2022 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries – announced today the addition of two new women hoteliers as part of the brand’s “Women Own the Room” initiative, on the heels of last month’s first two signed agreements. Designed to advance and empower women entrepreneurs to break through the predominantly male-dominated hotel industry, the “Women Own the Room” program provides assistance with financial solutions, personalized operational support, and networking and educational opportunities. These impressive new program members will be opening new hotels in Dover, Del and Warrenton, Va.
“Women want to own and develop hotels – the momentum we’re seeing proves it – they’ve just lacked trusted partners and advocates who will help guide them in their pursuits,” said Lisa Checchio, Chief Marketing Officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “The mentorship opportunities and resources Women Own the Room provides are invaluable and will better inspire and prepare future generations of women hoteliers.”
Wyndham celebrated its first “Women Own the Room” signed agreements with new owner Trusha Patel in January 2022 for the debut of two new La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites dual-branded hotels in Texas. The two new women entrepreneurs announced as members are:
Hetal Christian, just opened a Wyndham Garden hotel in Dover, Del. Christian looks forward to the expanded development and operational support the program provides as she expands her portfolio into the profitable upper midscale segment.
Neha Jadhav, will open a La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites dual-branded hotel in Warrenton, Va. This new hotel will be her first new construction project.
While the tourism and hospitality industry workforce is comprised of 70% women, only 10% of development roles are held by them. “Women Own the Room” helps to clear the path for women eager to make their mark on the hospitality industry and aims to amend the lack of female representation in hotel ownership, real estate, and investment funding roles. With Wyndham’s longstanding commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion – including gender diversity, women’s economic empowerment and advancing women entrepreneurs – this program is a natural progression of the hotel brand’s efforts to create a level playing field within the hospitality industry.
In addition to extensive mentorship and networking opportunities, the program offers a development incentive program that provides meaningful Wyndham financing, discounts on initial fees and complimentary first-year operating services to support the success of hotels developed by women.
“There are so many paths available to take in hospitality. A new construction project provides me with new challenges, but also new barriers that Women Own the Room is helping me break through,” said Neha Jadhav. “Wyndham has helped me navigate this new territory, provided me with the necessary tools for future success, and given me the opportunity to share my experiences with other women hoteliers. I’m proud to help pave the way for others and look forward to supporting more women pursue their dream of hotel ownership.”
To get involved and stay up-to-date on the Women Own the Room’s upcoming events, visit www.womenowntheroombywyndham.com. Developers interested in collaborating with Wyndham can visit Wyndhamdevelopment.com or contact the Wyndham Franchise Development team by email at [email protected].
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across approximately 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of over 810,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 92 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
Kicking off today, Wyndham Rewards members can unlock weekly surprise offers during “Member Month,” including hotel discounts, bonus point offers and more.
PARSIPPANY, N.J. – (March 2, 2022) – Wyndham Rewards®, the world’s most generous rewards program spanning more than 50,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals, today announced the return of “Member Month,” a month-long celebration of Wyndham Rewards members featuring five weeks of exciting deals and discounts, available exclusively to members.
Every Wednesday throughout the month of March, Wyndham Rewards members can unlock a new surprise offer. Whether embarking on a bucket-list adventure or staying closer to home, Member Month rewards every type of traveler – with offers ranging from a mix of stay-based and at-home discounts, bonus point promotions and more. These weekly offers are available to all members globally—even those who enroll during the window of the promotion—and are stackable with other offers throughout the month.
“Member Month is all about celebrating and rewarding our Wyndham Rewards members,” said Lisa Checchio, chief marketing officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Last year, we handed out more than 600 million points alongside some of our richest offers; this year, we’re looking to top that number with five weeks of exclusive deals. It’s our way of saying thank you to all those members who, year-in and year-out, have helped make our program number one.”
The first Member Month offer drops today with a 40% bonus on purchased points before April 3, 2022 (Minimum point purchase required). Members can purchase up to 45,000 points per year at www.wyndhamrewards.com or via Wyndham’s mobile app, available for iOS and Android.
The latest Member Month offers, including terms and conditions on each offer are available for members at www.wyndhamrewards.com/membermonth. New deals launch every Wednesday in March and there is no limit to the number of deals members can take advantage of during the promotion.
About Wyndham Rewards
Named the number one hotel rewards program by readers of USA TODAY, Wyndham Rewards® is the world’s most generous rewards program with more than 50,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals worldwide. Designed for the everyday traveler, members earn a guaranteed 1,000 points with every qualified stay and may redeem points for a wide-range of rewards, including free nights at any of approximately 9,000 hotels or tens of thousands of vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally through affiliation with Wyndham Destinations and others. Wyndham Rewards has over 92 million enrolled members around the globe. Join for free today at www.wyndhamrewards.com. You’ve earned this.®
World’s largest hotel franchising company continues its growth trajectory across the region with new openings and brand entries
LONDON and PARSIPPANY, N.J. February 22, 2022 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries, continues to expand across Europe, Middle East, Eurasia and Africa (EMEA) with a number of recent hotel launches and a strong line-up of openings expected in 2022.
In 2021 Wyndham achieved nearly 70 new hotel signings across EMEA and a host of exciting openings. In addition, the company launched several multi-faceted initiatives to support and empower hotel partners across EMEA to innovate and respond to changes in demand and on-going travel restrictions.
In Europe, Wyndham furthered its footprint of over 300 hotels with the addition of 12 resorts in sought-after destinations including Turkey’s Aegean coast, Spain’s Costa del Sol, the beautiful island of Tenerife, secluded country estates in the UK and the Austrian Alps, all offering a range of options for guests seeking to combine business and leisure. The European growth trajectory also included important openings in key cities, such as the expansion of the upper-upscale Dolce Hotels and Resorts by Wyndham brand in Denmark with stylish hotels in Copenhagen and Odense and the launch of Trademark Collection by Wyndham through more conversions in Budapest, Bucharest, Thessaloniki, Brussels, Manchester and Sheffield.
Turkey saw a continuation of growth as Wyndham further cemented its position as the largest international hotel company by number of properties, reaching nearly 90 hotels with new openings across the country, as well as the debut of its economy brand Days Inn in Istanbul and Ankara.
In the Middle East, Wyndham continued to bring more accommodation options to Dubai, as the city officially welcomed the highly anticipated Expo 2020 global exhibition, with more openings under the Howard Johnson, Ramada, as well as the La Quinta and Days Inn by Wyndham brands, both launched in the market for the first time in 2021. Wyndham also bolstered its leisure offering in Oman with the launch of Wyndham Garden Salalah Mirbat, a waterfront resort in a popular destination in the Sultanate.
In India, Wyndham reached its 50th hotel mark, with new openings in culturally rich destinations including Jaipur, Varanasi, Mohali and Udaipur under the Ramada, Howard Johnson by Wyndham and the upscale Wyndham brand. The expansion is part of Wyndham’s commitment to growth for the sub-Indian continent with a development pipeline of approximately 30 hotels, with eight expected to open in 2022 alone.
Other EMEA highlights included the steady expansion of Ramada by Wyndham brand with an additional 18 new hotels across the region, including a broad range of destinations from Georgia (Tbilisi), the UK (Cheltenham), Romania (Targu Jiu), and more.
Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are proud to look back on what Wyndham has achieved across EMEA, despite the on-going challenges and disruption in the travel industry. We focused on strengthening our fruitful partnerships, adding more exciting destinations, and broadening the reach of our brands. Our growth is ultimately a testament to the resilience of our hotel partners and the value proposition Wyndham delivers to them. We are delighted to offer even more exciting hotels for our guests and look forward to working with our partners and teams across EMEA in 2022 and beyond.”
Some of the upcoming openings in 2022 will include:
• Wyndham’s first entry into Poland with the upscale Wyndham Wroclaw Old Town, slated to open this month. The hotel will feature 205 stylish guest rooms and a host of amenities in a central location near plenty of attractions and landmarks.
• Wyndham Garden Munich Messe in Germany, which will offer 267 modern guest rooms in the business district of the city. Recently opened, the hotel will add to the existing portfolio of 11 hotels in Munich from economy to upscale.
• Further growth of the Super 8 brand in Germany, with the 10th hotel under the brand to open in Koblenz in June in collaboration with GS Star.
• More additions under the Ramada, Ramada Encore and Days Inn by Wyndham brands in Turkey with new additions in Istanbul, Rize, Elbistan and more.
• Wyndham will open its TRYP brand for the first time in Greece with a stylish hotel in Corfu. Expected to open in April, TRYP by Wyndham Corfu Dassia will offer 48 rooms, contemporary interiors, and lush gardens.
• The debut of the Wyndham’s namesake brand in Cyprus with the upscale Wyndham Nicosia. The hotel will offer elegant accommodation in Nicosia’s main square, alongside several leisure amenities and conference space.
• Continued expansion in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Georgia, including the highly anticipated Grigoleti Beach Resort, a new construction build, marking the first Trademark in the market.
• Additional development in the Middle East with the 278-room Wyndham Grand Doha West Bay Beach in Qatar, along with two more openings in Saudi Arabia.
• Further growth in India including Ramada by Wyndham Gangtok Hotel & Golden Casino in Gangtok City, featuring stunning views of the Himalayan range, and the launch of the 300-room Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Mumbai Sahar offering guests comfortable accommodations and direct accessibility to the second busiest airport in the country.
In 2021, Wyndham launched several new initiatives to support its EMEA hotel partners through the recovery, including a new host of revenue management tools rolled out with technology expert OTA Insight. The company also launched a new talent engagement program with educational sessions, podcasts, videos, and more resources to help hotel partners in EMEA attract, nurture, and retain team members.
Wyndham hotels in EMEA and around the world participate in Wyndham Rewards®, the world’s most generous hotel rewards programme with more than 50,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals worldwide.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across approximately 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of over 810,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveller, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty programme offers over 92 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
Exceeds Top End of Full-Year Outlook and Reports Largest Pipeline in Company’s History
Company Provides Full-Year 2022 Outlook
Board Increases Share Repurchase Authorization by $400 Million
PARSIPPANY, N.J., February 15, 2022 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2021. Highlights include:
S. RevPAR for the quarter exceeded 2019 levels by 9%, growing 58% versus 2020.
System-wide rooms grew 180 basis points year-over-year, including 70 basis points of growth in the U.S. and 350 basis points of growth internationally.
Diluted earnings per share for the quarter of $0.52 and net income of $48 million; diluted EPS for the full-year of $2.60 and net income of $244 million.
Adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.69 for the quarter and adjusted net income of $64 million; adjusted earnings per share for the full-year of $3.16 and adjusted net income of $297 million.
Adjusted EBITDA of $131 million for the quarter and $590 million for the full-year.
Net cash provided by operating activities for the full-year of $426 million and free cash flow of $389 million.
Returned over $190 million to shareholders for the full-year through share repurchases and dividends.
“With a 9% U.S. RevPAR increase and another 340 basis points of domestic market-share gains versus 2019 – we were very pleased with our performance this quarter as each month saw stronger growth than the month prior,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “New COVID variants did not impact our domestic, drive-to leisure travel business and consumer demand portends a very busy Spring Break for our franchisees. We enter 2022 with strong occupancy trends in the U.S., our largest ever development pipeline and a multitude of new technology services and marketing programs to enhance our franchisees’ top and bottom lines. In addition, our Board authorized a quarterly dividend of $0.32 per share and increased our share repurchase authorization, which reflects the ongoing strength of the business and our strong free cash flow.”
Fourth Quarter 2021 Operating Results Fee-related and other revenues increased 43% to $314 million primarily reflecting strong ADR growth in the U.S., which drove fourth quarter U.S. RevPAR 9% above 2019 levels.
The Company generated net income of $48 million, or $0.52 per diluted share, an increase of $55 million, or $0.60 per diluted share, reflecting an increase in adjusted EBITDA and lower net interest expense. Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $131 million, an increase of 126% versus 2020. The increase of $73 million reflects the increase in fee-related and other revenues and lower excess marketing spend, partially offset by higher volume-related expenses due to the ongoing recovery in travel demand.
During the fourth quarter 2021, the Company’s marketing fund expenses exceeded revenues by $8 million; while in fourth quarter 2020, the Company’s marketing fund expenses exceeded revenues by $26 million.
Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the Company’s non-GAAP adjusted measures for all reported periods appear in the tables to this press release.
System Size
The Company’s global system grew 180 basis points, reflecting 70 basis points of growth in the U.S. and 350 basis points of growth internationally. As expected, these increases included strong growth in both the higher RevPAR midscale and above segments in the U.S. and the direct franchising business in China, which grew 5% and 15%, respectively. Fourth quarter room openings recovered to 97% of 2019 levels globally reflecting a 21% increase in domestic additions. The Company also achieved its goal of a 95% retention rate for the full year 2021.
RevPAR
Global and international RevPAR began to lap the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in January 2021, while the U.S. began to lap its onset in March 2021. As such, comparisons to 2019 (on a two-year, constant currency basis) are more meaningful when evaluating trends. On this basis, fourth quarter RevPAR in the U.S. exceeded 2019 levels by 9% while international RevPAR declined 19%. Global RevPAR recovered to 100% of 2019 levels. The 9% increase in the U.S. is primarily due to pricing power where average daily rate exceeded 2019 levels by 8%. The 19% international decline demonstrates sequential progress from a 25% decline in third quarter.
Fourth Quarter 2021 Business Segment Discussion
Hotel Franchising revenues increased 34% year-over-year to $270 million primarily due to the global RevPAR increase. Hotel Franchising adjusted EBITDA increased 66% to $128 million reflecting the growth in revenues and lower excess marketing spend, partially offset by higher volume-related expenses.
Hotel Management revenues increased 30% year-over-year to $122 million, including a $2 million increase in cost-reimbursement revenues, which have no impact on adjusted EBITDA. Absent cost-reimbursements, Hotel Management revenues increased $26 million, or 144%, to $44 million primarily due to the global RevPAR increase, as well as improved performance at the Company’s owned hotels. Hotel Management adjusted EBITDA increased $20 million year-over-year reflecting the revenue increases, partially offset by higher volume-related expenses.
Full-Year 2021 Operating Results Fee-related and other revenues increased 31% to $1,245 million primarily reflecting the recovery in travel demand and its impact on global RevPAR, as well as 2% growth in the Company’s global system size. Global RevPAR recovered to 88% of 2019 levels on a constant currency basis, including domestic RevPAR at 97% of 2019 levels.
The Company generated net income of $244 million, or $2.60 per diluted share, compared to net loss of $132 million, or $1.42 loss per diluted share, for the full-year 2020. Adjusted EBITDA for the full-year was $590 million, an increase of 76% versus 2020. The increase of $254 million in adjusted EBITDA primarily reflects the increase in fee-related and other revenues and marketing fund favorability, partially offset by higher volume-related expenses due to the recovery in travel demand throughout the year. The increase of $376 million, or $4.02 per diluted share, in net income reflects a further decline in after-tax special-item charges and lower net interest expense.
During full-year 2021, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $18 million; while in full-year 2020, the Company’s marketing fund expenses exceeded revenues by $49 million.
Development The Company awarded 655 new contracts this year. On December 31, 2021, the Company’s global development pipeline consisted of over 1,500 hotels and over 194,000 rooms, the highest level on record. The pipeline grew 5% year-over-year, including 3% domestically and 6% internationally. Approximately 65% of the Company’s development pipeline is international and 79% is new construction, of which approximately 35% has broken ground. Over 80% of the global development pipeline is in the midscale and above segments, including over 70% in the U.S.
Cash and Liquidity The Company generated $426 million of net cash provided by operating activities in the full-year 2021, compared to $67 million in 2020 and $100 million in 2019. The Company generated $389 million of free cash flow in the full-year 2021, which includes a benefit from the collection of prior year receivables that were outsized due to COVID deferrals.
At December 31, 2021, the Company had $171 million of cash on its balance sheet and over $900 million in total liquidity. The Company’s net debt leverage ratio was 3.2 times at December 31, 2021, within the Company’s 3 to 4 times stated target range, compared to 3.3 times at December 31, 2019.
Share Repurchases and Dividends During the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company repurchased approximately 994,000 shares of its common stock for $83 million at an average price of $83.42 per share. For the full-year 2021, the Company repurchased approximately 1.4 million shares of its common stock for $110 million at an average price of $80.60 per share. The Company’s Board of Directors recently increased the Company’s share repurchase authorization by $400 million.
The Company paid common stock dividends of $29 million, or $0.32 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2021 for a total of $82 million, or $0.88 per share, for the full-year 2021. The Company’s Board of Directors recently authorized a quarterly cash dividend of $0.32 per share of common stock beginning with the dividend that is expected to be declared in the first quarter of 2022.
Potential Sale of Owned Hotels During the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company decided to pursue the sale of its two owned hotels. As of December 31, 2021, the assets and liabilities of these owned hotels were reported in assets held for sale and liabilities held for sale on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. As a result of the plan to sell these owned hotels, in the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $6 million to reflect the expected value upon potential sale.
Full-Year 2022 Outlook The Company provided the following outlook for full-year 2022:
Net rooms growth of 2% to 4%.
RevPAR growth of 12% to 16% versus 2021, which is consistent with 2019 levels.
Fee-related and other revenues of $1.34 billion to $1.37 billion, a year-over-year increase of 8% to 10%.
Adjusted EBITDA of $605 million to $625 million, which is consistent with 2019 levels, and reflects a year-over-year increase of 3% to 6%.
Adjusted net income of $308 million to $320 million, which is consistent with 2019 levels, and reflects a year-over-year increase of 4% to 8%.
Adjusted diluted EPS of $3.28 to $3.40, based on a diluted share count of 93.9 million that excludes any share repurchases after December 31, 2021. Reflects growth up to 4% compared to 2019, and a year-over-year increase of 4% to 8%.
Free cash flow conversion from adjusted EBITDA of approximately 55%.
The Company views its growth in adjusted EBITDA compared to 2021 and 2019 as follows (in millions):
(a) Does not include any impact from the planned sale of the Company’s two owned hotels.
(b) Net income was $244 million and $157 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2019, respectively. Reconciliation can be found in the Table 7.
(c) In 2022, the expected termination payment of $84 million will be fully offset by the non-cash write-off of the related management contract intangible asset, as previously communicated. In 2021, includes (i) the effects of CorePoint’s prior asset dispositions, including $2 million of operational EBITDA and $19 million of termination fees and (ii) $4 million of operational EBITDA generated from assets yet to be sold. In 2019, includes (i) the effects of CorePoint’s prior asset dispositions, including $12 million of operational EBITDA and $7 million of termination fees and (ii) $9 million of operational EBITDA generated from assets yet to be sold.
(d) Primarily represents license fees paid by Travel + Leisure, the recovery of which is correlated to the recovery of vacation ownership sales at Travel + Leisure. This projection is based on internal estimates and will be updated as appropriate when Travel + Leisure provides an estimated vacation ownership interest sales projection for 2022.
More detailed projections are available in Table 8 of this press release. The Company is providing certain financial metrics only on a non-GAAP basis because, without unreasonable efforts, it is unable to predict with reasonable certainty the occurrence or amount of all of the adjustments or other potential adjustments that may arise in the future during the forward-looking period, which can be dependent on future events that may not be reliably predicted. Based on past reported results, where one or more of these items have been applicable, such excluded items could be material, individually or in the aggregate, to the reported results.
Conference Call Information Wyndham Hotels will hold a conference call with investors to discuss the Company’s results and outlook on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 8:30 a.m. ET. Listeners can access the webcast live through the Company’s website at www.investor.wyndhamhotels.com. The conference call may also be accessed by dialing 866 831-8713 and providing the passcode “Wyndham”. Listeners are urged to call at least five minutes prior to the scheduled start time. An archive of this webcast will be available on the website beginning at noon ET on February 16, 2022. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on February 16, 2022 at 800 723-0479.
Presentation of Financial Information Financial information discussed in this press release includes non-GAAP measures, which include or exclude certain items. These non-GAAP measures differ from reported GAAP results and are intended to illustrate what management believes are relevant period-over-period comparisons and are helpful to investors as an additional tool for further understanding and assessing the Company’s ongoing operating performance. The Company uses these measures internally to assess its operating performance, both absolutely and in comparison to other companies, and to make day to day operating decisions, including in the evaluation of selected compensation decisions. Exclusion of items in the Company’s non-GAAP presentation should not be considered an inference that these items are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring. Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the comparable non-GAAP measures for the reported periods appear in the financial tables section of this press release.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across approximately 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of over 810,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 92 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com. The Company may use its website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Disclosures of this nature will be included on the Company’s website in the Investors section, which can currently be accessed at www.investor.wyndhamhotels.com. Accordingly, investors should monitor this section of the Company’s website in addition to following the Company’s press releases, filings submitted with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any public conference calls or webcasts.
Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements related to the Company’s current views and expectations with respect to its future performance and operations, including revenues, earnings, cash flow and other financial and operating measures, share repurchases and dividends, restructuring charges and statements related to the coronavirus pandemic (“COVID-19”). Forward-looking statements include those that convey management’s expectations as to the future based on plans, estimates and projections at the time the Company makes the statements and may be identified by words such as “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “goal,” “future,” “outlook,” “guidance,” “target,” “objective,” “estimate,” “projection” and similar words or expressions, including the negative version of such words and expressions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, without limitation, general economic conditions; the continuation or worsening of the effects from COVID-19, its scope, duration, resurgence and impact on the Company’s business operations, financial results, cash flows and liquidity, as well as the impact on the Company’s franchisees and property owners, guests and team members, the hospitality industry and overall demand for travel; the success of the Company’s mitigation efforts in response to COVID-19; the Company’s performance during the recovery from COVID-19 and any resurgence or mutations of the virus; various actions governments, businesses and individuals continue to take in response to the pandemic, including stay-in-place directives (including, for instance, quarantine and isolation guidelines and mandates), safety mitigation guidance, as well as the timing, availability and adoption rates of vaccinations, booster shots and other treatments for COVID-19; concerns with or threats of other pandemics, contagious diseases or health epidemics, including the effects of COVID-19; the performance of the financial and credit markets; the economic environment for the hospitality industry; operating risks associated with the hotel franchising and management businesses; the Company’s relationships with franchisees and property owners; the impact of war, terrorist activity, political instability or political strife; risks related to restructuring or strategic initiatives; risks related to the Company’s relationship with CorePoint Lodging, Inc. (“CorePoint”) and the Company’s relationship with Highgate Holdings, Inc. and certain of its affiliates or subsidiaries following the closing of CorePoint’s sale; the Company’s ability to satisfy obligations and agreements under its outstanding indebtedness, including the payment of principal and interest and compliance with the covenants thereunder; risks related to the Company’s ability to obtain financing and the terms of such financing, including access to liquidity and capital; and the Company’s ability to make or pay, plans for, and the timing and amount of any future share repurchases and/or dividends, as well as the risks described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise.
PARSIPPANY, N.J., (February 15, 2022) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries, today announced it has been named to Forbes’ list of America’s Best Employers for 2022. Presented by Forbes in partnership with Statista, the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider, the annual list recognizes Wyndham as a top employer, with team members highly likely to recommend the Company to both family and friends.
The honor marks yet another accolade for Wyndham over the last year. Just last month, the Company received a perfect score for the fourth consecutive year on the 2022 Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index (CEI), recognizing Wyndham as a best place to work for LGBTQ+ Equality and this past October, Wyndham was named by Newsweek as one of America’s Most Loved Workplaces, ranking #4 among the top 100 companies.
“The strength of our company comes from the people within. This award reflects Wyndham’s long-standing commitment to fostering a workplace that encourages and supports the diverse contributions of our team members,” said Monica Melancon, chief human resource officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Our Count on Me service culture and core values of integrity, accountability, inclusivity, caring and fun make our company a special place to build a career and inspires incredible experiences for our team members and the people we serve.”
Wyndham is fiercely committed to the well-being of its employees and believes in creating environments where all team members can grow and succeed. Through the continuous development of impactful programs, team members have access to career advancement and educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and range of affinity business groups, helping to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workplace. What’s more, the company provides leading benefits, educational assistance, parental leave, exclusive team member travel perks and discounts, and promotes a culture designed to provide team members with a fulfilling work-life balance, including an ongoing commitment to flexible and hybrid options, enabling associates to do their best work in the place that works best for them.
To determine the rankings, Forbes and Statista selected employers through an independent survey applied to more than 60,000 American employees across 25 different industries. The evaluation was based on direct and indirect recommendations from employees who were asked to rate their willingness to recommend their own employers to friends and family. Employee evaluations also included other employers in their respective industries.
More information, including Forbes’ full list of America’s Best Employers for 2022, can be found here.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 803,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers 90 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
Achievement Marks Four Consecutive Years with a Perfect Score on Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index
PARSIPPANY, N.J., January 27, 2021 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) – the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries – announced today that it received a perfect score of 100 on the 2022 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality, administrated by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Wyndham is celebrating its fourth consecutive year earning a perfect score in this annual survey, further recognizing the company as a best place to work for LGBTQ+ Equality.
“Inclusivity is core to our values, and we respect differences in people, cultures, ideas, and experiences,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, chief executive officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “We understand that we only succeed by bringing together varying backgrounds and points of view, and we are dedicated to creating welcoming environments both internally for team members and in our hotels for guests.”
Deeply committed to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, Wyndham continuously infuses different perspectives into the workplace that reflect the company’s diverse customers and communities around the world and offers enhanced training to address racial inequality, anti-racism, and allyship. The company partners with leading organizations including National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association, and offers affinity groups such as PRIDE, which is sponsored and championed by members of the executive leadership team. In further support of fostering an inclusive environment where team members feel comfortable to be their authentic selves, Wyndham launched a campaign on International Pronouns Day that was dedicated to promoting awareness about pronouns and how team members can self-identify should they choose to do so.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is among 1,271 businesses rated in this year’s report. The CEI uses criteria based on equitable benefits for LGBTQ workers and their families; non-discrimination policies across business entities; supporting an inclusive culture; and corporate social responsibility. Wyndham’s efforts in satisfying all of the CEI’s criteria earned a 100 percent ranking and the designation as one of the Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality.
Wyndham has also been named to Ethisphere’s list of the world’s most ethical companies in 2019 and 2020, and in 2021 the company was named one of the best places to work in its home state of New Jersey by NJBIZ and was recognized by Newsweek as one of the Most Loved Workplaces for 2021 and Most Responsible Companies for 2022.
For more information on the 2021 Corporate Equality Index, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc.org/cei.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 803,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 90 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
About Human Rights Campaign Foundation
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people. Through its programs, the HRC Foundation seeks to make transformational change in the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people, shedding light on inequity and deepening the public’s understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, with a clear focus on advancing transgender and racial justice. Its work has transformed the landscape for more than 15 million workers, 11 million students, 1 million clients in the adoption and foster care system and so much more. The HRC Foundation provides direct consultation and technical assistance to institutions and communities, driving the advancement of inclusive policies and practices; it builds the capacity of future leaders and allies through fellowship and training programs; and, with the firm belief that we are stronger working together, it forges partnerships with advocates in the U.S. and around the globe to increase our impact and shape the future of our work.
The Company’s Newest Female Hotelier Signs a Multi-Property Agreement as Part of the Innovative Program Supporting the Advancement of Women-Owned Hotels
PARSIPPANY, N.J., January 25, 2021 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) – the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries – announced today its first signed agreement as part of its innovative “Women Own the Room” program. Trusha Patel, Founder and CEO, Platinum Holdings, becomes the pioneering program’s first member with two new construction La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites dual-branded hotels. The first-ever program by a major hotel company specifically targeting women’s advancement in hotel ownership, Wyndham’s recently launched “Women Own the Room” is designed to advance and empower women entrepreneurs to break through the predominantly male-dominated hotel industry and is a natural extension of Wyndham’s strong dedication to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
From Breaking the Glass Ceiling to Breaking Hotel Ground: “Women Own the Room” Supports Advancement of Women-Owned Hotels
Hospitality industry data shows that women are significantly underrepresented in hotel ownership, real estate, and investment funding roles. Research conducted by Castell Project in 2021 found that while the hospitality industry is one of the most diverse, it lags when it comes to diversity in senior positions and ownership. While women make up 70% of the tourism and hospitality workforce, they only make up 10% of hotel development roles. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is committed to gender diversity, women’s economic empowerment, and advancing women entrepreneurs to level the playing field.
“Hospitality is one of the most diverse industries in the world and we should be fostering that diversity at the highest levels including ownership,” said Lisa Checchio, Chief Marketing Officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “While the workforce in the tourism and hospitality industry is comprised of 70% women, only one woman enters hotel development for every 9.6 men. “Women Own the Room” is specifically designed to help overcome the common barriers women face in hotel development and help them open and run their hotels.”
Women Own the Room is built upon the pillars of
Delivering comprehensive financial solutions
Enhanced capital support
Reduced initial franchise fee
Available for new construction and conversion projects
Offering personalized and complimentary operational guidance & support
Personalized opening support
Best-in-class training
Complimentary services designed to help maximize revenue
Establishing an inclusive community for networking & education
Event topics to include: Tips on securing financing
Selecting sites and performing feasibility assessments
Success stories from women in hotel development
Wyndham’s new program aims to help address the nearly 50% of women in business who lack competent advisors to guide them through entrepreneurship by connecting females interested in the hotel business with established female hotel developers who successfully broke the mold. Additionally, the company offers a development incentive program that provides meaningful Wyndham financing, discounts on initial fees and complimentary first-year operating services to support the success of hotels developed by women.
“I grew up in the hospitality industry and have been involved in every facet of hotel ownership, from development to dispositions. When embarking on owning a hotel of my own, it was helpful to have access to the resources that Wyndham provides,” said Trusha Patel, Founder and CEO, Platinum Holdings. “With the support of Wyndham, I have the backing of the world’s largest hotel company behind me. This is an incredible opportunity to realize my personal hospitality objectives, and also an opportunity to inspire other women to fulfill their entrepreneurship goals.”
Two New La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites Dual-Brand Hotels
Ms. Patel will open two La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites dual-branded hotels in the rapidly growing Texas cities of Austin and Georgetown. Each hotel will offer a combined 125 guestrooms – 75 of which will feature the recently refreshed room design from La Quinta’s sought-after Del Sol prototype, and 50 will feature the updated Hawthorn room design including modern, well-equipped kitchens for extended-stay guests. This pairing of select-service and long-term lodging targets different types of travelers, bringing them together under one roof and allows Wyndham to provide options for travelers looking for extended-stays, especially in the growing midscale space. Background about the new hotels:
La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites Austin Airport — The hotel will be conveniently situated less than a mile from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, four miles from downtown Austin, and will be one of the closest hotels to the new Tesla Headquarters and Gigafactory. Guests can easily experience all that the city has to offer such as music and local bites on 6th street and Rainey Street, visiting the Texas State Capital, catching a concert at Austin360 Amphitheater, seeing a performance at Paramount Theatre, or visiting Circuit of Americas racing facility, which hosts the Formula One United States Grand Prix, Road Racing World Championship and more.
La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites Georgetown — Located 30 miles north of Austin along one of central Texas’ largest thoroughfares, Georgetown has experienced explosive growth over the last decade and has transformed into an independent economic hub. The 3.3-acre hotel will be part of Longhorn Junction, the 190-acre mixed use development, which will also welcome a brewery and a variety of restaurants and retail outlets. Guests of the hotel will be able to seamlessly explore the destination and can enjoy boating and fishing excursions on Lake Georgetown in the warmer months.
“Members of ‘Women Own the Room,’ will have access to the tools and support designed to help them achieve success every step of the way, from signing and breaking ground to welcoming their first guests. The program is designed to clear the path for women who are eager to make their mark in the hospitality industry,” said Chip Ohlsson, Chief Development Officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
As a leading hospitality brand, Wyndham is helping advance and champion diversity within the Company and the greater travel industry. Spanning multiple countries and continents, Wyndham team members are a widespread group of individuals with diverse interests and backgrounds who all come together to further one of the world’s most prominent hotel organizations. For three years in a row, the company received a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Equality Index, designating Wyndham as a best place to work as well, as having been named by DiversityInc as a noteworthy company for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
To get involved and stay up-to-date on Women Own the Room’s upcoming events, visit www.womenowntheroombywyndham.com. Developers interested in collaborating with Wyndham can visit Wyndhamdevelopment.com or contact the Wyndham Franchise Development team by email at [email protected].
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 803,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 90 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
As part of the Wyndham Business program, this new network of premium meetings-focused hotels offers meeting planners new incentives in desired markets, and streamlined multi-year bookings
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (November 9, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries, today announces the debut of The Meetings Collection, a new element of the brand’s Wyndham Business program. Initially launching with eight hotels and resorts located across the U.S. in highly sought-after meetings destinations and with plans to expand in the future, the Collection was created with the needs of meeting organizers in mind, to offer rewarding solutions and a simple, streamlined way to book multi-year meetings at different hotels across the collection.
“It is a pivotal time in the meetings and events industry, with group travel beginning to return to fully in-person and hybrid meetings,” said Carol Lynch, senior vice president, global sales, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “We are launching this collection to support planners during every phase of the process and are excited to be able to now offer a highly efficient way for them to source and book hotels at competitive rates, earn generous rewards, and deliver an exceptional experience for their group.”
The Collection’s portfolio is comprised of properties from brands including Wyndham Grand, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, Wyndham, and Dolce Hotels and Resorts, and provides planners with more than 900,000 collective square feet of flexible meeting space and over 4,400 total guestrooms in addition to signature experiences across markets. The following hotels and resorts are part of The Meetings Collection launch:
Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, Fla.
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek, Fla.
Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown, Pa.
Galt House Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, Louisville, Ky.
Wyndham Orlando Resort International Drive, Fla.
Silverado Resort and Spa, A Dolce by Wyndham, Napa, Calif.
Cheyenne Mountain Resort, A Dolce by Wyndham, Colorado Springs, Colo.
To better assist planners in creating a memorable and impactful experience for their groups, The Meetings Collection extends planners a way to save time and money while earning Wyndham Rewards® points when booking 2 or 3+ meetings. The offer includes:
Save up to 5% on total meeting revenue when you contract multiple meetings or events at participating hotels listed above*
Count on flexibility with up to 30% attrition*
Enjoy a streamlined contracting process through our dedicated sales team and a single point of contact for each meeting or event
Exclusive destination experiences at participating hotels
PLUS, earn up to 50,000 Wyndham Rewards points per meeting with options to redeem for free and discounted stays at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation
Rentals and much more! *
Signature destination experiences include a 3-night stay at Galt House, a Trademark Collection Hotel and two tickets to the Kentucky Derby; a 2-night stay at Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown with breakfast for two and four tickets to a home Steelers game; and an overnight stay at Silverado, a Dolce Resort, paired with a picnic basket lunch and complimentary wine tasting at a partner winery location.
Wyndham offers the world’s most generous rewards program for meeting planners, go meet. With no minimum spend requirement and no maximum point limit, paying guests who are Wyndham Rewards® members earn 10 POINTS per dollar or 1,000 points, whichever is more, for qualified stays at Wyndham Rewards hotels worldwide.
*Offer applies to two (2) or more meetings contracted at participating hotels simultaneously or within 30 days of the contract for the first meeting. All meetings must occur within 5 years of the first meeting date. For additional terms and conditions that apply, including details on savings and earning Wyndham Rewards points, please visit.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 803,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 90 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
About Wyndham Business Wyndham Business provides a suite of tools for meeting planners and travel advisors to save time and money, by simplifying business travel bookings. With special discounted rates, exclusive perks, and best-in-class business tools, Wyndham makes it easier to source the right hotels and help maximize efficiency. From transient travel and long-term stay projects to conferences and more, anytime you need to book 5+ rooms, Wyndham Business has you covered. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham-business.
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws, including the expected addition of hotels and similar statements concerning possible future results or performance. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees of future results or performance, speak only as of the date of this press release and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including the risks described in Wyndham Hotels’ most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, any of which could cause actual results or performance to be materially different from the future results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Wyndham Hotels undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise.
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