Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Archives

Mobile-enabled platform allows for quicker innovation while helping hotels enhance guest personalization, lower costs and boost operational efficiencies

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is rolling out Oracle’s OPERA Cloud Property Management to its hotels, making it the first major hotel company to adopt the system globally. The mobile-enabled offering allows operators to run their hotel from anywhere while team members can untether from the front desk to better serve guests throughout the property.

PARSIPPANY, N.J. AND AUSTIN, TEXAS (May 18, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with over 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries, today announced the roll out of the next-gen Oracle Hospitality OPERA Cloud Property Management (PMS) to its full-service hotels, making it the first major hotel company to adopt the system globally. The decision comes following successful pilots at nearly 50 Wyndham hotels over the last nine months.

Full-service hotels coming into the Wyndham portfolio, which includes brands like Wyndham Grand®, Ramada® by Wyndham, and Dolce® by Wyndham, will be placed on the new PMS while existing owners have the option of upgrading now or waiting until their existing PMS agreements expire. The Company anticipates approximately 20 percent of its full-service portfolio will adopt the new PMS in the next 12 months with the majority migrating to the system over the next several years.

Wyndham’s selection of OPERA Cloud for its full-service hotels represents the latest in a growing list of newly launched technology initiatives by the Company, all of which center on giving franchisees tools to help provide a competitive advantage amid the ongoing pandemic. Last September, the Company launched a new best-in-class customer data platform and prior to that, a fully reimagined mobile app, making it the first to bring mobile check-in and checkout to more than 6,000 economy and midscale hotels.

“The rollout of Oracle’s OPERA Cloud represents the next step in Wyndham’s continued digital transformation,” said Scott Strickland, chief information officer at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Not only does the system help our hotel owners deliver a better guest experience through a host of operational enhancements and efficiencies, it’s designed to lower their overall costs by eliminating the need for costly and difficult-to-maintain on-site hardware. Best of all, hotels can migrate to the system remotely in a matter of days, not weeks—allowing hotels, particularly conversions, to open faster.”

Through OPERA Cloud, Wyndham and its franchisees have the ability to easily:

• Scale in the cloud – Built specifically to run hotel operations, the PMS is flexible and can scale to meet the needs of each hotel without requiring installation and maintenance of on-site hardware.

• Enable mobile “anywhere” access – Operators can run their hotel from anywhere while team members can untether from the front desk to serve guests anywhere on property.

• Streamline operations – Easy integration with thousands of key partner interfaces means a smoother, more streamlined guest experience with the opportunity for enhanced personalization.

• Operate globally – Designed to meet fiscal requirements across more than 200 countries, operators can customize the system to operate in 20 languages.

• Enhance security and performance – The PMS is built on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, which helps hotels elevate the guest experience while helping to deliver higher performance, security and reliability.

“Wyndham’s progressive approach to its digital transformation provides a strategic advantage for its thousands of hotel owners and operators around the world,” said Alex Alt, general manager of Oracle. “Having OPERA Cloud in place allows franchisees to quickly and remotely enhance features for guests as the industry continues to evolve, which is going to be critical in maintaining a competitive edge.”

The rollout of OPERA Cloud builds upon the foundation of a broader, multi-year digital transformation for Wyndham, which in recent months has enabled the Company to quickly stand-up new tools and offerings to help drive more business to its franchisees—particularly from everyday business travelers, such as construction workers, utility workers, truckers and more. Among them are Wyndham Direct, a total booking, billing and payment solution for corporate customers that streamlines travel management with no minimum spend or stay requirements and Wyndham Business, a one-stop-shop for anyone looking to do business with Wyndham and its hotels. Learn more at www.wyndhamhotels.com/business.
Wyndham first began its digital transformation journey in 2016, which has since resulted in a shift to best-in-class, cloud-based property management systems, a single central reservation system for all 20 brands, and a flexible cloud service and sales platform.

About Oracle
Oracle offers integrated suites of applications plus secure, autonomous infrastructure in the Oracle Cloud. For more information about Oracle (NYSE: ORCL), please visit us at oracle.com.
Oracle Hospitality brings more than 40 years of experience in providing technology solutions to independent hoteliers, global and regional chains, gaming, and cruise lines. Our hardware, software, and services enable customers to act on rich data insights that deliver personalized guest experiences, maximize profitability and encourage loyalty. Cloud-based, mobile-enabled, with open APIs, Oracle’s OPERA Cloud property management and distribution, Simphony point-of-sale, reporting and analytics, and Nor1 upsell solutions accelerate innovation, increase revenue, lower IT cost, and maximize operating efficiency. Our Hospitality Resource Center features an array of information to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in an altered marketplace. To learn more, please visit www.oracle.com/Hospitality.

Trademarks
Oracle is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation.

Company’s global conversion growth continues, generating 70% of global room additions in first quarter as owners recognize company’s loyalty program drives nearly 40% of all hotel stays

Origin Westminster, a Wyndham Hotel

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (May 10, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with over 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries, remains on a steady growth trajectory around the world and is continuing to debut new properties and enter new destinations. In a year of significant challenges for the hospitality industry, Wyndham strengthened its portfolio to generate sequential growth in system size and its development pipeline. The company’s non-urban, drive-to economy and midscale hotels, combined with ongoing investment in sales and marketing, helped capture rising pent-up leisure travel demand, which continued to drive sequential RevPAR improvements and domestic market share gains for franchisees.

In the first quarter of 2021, Wyndham converted 52 independent and branded hotels to one of its 20 brands, accounting for over 70% percent of its global room additions. The brand’s overall development pipeline has continued to expand both domestically and internationally with new conversion opportunities. The company awarded 112 new franchise contracts in the first quarter of 2021, and by March 31 the development pipeline had grown sequentially from Q4 to approximately 1,400 hotels and approximately 187,000 rooms.
“Our portfolio of iconic hotel brands offers a wide range of experiences and price points for guests as well as strong opportunities for franchisees and developers,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Our global sales, marketing and loyalty teams are looking forward to helping more travelers discover all these new hotels.”
A selection of the company’s recent hotel conversions to date are noted below by region.

Americas

Wyndham signed a nine-hotel franchise agreement in Q1 with The Thrash Group for its namesake, upscale, Wyndham® brand in the U.S. The nine hotels, all managed by Charlestowne Hotels, span across the U.S. and include a mix of lifestyle-focused boutique hotels, historic hotels and new construction hotels scheduled to open later this year and next. “Converting our hotels to Wyndham has allowed us access to new resources and further opportunities, which supports us in running our business proficiently,” said Ike Thrash, founding partner, The Thrash Group. “That paired with the award-winning brand’s recognition will help contribute to my Thrash’s overall success and hopefully further development of additional Wyndham properties.”

In downtown San Francisco, The BEI Hotel in San Francisco, is another recent conversion for the Trademark Collection that is scheduled to open in May. Located by the Financial District and Union Square, guests can stay in the heart of the city and enjoy well-appointed guest rooms, a fitness center and other inviting amenities. Just 14 miles from San Francisco International Airport and 20 miles from Oakland International Airport, this contemporary, hotel is surrounded by world-class restaurants and minutes from Civic Center Plaza, Moscone Center, and Union Square. And on Long Island, N.Y., the award winning and LEED certified Viana Hotel & Spa converted to a Trademark by Wyndham.
New conversion hotels in the Caribbean include the Kunuku Resort All Inclusive in Curacao along with the Turtle Island Beach Resort, in Belize — both of which are converting to Trademark Collection by Wyndham. The most recently awarded Caribbean franchise contract is to The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort in St. Croix, an upscale property that will be converting to Wyndham’s Trademark Collection and mark the first Wyndham Hotels & Resorts property in St. Croix. The family owned and operated 340-acre resort is the island’s only four-star resort, offering 130 guest-rooms and suites.
In Latin America, TRYP by Wyndham Guayaquil, Ecuador was recently converted to a Wyndham as part of the company’s urban lifestyle brand. The centrally located hotel is steps away from the city’s top dining venues, the Mall del Sol and the Guayaquil Convention Center.

Asia Pacific

In Asia Pacific, the Company’s expansion continues where the number of its executed deals in the pipeline are nearly 50% larger than it was a year ago. Conversion activity was strong, with a 5 star hotel in Xin Yang Henan Province, China converting to the Wyndham Xin Yang. The company also recently welcomed the Ramada Encore by Wyndham Shanghai Pudong Airport. With more than 1,500 hotels in 20 regional markets and territories, the company is in a leading position within the region and is on track to reach 2,000 hotels in Asia Pacific within the next three years.

Europe

In Europe, the recent March opening of Hotel Avenue Louise Brussels, Trademark Collection by Wyndham marked Wyndham’s first Trademark Collection hotel in Belgium. The 78-room stylish hotel underwent a $3.1 million refurbishment and offers guests the perfect balance between comfort and local charm in the heart of Brussels.

Middle East

The debut of the very first La Quinta by Wyndham brand in the Middle East was will be made with the 100-room La Quinta by Wyndham Dubai Bur Dubai, in one of the city’s bustling commercial hubs offering easy access to leisure attractions. The newly refurbished hotel will open in May boasting contemporary guest rooms and elegant interiors.

Interested developers can visit the Wyndham Franchise Development website, or contact the Wyndham Franchise Development team by email at [email protected] for more information.

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 nearly 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of over 797,000 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 20 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 87 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.

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws, including the expected addition of hotels within the Asia Pacific Region 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.

We are extremely concerned and saddened about the growing humanitarian crisis in India resulting from the rapid spread of COVID-19 cases. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is donating $100,000 to the Indian Red Cross Society, which is working alongside authorities to help the people of India by rushing urgently needed supplies and equipment to critical care centers.

We are also working to collaborate with industry associations on broader efforts to raise funds to support India through this crisis and call on others to show their support with matching funds. We have made it possible for Wyndham Rewards members to help by donating points to Save the Children and Christel House, which support families and children in India. Our team members are supporting their colleagues in India through our Wyndham Relief Fund and can also donate directly to a number of qualified 501(c)(3) organizations with a company match. Our team members around the world stand united with our hotel owners, our local colleagues and the broader Indian community.

Company updates 2021 projections

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (April 28, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months ended March 31, 2021. Highlights include:

Diluted earnings per share was $0.26, and adjusted diluted earnings per share was $0.36.
Net income was $24 million and adjusted net income was $33 million.
Adjusted EBITDA was $97 million.
Generated $64 million of net cash provided by operating activities and $59 million of free cash flow.
Global RevPAR declined 11% compared to first quarter 2020 and 31% compared to first quarter 2019 in constant currency.
Paid quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per share.
Redeemed all $500 million aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 5.375% Senior Notes due 2026 on April 15, 2021.
Company updates its previous 2021 projections.

“Wyndham’s select-service franchise business model delivered a strong start to 2021 as leisure customers hit the road at a pace not experienced since the pandemic started and demand from our everyday business travelers continued to accelerate,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “We were very pleased to see our development pipelines grow sequentially, both domestically and internationally, and our room openings and deletions improve year-over-year. We were also encouraged to see conversion room openings increase year-over-year, representing over 70% of total openings this quarter.”

Revenues declined from $410 million in the first quarter of 2020 to $303 million in the first quarter of 2021. The decline includes lower pass-through cost-reimbursement revenues of $55 million in the Company’s hotel management business, which have no impact on adjusted EBITDA. Excluding cost-reimbursement revenues, revenues declined $52 million primarily reflecting an 11% decline in constant-currency global RevPAR.

The Company generated net income of $24 million, or $0.26 per diluted share, compared to $22 million, or $0.23 per diluted share, in the first quarter of 2020. The increase of $2 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, was a result of the Company’s COVID-19 cost mitigation plan implemented in April 2020, lower volume-related expenses and the absence of restructuring and transaction-related expenses, which were partially offset by the global RevPAR decline.

The following discussion of first quarter operating results focuses on the Company’s key drivers as well as revenue and adjusted EBITDA for each of the Company’s segments. 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
Q1 System Size During the first quarter of 2021, the Company’s global system grew 20 basis points reflecting strong growth in the Company’s direct-franchising business in China, primarily offset by the impact from supply chain delays on new construction openings in the United States. As expected, terminations normalized in the first quarter and the Company remains solidly on track with its goal of achieving a 95% retention rate for the full year 2021.

RevPAR Q1 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 basis) are more meaningful when evaluating trends. On this basis, global RevPAR declined 31% reflecting a 25% decline in the U.S. and a 45% decline internationally. The 25% decline in the U.S. represents continued sequential improvement compared to a decline of 31% in the fourth quarter of 2020. The 45% decline internationally is consistent with the fourth quarter 2020 performance.

Business Segment Results Q1 Business Results Hotel Franchising revenues decreased $34 million year-over-year reflecting the global RevPAR decline, while adjusted EBITDA declined $5 million as the impact of the RevPAR decline was almost entirely offset by the Company’s COVID-19 cost mitigation plan implemented in April 2020 and lower volume-related expenses.

Hotel Management revenues decreased $73 million year-over-year reflecting a $55 million reduction in cost-reimbursement revenues, which have no impact on adjusted EBITDA. Absent cost-reimbursements, Hotel Management revenues decreased $18 million due to the global RevPAR decline and lower termination fees. Adjusted EBITDA declined $12 million year-over-year reflecting the revenue decrease, partially offset by lower volume-related expenses.

Development
The Company awarded 112 new contracts this quarter compared to 115 in first quarter 2020 and 124 in first quarter 2019. At March 31, 2021, the Company’s development pipeline consisted of approximately 1,400 hotels and approximately 187,000 rooms, growing sequentially by 120 basis points, 70 basis points domestically and 150 basis points internationally. Approximately 64% of the Company’s development pipeline is international and 75% is new construction. Approximately 34% of the new construction pipeline under development has broken ground.

Cash and Liquidity
The Company generated $64 million of net cash provided by operating activities in the first quarter of 2021 compared to $17 million in first quarter 2020. Free cash flow was $59 million in the first quarter of 2021 compared to $10 million (which included $15 million of special-item cash outlays) in first quarter 2020.

At March 31, 2021, the Company had $531 million of cash on its balance sheet and $1.3 billion in total liquidity. In April 2021, the Company redeemed all $500 million aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 5.375% senior notes due 2026, which also reduced the Company’s total liquidity to approximately $750 million. The Company expects this redemption to reduce its annual cash interest expense by approximately $27 million. Coupled with the issuance of 4.375% senior notes in August of 2020, this redemption effectively returns the Company to pre-pandemic debt and liquidity levels while extending $500 million of maturity by approximately 2.5 years at a 100 basis point (or 19%) lower interest rate.

Dividends
The Company paid common stock dividends of $15 million, or $0.16 per share, in the first quarter of 2021.

2021 Projections
The Company is not providing a complete outlook for full-year 2021 given the RevPAR uncertainties ahead; however, the Company is updating the projections provided in February:

Net rooms growth of 1% to 2%, consistent with February’s projection.
Every point of RevPAR change versus 2020 is now expected to generate approximately $2.8 million of adjusted EBITDA change versus 2020 (increased from $2.5 million per point in February).
License fees are expected to be $70 million reflecting the minimum levels outlined in the underlying agreements, consistent with February’s projection.
Marketing, reservation and loyalty expenses are not expected to exceed marketing, reservation and loyalty revenues, consistent with February’s projection. As such, the Company expects no meaningful impact to full-year 2021 adjusted EBITDA from the marketing, reservation and loyalty funds.
The Company does not expect any meaningful special-item cash outlays in 2021, consistent with February’s projection.

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 Thursday, April 29, 2021 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 877 876-9174 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 29, 2021. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on April 29, 2021 at 800 723-0549.

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 nearly 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of over 797,000 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 20 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 87 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 Wyndham Hotels’ current views and expectations with respect to its future performance and operations, including revenues, earnings, cash flow and other financial and operating measures 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 Wyndham Hotels 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 Wyndham Hotels 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 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 in any recovery from 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; concerns with or threats of pandemics, contagious diseases or health epidemics, including the effects of COVID-19 and any resurgence or mutations of the virus and actions governments, businesses and individuals take in response to the pandemic, including stay-in-place directives and other travel restrictions; risks related to restructuring or strategic initiatives; risks related to the Company’s relationship with CorePoint Lodging; 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 as a result of COVID-19; 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.

Contacts

Investors:
Matt Capuzzi
Senior Vice President, Investor Relations
973 753-6453
[email protected]

Media:
Dave DeCecco
Group Vice President, Global Communications
973 753-6590
[email protected]

Company affirms commitment to sustainability and momentum in diversity, equity, and inclusion

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (April 28, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) – the world’s largest hotel franchising company with over 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries and territories – today released its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report highlighting its commitment to operate in a way that is socially, ethically and environmentally responsible.

“As the world’s largest hotel company, we have a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the world while delivering on our mission to make hotel travel possible for all,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Now, more than ever, we must help ensure the future remains bright for travelers while we continue to build a culture in which all people feel welcomed and appreciated.”

Community and COVID-19 Response
As a hospitality company, service and volunteering are part of Wyndham’s culture. Team members and franchisees rallied during the pandemic to actively engage in their communities, generously giving time and resources to enhance the lives of others. The examples are numerous, and include:

The Wyndham Garden Dallas North in Texas, which offered 300 hotel rooms to first responders during the height of the pandemic.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Niagara Falls, N.Y., where the hotel owner and his family handcrafted more than 2,000 facemasks for the community when they were desperately needed.
The Ramada Suites by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown, New Zealand welcomed eight new babies when the nearest hospital had to relocate its maternity ward due to the pandemic.

Wyndham’s owner-first mindset enabled the vast majority of franchisees – who are primarily small business owners – to keep their hotels open during the pandemic when people were traveling less. The company offered multiple fee waivers and extensions, access to hospital-grade cleaning and safety products at reduced prices when these items were difficult to source, and relaxed housekeeping requirements that helped reduce water and energy use. Whether hotels are welcoming leisure guests looking for an escape to national parks and beaches, or hosting everyday business travelers such as utility workers and construction crews, the company’s “Count on Us” health and safety protocols continue to provide guests peace of mind when they stay with Wyndham.

Commitment to Sustainability
Wyndham is committed to operating sustainably in a way that provides outstanding experiences to those it serves. The company created the Wyndham Green Program, a five-level certification program that helps reduce a hotel’s environmental footprint. The program includes a proprietary environmental management tool that tracks data to help hotels improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, conserve water, and reduce waste. The company’s work has been recognized through its participation in CDP’s carbon disclosure climate change program, where Wyndham achieved the leadership band for sustainability performance and disclosure.

Our Focus on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Wyndham strives to maintain a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion across its organization. The company has increased senior leadership engagement in its Affinity Business Groups and continues to build on its robust Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training programs. For the third year 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.

“We respect differences in people, ideas, and experiences, and we understand that we can only truly succeed by bringing together varying backgrounds and points of view. While we have been recognized for the progress we have made on our journey to date, we know we can – and will – continue to do more,” said, Monica Melancon, chief human resource officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts prepared its ESG report in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards, integrating the recommendations of the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). The company obtained third-party assurance over selected data disclosed in this report, as indicated by the 2020 Assurance Statement included in the report. All financial figures indicated in the report are in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted.

Turtle Island Beach Resort Marks Wyndham’s Third Hotel in the Country

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (April 7, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with over 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries, today announces the opening of Turtle Island Beach Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham in Belize. The hotel operated by Wyndham Hotels & Resort’s management division is set on a private island on the west side of pristine Ambergris Caye, just five minutes by boat from San Pedro Town. Owned by Castle Capital Investment LTD, the resort marks the third Wyndham-branded hotel in Belize and the second hotel on the island to convert to the Trademark Collection by Wyndham.

Launched in 2017, Trademark Collection by Wyndham is designed for travelers seeking distinctive, attainable accommodations in sought-after destinations, with each Trademark hotel maintaining its own unique attributes. The addition in Belize is the latest in the brand’s fast growth trajectory around the world over the past four years, with approximately 115 hotels in the U.S., Canada, Belize, Mexico, Sint Maarten, Curacao, Australia, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium.

“We are on a strong growth trajectory for Trademark Collection by Wyndham and we look forward to continuing this momentum,” said Scott LePage, President Americas, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “This growth is not only a testament to Trademark’s value as a compelling brand, but also the value of the Wyndham brand recognition, which is so important in a time when travelers are looking to names and brands they trust for their future travels.”

Turtle Island Beach Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham offers eight beach houses and five pet-friendly villas with sweeping water views, as well as an infinity pool, spa, fitness center, beach bar, and signature Turtle Island Restaurant. With its location just offshore, Ambergris Caye is largely protected from the strong currents of the Caribbean by the stunning Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Easily accessible from the mainland, the hotel offers a quick five-minute, complimentary boat transfer for guests from San Pedro Town.

The resort’s villas offer two bedrooms with a full kitchen, terrace and a private pool ideal for enjoying sunset, while the beach houses feature one bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with a thatched roof, offering the best sunrise views. Guests can enjoy complimentary kayak and paddleboard experiences right at the resort’s beach, or world-class snorkeling and diving expeditions at the nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Mexico Rocks. The hotel also features a turtle sanctuary lagoon where three turtles are being nurtured back to health.

Belize has seen significant recent hotel development growth. According to the latest numbers released by the Belizian Tourism Board (BTB), the revenue generated in the accommodation sector has increased year over year for 10 years until the global pandemic. Turtle Island Beach Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham joins two additional Wyndham properties in Belize, Ramada by Wyndham Princess Belize City, and Costa Blu Beach Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham.

“The resort is an idyllic private island escape with an incredible natural setting for outdoor exploration, relaxation and personal service. We are able to provide our guests a unique all-encompassing five star experience at our private island retreat,” added Daniel Reigl, General Manager, Turtle Island Beach Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham.

Wyndham hotels in Belize and around the world participate in Wyndham Rewards®, the world’s most generous rewards program with thousands of 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, gift cards, merchandise and more.

About Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Each of Trademark Collection by Wyndham’s upper-midscale-and-above hotels around the world – from landmark hotels in Germany and Switzerland to its flagship hotel, The Galt House Hotel in Louisville, Ky. – boast three common attributes: character, charm, and individuality. Launched in 2017, Trademark Collection is geared to three- and four-star hotel owners passionate about upholding their hotels’ independent spirit and designed for everyday travellers seeking distinctive, attainable accommodations in sought-after destinations. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com/trademark.

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (April 8, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with over 8,900 hotels across 95 countries, today announced that the International Franchise Association (IFA) has appointed Marcus Banks, Senior Vice President of Litigation, Employment Law, Government Relations & Information Management, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to its Board of Directors.

Banks’ appointment is part of a larger unveiling of seven new members of IFA’s, Board of Directors, which includes top leaders representing franchisors, franchisees, and suppliers from leading organizations across multiple industries.

“I am thrilled with the addition of Marcus Banks to our Board of Directors,” said IFA Board Chair Catherine Monson. “His legal and business experience representing one of the largest hotel franchisors in the world, Wyndham Hotels, will provide invaluable experience to our board.”

“It is an incredible honor to be joining IFA’s board of directors along with such a distinguished group of professionals as franchise businesses emerge from the global pandemic,” said Banks. “IFA does tremendous work on behalf of the franchise community and I look forward to supporting them as they provide industry-leading events, advocacy, education and growth opportunities to the franchise community.”

Prior to Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ spin-off from Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (WWC) in 2018, Banks served as Senior Vice President – Litigation, Employment Law and Intellectual Property, for WWC. Banks started his franchise career at the Hospitality Division of Cendant Corporation in May 2001. He has written and spoken about various franchise law topics, including litigation management, vicarious liability defense, bankruptcy and mediation.

To view IFA’s full announcement of its seven new, Board of Directors, click here.

About the International Franchise Association
Celebrating 60 years of excellence, education, and advocacy, the International Franchise Association is the world’s oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations, and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising and the more than 733,000 franchise establishments that support nearly 7.6 million direct jobs, $674.3 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy, and 2.5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology, and business development.

Offers a $5,000 pay day plus travel expenses for one hard-working, vacation-ready American

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (March 16, 2021) – Dust off that suitcase and draft a clever out of office reply, because Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with more than 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries, is on a mission to give one lucky American the best job ever.

Now through April 6, 2021, Wyndham is taking nominations for “Operation Out of Office” (Operation OOO), a new initiative seeking to recognize one hard-working, extra-deserving, “pack my bags because I’m ready to go” American with two weeks of vacation and a paycheck for $5,000. The catch? In exchange for the payday, the chosen nominee will be asked to share their travels on their favorite social media networks, providing inspiration for other vacation-ready travelers.

The initiative comes following reports from the United States Travel Association (USTA) that American workers left an average of 33% of their paid time off (PTO) on the table last year^[i], despite working even longer hours.^[ii] As the lines continue to blur between work and life, Wyndham is looking to restore a little bit of balance for one overworked traveler and up to three companions of their choice—even if that means paying to make it happen. Well-known Wyndham brands include, La Quinta® by Wyndham, Days Inn® by Wyndham, Super 8® by Wyndham, Ramada® by Wyndham and Wyndham Grand®, among others. With more than 6,000 hotels across the U.S., chances are there’s a Hotel by Wyndham just 10 minutes away.

“Every year, millions of Americans leave PTO on the table as they immerse themselves in work, family and the hustle of daily life,” said Lisa Checchio, executive vice president and chief marketing officer at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Operation OOO is about recognizing those Americans and making the point that now, more than ever, we all need to carve out time to relax, recharge and get away. If it takes us paying someone to help get that message across, then that’s money well spent!”

Those looking to nominate a deserving friend, family member, co-worker—or even themselves—as part of Operation OOO can do so by submitting a short essay of up to 100 words. Submissions should offer a window into the life of the nominee and why they are deserving of a getaway. To submit a nomination, or to view terms and conditions, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com/outofoffice.

Following the submission deadline on April 6, 2021, one lucky nominee will be chosen to receive 14 nights at the Wyndham hotel (or hotels) of their choosing along with a $250 per day travel stipend and a complimentary upgrade to Wyndham Rewards® Diamond membership. (Hotel nights will be provided in the form of 420,000 Wyndham Rewards points, enough for 14 nights at any participating Wyndham Rewards hotel.) Upon booking travel, the nominee will also receive a paycheck for $5,000, equating to a payday of $2,500 for each week of travel. What’s more, travel dates are flexible (just stay by December 31, 2021) and can be divided across multiple trips.

Added Checchio, “Some jobs are hard. This isn’t one of them. If you want to get paid to sit on the beach for two weeks, go for it. Always dreamed of seeing the sights along Route 66? Have at it. Looking to check Yellowstone off your bucket list? Do it. This is about experiencing the joy that can only come from travel and knowing that wherever you want to go, whatever you want to do, Wyndham will be there to welcome you.”

As the travel landscape evolves amid COVID-19, Wyndham and its brands remain committed to the health and safety of guests and team members. The vast majority of hotels are open and welcoming guests with flexible booking policies and enhanced health and safety protocols through Wyndham’s Count on Us® initiative. Guests can also take advantage of mobile check-in and checkout at more than 6,000 hotels thanks to the Company’s all new mobile app, available for both iOS and Android. Wyndham has extended current Wyndham Rewards member benefits through the end of 2021 and paused points expiration through June 30, 2021. Learn more at www.wyndhamhotels.com/COVID-19.

About Wyndham Rewards
Recently 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 over 8,900 hotels or thousands of vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally through affiliation with Wyndham Destinations and others. Wyndham Rewards has 86 million enrolled members around the globe. Join for free today at www.wyndhamrewards.com. You’ve earned this.®

^[i] “National Plan for Vacation Day – US Travel Association.” https://www.ustravel.org/sites/default/files/media_root/document/NPVD_FactSheet-2021.pdf. Accessed 3 Feb. 2021.

^[ii] “Collaborating During Coronavirus: The Impact of COVID-19 on the ….” 30 Jul. 2020, https://www.nber.org/papers/w27612. Accessed 3 Feb. 2021.

New-build, dual-brand hotel will be Wyndham’s first pairing of these celebrated select-service and extended-stay lodging brands

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (March 4, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) – the world’s largest hotel franchising company with over 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries and territories – announced today the first groundbreaking of its new La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites dual-brand hotel concept in Pflugerville, Texas. This marks the first-ever pairing of these two flags under the same roof and enables owners to target both the business transient and extended-stay demand within any given market. The company has 36 La Quinta and Hawthorn dual-branded hotels in its development pipeline in markets such as San Antonio and El Paso, Texas; Yuma, Ariz.; Wichita, Kan.; Charlotte, N.C.

The property is slated to open in March 2022 with a combined 100 guestrooms – 30 of which will feature the recently updated Hawthorn room design that includes modern, well-equipped kitchens for extended-stay guests. This hotel will also feature the newly refreshed room design from La Quinta’s sought-after Del Sol prototype in 70 rooms. This new dual-brand hotel concept is designed to streamline development and operational costs. The concept includes a shared lobby, spacious modern great room, fitness center, bar, amenities, and back of the house all while appealing to the multiple types of travelers that have an affinity for these brands. The combination enhances Wyndham’s suite of offerings for developers by coupling its leading upper-midscale brand, La Quinta, with its benchmark, extended-stay Hawthorn Suites brand that reported a 44 percent year-over-year increase in domestic contract executions during 2020.

Conveniently located at Pflugerville’s Stone Hill Town Center, just 15 miles northeast of Austin, the hotel provides easy access to the area’s more than 1,000 acres of scenic parks, trails and open spaces. The growing suburb of Pflugerville has seen significant business and residential growth, with a nearly 40 percent population increase in the past 10 years.

“We’re delighted to expand our portfolio with this new dual-branded hotel, providing these two distinct accommodations under one roof to meet the diverse needs of today’s travelers and provide operational efficiencies for developers,” said Krishna Paliwal, Wyndham’s president of La Quinta and head of architecture, design, and construction. “Our powerful marketing and sales programs for both La Quinta and Hawthorn will combine to drive reservations to this hotel. The industry-leading Wyndham Rewards program, now 86 million members strong, drives 46 percent of all U.S. hotel stays across our portfolio.”

With La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites targeting different types of travelers, this brand pairing offers a unique opportunity to introduce a new subset of consumers to Wyndham’s strong upper-midscale and midscale portfolio. By bringing select-service and long-term lodging together under one roof, Wyndham is tapping into the steady and strong appetite developers and travelers have for extended-stay, especially in the midscale space which is expected to continue the high growth that it is seeing today.

Interested developers can visit Wyndham’s dual-brand development website, or contact the Wyndham Franchise Development team by email at [email protected] for more information.

About La Quinta by Wyndham
With nearly 940 destinations in the Americas and Europe, the upper-midscale La Quinta by Wyndham brand is a bright spot in every travelers’ journey. Whether traveling for business or leisure, guests can rest assured, relax, and recharge thanks to the brand’s free Bright Side Breakfast®, spacious in-room work areas, and free high-speed internet. For more information about franchising a La Quinta hotel, visit the La Quinta franchise development website.

About Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham
Travelers can keep their routines in check when staying longer at approximately 90 Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham extended stay hotels in the U.S., Europe and the Middle East. Creating a welcoming, home-away-from-home experience is what Hawthorn Suites does best, thanks to spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens, guest laundry facilities, and fitness centers. For more information about franchising a Hawthorn Suites, visit the Wyndham franchise development website.

Each week reveals a new offer; kicks off today with a 40% bonus on point purchases

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (March 3, 2021) — Wyndham Rewards®—the world’s most generous rewards program with more than 50,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally—today announced the launch of “Member Month,” a new initiative celebrating Wyndham Rewards members with five weeks of special deals and savings.

Every Wednesday through March 31, Wyndham Rewards members in the U.S. and Canada can expect a new surprise offer to go into effect, ranging from discounts on hotels in popular destinations to bonus point offers and more. With travel looking a bit different this year, the month-long celebration has a variety of options for members, with deals and offers that can be redeemed both in the short and long term as well as on the road and at home.

“For us, this month is not only about celebrating our Wyndham Rewards members, but giving travelers a reason to celebrate and get excited for trips to come,” said Eliot Hamlisch, EVP, Loyalty and Revenue Optimization at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Whether it’s a staycation this weekend or that once-in-a-lifetime future trip you’re planning, Wyndham Rewards is proud to offer a lineup of deals that cater to every traveler, whenever you’re ready to travel next. After all, you’ve earned this.”

Member Month kicks off today with a big bonus on Wyndham Rewards points purchases. Now through April 5, 2021, purchases come with a 40% bonus. (Minimum point purchase required.) Members can purchase up to 45,000 points per year and may do so at www.wyndhamrewards.com or via Wyndham’s all-new mobile app, available for iOS and Android.

Those seeking the latest Member Month offers, along with terms and conditions for each offer, can easily find them by visiting www.wyndhamrewards.com/membermonth. While new deals will launch weekly, most will run for at least two weeks or more, allowing members to take advantage of multiple offers throughout the month. Membership in Wyndham Rewards is required and the program is free to join.

As the travel landscape evolves in the wake of COVID-19, Wyndham and its brands remain committed to the health and safety of guests and team members. Most hotels are open and welcoming guests with flexible booking policies and enhanced health and safety protocols through Wyndham’s Count on Us® initiative. Guests can also take advantage of mobile check-in and checkout at more than 6,000 hotels thanks to the Company’s new mobile app. Wyndham has extended current Wyndham Rewards member benefits through the end of 2021 and paused points expiration through June 30, 2021. Learn more at www.wyndhamhotels.com/COVID-19.

About Wyndham Rewards
Recently 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 over 8,900 hotels or thousands of vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally through affiliation with Wyndham Destinations and others. Wyndham Rewards has 86 million enrolled members around the globe. Join for free today at www.wyndhamrewards.com. You’ve earned this.®

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