With room openings doubled year-over-year, adventure-focused economy brand accelerates growth with new initiatives aimed to lower costs, attract new owners and promote practical sustainability
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (Nov. 7, 2019) – Travelodge® by Wyndham – part of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH), the world’s largest hotel franchising company with more than 9,200 hotels in over 80 countries – is building upon its 2019 growth momentum with the introduction of a new program in 2020 touting initiatives that streamline operations to drive value to owners while helping reduce the brand’s environmental impact.
The adventure-focused brand, which has more than doubled its openings year-over-year as of the third quarter, has a history of eco-friendly efforts based on its strong concentration near many U.S. national parks. The new initiative, Travelodge + GO Green, aims to reduce overall waste while increasing operating efficiencies – and cost savings – with new breakfast, housekeeping and amenity programs.
“With more than 75 percent of hotels just an hour’s drive from a national park, Travelodge has always supported the preservation of our natural resources for generations of travelers to come,” said John Henderson, brand leader of Travelodge. “As we continue to grow the brand in new destinations, we’re taking that commitment one step further by reducing our impact on the environment while making our hotels even more efficient to own and operate.”
Travelodge + GO Green will introduce several new initiatives in 2020, including:
Flexible Breakfast: Travelodge franchisees will have the option to choose the right breakfast offering for their local market. To reduce waste, hotels in markets that don’t require full continental breakfast may consider alternate offerings such as a 24-hour coffee station, signature Grab + GO snack bags, or a revenue-generating mart option.
Green Housekeeping: Following a successful four-month pilot, Travelodge hotels will offer guests the opportunity to opt out of housekeeping service in exchange for 500 Wyndham Rewards® points per stay. The effort not only supports the brand’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards program, but also creates opportunities for savings in cleaning and laundry supplies.
Bulk Soap Amenities: Travelodge is also in the process of identifying eco-friendly, cost-effective and attractive soap dispenser solutions to reduce single-use plastics and amenity waste.
Slated to launch in early 2020, the program is designed to attract hoteliers who believe in sensible, sustainable operations and connect with new generations of conscious travelers. Eric Sheckleton, who owns three Travelodge by Wyndham hotels in the vicinity of Yellowstone National Park, was an early adopter of the brand’s new breakfast and housekeeping programs:
“As an adventure traveler myself, I fell in love with Travelodge’s basecamp for adventure message and was so excited to hear that the brand is exploring innovative ways for owners to reduce their environmental footprint,” said Sheckleton. “With the optional housekeeping and Grab + GO breakfast we’ve found that not only have we reduced overall waste, but we’ve also been able to lower costs – from food and beverage, to linens, cleaning supplies and even labor. It’s also been a great conversation starter for our guests, who want to learn more about how they can participate.”
Hoteliers interested in joining the Travelodge by Wyndham family or learning more about the brand’s environmental platform can visit development.wyndhamhotels.com.
Travelodge is proud to be an official partner of the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), an independent, nonpartisan voice working to strengthen and protect our national parks for future generations. Earlier this year, the brand helped protect and preserve select national parks with its “Adventure Responsibly” program. The conservation initiative invited the public to join NPCA and Travelodge in organized national park cleanup efforts across the nation.
With more than 430 hotels across North America, Travelodge by Wyndham is your basecamp for adventure, offering a clean, comfy room along with free breakfast and Wi-Fi, at affordable rates. Known coast to coast for its laid back, California roots and iconic Sleepy Bear mascot, today, more than 75 percent of all Travelodge hotels are located just an hour’s drive from some of the nation’s most celebrated National Parks. That’s why, in an effort to help protect these vital landmarks, the brand is proud to serve as an official sponsor of National Parks Conservation Association. To learn more, or to start planning your next adventure, visit www.travelodge.com. If you are interested in developing a Travelodge by Wyndham hotel, visit development.wyndhamhotels.com.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company, with over 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 822,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, The Trademark Collection®, and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 79 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.
On the heels of its latest survey, La Quinta develops new Take a Paws Project – a positivity-focused, stress-relief program complete with pet therapy and guided meditation on business travelers’ most stressful day
Veterinarian Dr. Evan Antin and therapy dog Boon ‘Take A Paws’ at a La Quinta by Wyndham hotel. Click to Download
La Quinta® by Wyndham, a trusted hotel brand among career commuters, is helping relieve stress for business travelers on November 20 – the busiest business travel day of the year – when nearly 60% more people are hitting the road than usual. According to the latest “La Quinta Means Business” survey, 96% of business travelers have had to travel for work the week before Thanksgiving and 81% of them feel they’re likely to experience stress as a result.
La Quinta is encouraging its guests to take a breather while they take care of business before the holiday rush with its new Take a Paws Project. On the busiest day for business travel, select La Quinta hotels in New York City and Chicago will offer frazzled travelers access to special amenities alongside its signature services – like free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, comfortable bedding, and more – to help them triumph in their travels. Guests can say “ohm” to zen offerings, including weighted blankets for anxiety-free sleep, endorphin-producing fitness and meditation classes, and a special pet therapy session in the lobby, where they can experience the naturally relaxing influence of furry friends.
“As someone who travels more than 200 days a year, I fully understand how last-minute travel right before the holidays can be extremely stressful,” said Krishna Paliwal, president of La Quinta by Wyndham. “A longtime champion of business travelers, La Quinta understands the unique challenges they face, and is committed to helping them succeed on the road every day of the year. This year, we’re raising the bar on relaxation for travelers with a calming take on the amenities they need to get the job done when they need them the most: on the busiest business travel day of the year.”
SURVEY SAYS: THE STRESS STRUGGLE IS REAL
La Quinta’s survey tapped into the mindset of today’s business traveler leading up to the busiest business travel day of the year to understand how stress affects them on the road and how travel affects their relationships with their pets:
On the Road Again
Everybody’s doing it: Nearly all (96%) business travelers have had to travel for work the week before Thanksgiving, with 86% saying they’re likely to do so this year.
Hang in there: Almost all (92%) business travelers say they are impacted by stress while on a business trip; of those likely to travel the week before Thanksgiving this year, 81% feel they’ll likely experience stress as a result this year as well.
Hot to (turkey) trot: A majority (58%) of career commuters would feel less stressed working late every night the week before Thanksgiving than going on a business trip that week, but 53% say they’d rather go on an unexpected trip the week before Thanksgiving than sit next to the most annoying guest at Thanksgiving dinner.
Gimme a Break
Feeling the pressure: Stress related to business travel impacts business travelers in many ways, such as making it harder to relax (54%), feeling anxious or moody (49%), difficulty sleeping (45%), and developing headaches or migraines (35%).
Off the clock: Virtually all (98%) business travelers do something to de-stress at their hotel when traveling for work, including watching TV (64%), taking a nap or meditating (52%), FaceTiming family and friends (49%), or working out at the hotel gym (47%).
It’s me time: When asked how they’d most like to change their habits when traveling for business, 59% of career commuters cited health and wellness changes (eating healthier, getting more sleep, exercising more); only 10% said they wanted to network more during downtime.
Power of the puppy: The vast majority of business travelers (86%) agree that petting a dog while on a business trip would be one of the best ways to de-stress.
Pawprints on Our Hearts
Can’t say no to that face: Almost all (95%) pet parents reported feeling like their pet has caused guilt trips before their work trip by looking anxious (58%), whimpering (55%), sitting in or on the suitcase (45%), or even physically blocking the door (35%) – unsurprisingly, 92% of business travelers feel work trips are as stressful for the owner as they are for pets left at home.
Fur babies or real babies?: One in three parents say they’d be more stressed about leaving their pet behind when they travel for work than leaving their children.
Who’s a good boy?: More career commuters would be stressed about their pets growing anxious to see them (53%) while traveling for work than they would be about their furry friends going to the bathroom everywhere (43%) or tearing apart furniture or clothes (32%).
La Quinta is helping its guests achieve greater business travel tranquility with help from stress expert Dr. Kathleen Hall and pet expert Dr. Evan Antin, as well as Pet Partners, the largest therapy animal nonprofit in the U.S., which will provide guests the unique chance to engage with therapy dogs on November 20 at the brand’s Midtown Manhattan and Downtown Chicago locations.
“Stress can manifest itself differently in each person,” says Dr. Hall, founder and CEO of Mindful Living Network® and The Stress Institute®, who knows that having to deal with the unexpected, like last-minute business travel, can exacerbate existing stress. “There is good news, though: you can become resilient to the negative effects of stress on your mind and body through exercise, sleep, and meaningful connections – and for career commuters, it helps to have a trusted travel partner like La Quinta, which offers the things you need to succeed and help reduce stress.”
No one understands the power of the uplifting connection between humans and animals better than Dr. Evan Antin, a veterinarian who also has five pets of his own.
“As an entrepreneur, I’ve experienced firsthand what it takes to be a true road warrior,” says Antin. “That’s why I’m excited to partner on the Take a Paws Project with La Quinta by Wyndham, a brand that understands the stress business travelers face – particularly during some of the most stressful times of the year – and provides just what we need to put our best foot (or paw) forward.”
La Quinta by Wyndham’s “La Quinta Means Business” survey series aims to uncover the realities of business travel and behaviors and quirks travelers exhibit to better help them succeed while on the road with the signature amenities they need, including free high-speed Wi-Fi, free breakfast, 24/7 coffee and tea, signature comfortable bedding, modern fitness centers, social gathering spaces, and spacious in-room work areas with charging stations. For more information, visit www.lq.com.
The “La Quinta Means Business” survey was conducted by Wakefield Research between September 16 and September 23, 2019, using an email invitation and an online survey among 1,000 U.S. business travelers ages 35–54, defined as those traveling for business 10-plus times per year.
About La Quinta by Wyndham With approximately 915 destinations in North and Latin America, the upper-midscale, pet-friendly 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 Bright Morning Bed®, free Bright Side Breakfast®, spacious in-room work areas, and free high-speed internet. For more information, visit www.lq.com. Like and follow La Quinta on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. For more information on developing a La Quinta by Wyndham hotel, click here.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company, with over 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 822,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, The Trademark Collection®, and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 79 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.
PARSIPPANY, N.J., November 4, 2019 – Whether hitting the road to tailgate with friends or taking to the air for a business trip with colleagues, Baymont® by Wyndham is dishing out an extra helping of its signature hometown hospitality this fall with the “Baymont Welcome,” a complimentary program designed to make each and every stay feel just a bit more like home.
Available now at all Baymont by Wyndham hotels across the U.S., the Baymont Welcome takes everything guests already love about Baymont—chocolate chip cookies at check-in, waffles with breakfast, free Wi-Fi—and makes it even better with a host of new amenities, available in limited quantities, that guests can request for free (on loan) from the front desk at any point during their stay. Among the items available:
Cheer in Comfort: Kick the tailgate up a notch with comfy stadium cushions and a cooler.
Today, Rainy Day, Any Day: Settle in for a day of games with your own deck of playing cards.
Imagine & Create: Get creative with kid-friendly “Chip & Wally” coloring sheets and crayons.
Baymont Buddies: Keep Fido happy with a yummy treat and some sips from our water bowl.*
A Splash of Fun: Have a little fun poolside with our colorful, inflatable beach balls.
“We’re excited to introduce guests to the Baymont Welcome because we want everyone who walks through our doors to feel relaxed and at home,” said Lindsay Levinson, senior manager of Marketing at Baymont by Wyndham. “We’ve really tried to make sure there’s something here for all our guests, from families with children to pet owners and everyone in between. We want them to know we’re always thinking of them and their needs.”
Experience the warm, welcoming service Baymont by Wyndham has to offer and get 10 percent off the best available rate each night during your next stay when you book by November 19, 2019, and complete the stay by November 26, 2019. To learn more, including full offer terms and conditions, visit www.baymontinns.com.
*Available at select pet-friendly locations.
About Baymont by Wyndham
Good, old-fashioned service never goes out of style, and it’s a stand-out staple at Baymont by Wyndham’s more than 500 midscale hotels throughout North America. Baymont’s signature “hometown hospitality,” which offers guest-centric comforts like friendly service with a smile, fresh chocolate chip cookies at check-in, and free breakfast at every Baymont Breakfast Corner®, is a driving force behind the brand’s stake as a fast growing brand in the hotel business. For more information, visit www.baymontinns.com. Like and follow Baymont on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company, with over 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 822,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, The Trademark Collection®, and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 79 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.
PARSIPPANY, N.J., October 29, 2019 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months ended September 30, 2019. Highlights include:
Diluted earnings per share declined 19%, to $0.47, and adjusted diluted EPS grew 29%, to $1.10.
Net income was $45 million for the third quarter, a 22% decrease over the prior-year quarter; adjusted net income was $106 million, a 25% increase over the prior-year quarter.
Adjusted EBITDA increased 14% compared with the prior-year quarter, to $190 million.
System-wide rooms grew 3% year-over-year, including U.S. rooms growth of 1% and international rooms growth of 6%.
The Company’s development pipeline grew 7% year-over-year to 190,000 rooms.
U.S. RevPAR declined 1% year-over-year, and international RevPAR declined 1% year-over-year in constant currency.
Returned more than $100 million to shareholders in the quarter, through share repurchases and dividends.
Company updates its full-year 2019 outlook.
“Our team’s sharp execution against our strategic and operating plans allowed us to deliver solid results in the third quarter, despite a softening RevPAR environment, highlighted by continued expansion of our system size and significant growth in adjusted EBITDA,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “In addition, we increased our share repurchase authorization to reflect our strong free cash flow and our sustained focus on returning cash to shareholders. We remain confident that our business is well-positioned for continued success.”
Revenues decreased 7% to $560 million, compared with $604 million in the third quarter of 2018. The decline is primarily due to lower cost-reimbursement revenues in our hotel management business, which have no impact on adjusted EBITDA.
Net income was $45 million, or $0.47 per diluted share, compared to $58 million, or $0.58 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2018. As previously announced, 2019 results reflect contract-termination expenses and transaction-related items. Prior-year results included separation-related and transaction-related expenses associated with the Company’s spin-off and acquisition of La Quinta.
Adjusted net income was $106 million, or $1.10 per diluted share, compared with $85 million, or $0.85 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2018. Third quarter earnings benefited from higher royalty and franchise fees and other revenues, as well as increased synergies from the acquisition and integration of La Quinta, partially offset by higher marketing expenses. 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.
Third quarter adjusted EBITDA increased 14% to $190 million, compared with $166 million in the third quarter of 2018. The increase in adjusted EBITDA primarily reflected higher fee revenues and increased synergies from the acquisition and integration of La Quinta.
As of September 30, 2019, the Company’s hotel system consisted of over 9,200 properties and approximately 822,000 rooms, a 3% increase compared with the third quarter of 2018. The Company’s development pipeline consisted of 1,450 hotels and approximately 190,000 rooms, a 7% year-over-year room increase. The Company also increased its pipeline sequentially by 1% compared to second quarter 2019. Approximately 56% of the Company’s development pipeline is international and 74% is new construction.
Business Segment Discussion
The following discussion of third quarter operating results focuses on revenue and adjusted EBITDA for each of the Company’s segments.
Revenues increased 9% compared to third quarter 2018, due to higher fee revenues and the timing of the Company’s global franchisee conference, which was in April last year but in September this year. Adjusted EBITDA grew 10% to $195 million, reflecting the growth in revenues and increased synergies from the acquisition of La Quinta, partially offset by a $7 million impact from higher marketing expenses.
Revenues decreased $72 million compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to lower cost-reimbursement revenues, which have no impact on adjusted EBITDA, and a one-time accrual for customer payments we agreed to make, which is considered transaction-related and therefore does not impact Adjusted EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA increased $8 million compared to the prior-year quarter, primarily reflecting reduced marketing expenses and $2 million of management contract termination fees.
Other Items
Share Repurchases and Dividends – The Company repurchased approximately 1,410,000 shares of its common stock for $75 million in the third quarter. The Company’s Board of Directors also increased the Company’s share repurchase authorization by $300 million in August. The Company paid common stock dividends of $28 million, or $0.29 per share, in the third quarter.
La Quinta Integration – The Company achieved run-rate synergies related to the La Quinta acquisition of $68 million annually during the third quarter, as anticipated.
Agreement with CorePoint Lodging – In October, the Company entered into an agreement with CorePoint Lodging, for whom the Company manages La Quinta-branded hotels, to collaborate on initiatives in support of CorePoint’s operations and to resolve open issues between the two companies. As part of the agreement, the Company will make payments of approximately $20 million to CorePoint, and CorePoint will commit to maintaining cash operating reserves of approximately $20 million. The two companies also agreed to finalize outstanding tax matters related to the Company’s May 2018 acquisition of La Quinta Holdings Inc. As a result of the agreement, the Company recorded charges of approximately $26 million ($21 million after-tax) in the third quarter.
Hotel Management Contract Termination – As previously announced, the Company recorded a $34 million charge in the third quarter to terminate an unprofitable hotel-management arrangement, which was initiated in 2012 and covers eight hotel properties and 2,500 U.S. rooms, all of which will remain in the Company’s franchise system this year. With the termination of this arrangement, the Company’s future maximum annual hotel-management guaranty obligations will be $5 million.
Outlook
The Company is updating its previous outlook for full-year 2019 as follows:
Conference Call Information
Wyndham Hotels will hold a conference call with investors to discuss the Company’s results and outlook on Tuesday, October 29, 2019 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 for approximately 90 days beginning at noon ET on October 29, 2019. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on October 29, 2019 at 800 283-4799.
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.
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, with over 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 822,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, The Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award- winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 79 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 Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. 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,” “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. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release include 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, share repurchases and dividends.
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 performance of financial and credit markets, the economic environment for the hospitality industry, operating risks associated with the hotel franchising and management businesses, the impact of war, terrorist activity or political strife, risks related to the acquisition and integration of La Quinta and our relationship with CorePoint Lodging, risks related to our ability to obtain financing and the terms of such financing and the timing and amount of future share repurchases and dividends, as well as the risks described in Wyndham Hotels’ 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. 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.
Developed with help of celebrity designer Alison Victoria, concept aligns with brand’s new aesthetic and is packed with unique features perfect for modern day group travelers
PARSIPPANY, N.J., October 24, 2019 – Super 8® by Wyndham, the world’s largest economy hotel brand, today unveiled the winning design for its first-ever shared room concept, ROOM8. Developed by Candice Buttars, an undergraduate design student at Utah State University, with support from celebrity interior designer and TV personality Alison Victoria, the concept reimagines the traditional hotel suite in an effort to accommodate a new generation of road trippers who thrive in communal spaces.
Piloting at select Super 8 locations as early as next year and anchored by unique features like vintage arcade games and individual sleeping spaces for up to four guests, the innovative room concept was sourced through the brand’s recent ROOM8 Design Challenge, which called on aspiring designers, co-living experts and urbanites to submit renderings of an original concept that would provide a functional, yet elevated experience to today’s influx of group travelers.
“Super 8 is known for being travelers’ companion on the road and the introduction of ROOM8 brings that promise to life in a whole new way,” said Mike Mueller, Super 8 Brand President. “More and more, we’re seeing groups of guests who want space to stretch out and relax, but without the sacrifice of giving up their own private sleeping space. The unique design developed by Candice and Alison is the ideal solution. Whether it’s a group of millennials, a young family or an on-the-road construction crew, ROOM8 delivers the perfect balance of privacy and community.”During the design process, Victoria served as Buttars’ mentor and the pair worked together, one-on-one, to evolve what would become the final design.
“From the second I learned about the design challenge, I knew that I had to submit a concept,” said Candice Buttars, student and winner of the ROOM8 contest. “As a college student and aspiring designer, you dream of getting to work with a household name like Super 8 by Wyndham, let alone someone as accomplished as Alison Victoria. To take what I know, not only as a designer, but also as the target customer for this project, and be able to meld it into my vision, creating something entirely new, has been incredibly rewarding.”
Among the amenities that make ROOM8 unique:
A group-focused blend of digital and analog entertainment including vintage arcade games; a streaming-ready, 65-inch wall-mounted TV; cornhole boards, a foosball table and more
Abundant seating and an open dining layout, complete with an apartment-sized refrigerator and microwave
Individual sleeping spaces and beds for up to four guests
USB ports, AC outlets and wireless charging stations, room-wide
The creation of ROOM8 comes on the heels of the largest redesign in Super 8 brand history, a multi-year effort during which the brand’s hotels across the U.S. and Canada invested more than $140 million into room renovations, elevating the Super 8 guest experience.
About Super 8 by Wyndham
For more than four decades, Super 8® by Wyndham—the world’s largest economy hotel brand with nearly 2,900 hotels globally—has served as a trusted and convenient companion on the road. Today, we’re on a mission to elevate economy, modernizing the brand for the next generation of traveler with newly redesigned rooms, fast, free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast.
A strong supporter of our servicemen and women, Super 8 is proud to offer reserved parking for Veterans at all locations across the U.S. and Canada. In addition, this Veterans Day, Super 8 will increase the discount it provides to members of the military and their families to 20 percent off its best available rate for stays through Dec. 6, 2019. To learn more, or to book your next stay, visit www.super8.com. You can also like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/super8) and follow us on Instagram (www.instagram.com/super8). See you on the road.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company, with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 817,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection®, and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards® loyalty program offers over 77 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at tens of thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
Military members, veterans and their families can save up to 20% off, plus receive 500 Wyndham Rewards bonus points, on stays through December 6
PARSIPPANY, N.J., Oct. 22, 2019 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH)—the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries—today announced a host of new initiatives honoring active and retired military members and their families, including a one-to-one match of all Wyndham Rewards® point donations to its military non-profit partners—up to 1 million points—along with increased savings of 15 to 20 percent off the Best Available Rate at participating hotels, plus 500 Wyndham Rewards bonus points on upcoming stays through Dec. 6, 2019.
Available at participating hotels in the United States and Canada across the Company’s broad portfolio of brands, including household names like Super 8® by Wyndham and La Quinta® by Wyndham—both of which always offer preferred parking for active and retired military members—the promotional offer and point match come on the heels of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts adding its newest charitable military partner: Hope For The Warriors, a four-star rated, 501(c)(3) organization that provides comprehensive support programs for service members, veterans and military families.
Other military non-profit partners, all of whom will have point donations matched during the promotional period up to 170,000 points each, include Fisher House Foundation, Armed Services YMCA, Operation Homefront, Team Red White & Blue and Team Rubicon.
“We believe in honoring and saying ‘thank you’ to the brave members of the armed forces and their families every day of the year, but this Veterans Day, we’re doing even more,” said Sheila Schottland, vice president of Brand Marketing at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “From matching points donated by members to our military non-profit partners, to increasing already available discounts plus bonus points added on top, it’s one more way for us to give back and show our gratitude.”
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and its brands have a strong history of celebrating and supporting those who serve, from everyday discounts available at its more than 9,200 hotels, to sponsorship of veteran-centric events—like Super 8’s upcoming support of the 12th annual Long Island Run for the Warriors race—and hiring initiatives, including La Quinta’s collaboration with Hiring Our Heroes, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, to help drive veteran employment opportunities. Military members, veterans and their spouses also receive special benefits when they join Wyndham Rewards, the company’s award-winning loyalty program, including a complimentary upgrade to Wyndham Rewards’ Gold membership along with 1,000 bonus Wyndham Rewards points upon completion of the member’s first qualified stay.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company, with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 817,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection®, and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards® loyalty program offers over 77 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at tens of thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
Wyndham Rewards® Visa® Card named best travel and hotel co-branded credit card
PARSIPPANY, N.J., Oct. 21, 2019 – Wyndham Rewards, the world’s most generous rewards program spanning more than 30,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally, today announced it has once again been named the best hotel loyalty program in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards and that the Wyndham Rewards® Visa® Card has been named the best travel and hotel co-branded credit card.
This marks the second consecutive year that Wyndham Rewards has taken top honors in the hotel loyalty program category. Nominations are sourced by a panel of travel industry experts, including editors from USA Today and 10best.com, and winners are chosen based on daily voting from USA Today readers over a period of four weeks.
“In a crowded loyalty landscape, it’s thrilling to know that our program and credit card were ranked number one by those who matter most: our members,” said Eliot Hamlisch, senior vice president, Worldwide Loyalty and Partnerships, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
This year’s ranking comes on the heels of Wyndham Rewards introducing a host of new features this past spring, all centered on making the program even more rewarding for its millions of members around the globe. Among the many enhancements introduced: free nights at thousands of hotels starting at just 7,500 points, new places to stay with the addition of more than 900 La Quinta® by Wyndham hotels and more ways to earn and redeem thanks to relationships with DoorDash, Viator, Marathon gas and others.
Added Hamlisch, “When we evolved Wyndham Rewards, it was in direct response to feedback from our members and the benefits and features they told us they value most. This latest honor is a testament to the significance of that work and the continued importance of celebrating and serving the everyday traveler.”
This fall, Wyndham Rewards members can earn up to 30,000 bonus points, enough for up to four free nights, when they apply and are approved for the Wyndham Rewards Visa Card. For more information, including full promotional terms, visit www.wyndhamrewards.com.
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 30,000 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 9,200 hotels or tens of thousands of vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally through partnership with Wyndham Destinations (NYSE: WYND) and others. Wyndham Rewards has over 77 million enrolled members around the globe. Join for free today at www.wyndhamrewards.com. You’ve earned this.®
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company, with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 817,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection®, and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards® loyalty program offers over 77 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at tens of thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
Will Host Conference Call and Webcast at 8:30 a.m. ET
PARSIPPANY, N.J., Oct. 7, 2019 — Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) announced today that it will report third quarter 2019 results on Tuesday, October 29, 2019. Geoff Ballotti, president and chief executive officer, and David Wyshner, chief financial officer, will host a call with investors at 8:30 a.m. ET that morning to discuss the Company’s results and business outlook.
Listeners can access the webcast live through the Company’s website at www.investor.wyndhamhotels.com. The conference call may also be accessed by calling 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 for approximately 90 days beginning at noon ET on October 29, 2019. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on October 29, 2019 at 800 283-4799.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company, with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 817,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, The Trademark Collection®, and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 77 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.
World’s largest hotel franchising company recognizes exceptional franchisees with new Wyndham Humanitarian and Wyndham Developer awards
LAS VEGAS, Sept. 27, 2019 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) – the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries – introduced two inaugural awards honoring franchisees who embody its mission to make hotel travel possible for all at its first global conference as an independent hotel company.
The two new awards, The Wyndham Humanitarian Award and The Wyndham Developer Award, recognize franchisees who show leadership in each area by making a difference in their local community through hospitality. They complement Wyndham’s existing collection of brand awards honoring its owners for strong performance and outstanding hospitality.
“Our nearly 6,000 franchisees do extraordinary work to help us welcome the world every single day,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Today, we’re taking a moment to honor those hoteliers who go above and beyond with two new awards that recognize their contribution to our industry and our communities.”
Ballotti added: “We are humbled to work with dedicated hoteliers like Nalini and Rupesh Patel, who built a hotel that allows so many families to create happy memories, and Danny Aderholt who, through his company’s development efforts, makes his communities stronger as a result of his passion for hospitality. We celebrate and thank them for all they do.”
The Wyndham Humanitarian Award: Nalini and Rupesh Patel
Nalini and Rupesh Patel, owners of the La Quinta by Wyndham San Antonio Alamo City, offer extra support for guests with mobility needs staying in the area to visit nearby Morgan’s Wonderland, an accessible theme park for people with special needs. Their new-construction La Quinta by Wyndham hotel was designed with expanded rooms, oversized entryways, barn-style doorways and lower consoles and surface areas to support guests who use wheelchairs. It also features a special, Texas-shaped pool with a unique wheelchair ramp that allows guests to enter and exit the water without drawing the same attention as a pool lift.
The Patels, avid fans of Manchester United, are passionate hoteliers who empower families to make memories through travel. They installed an engaging “selfie wall” where guests can share special moments and, in honor of Manchester United, they constructed a mini soccer field at the hotel.
“When we set out to build this hotel so close to Morgan’s Wonderland, we thought to ourselves: what can we do to make vacations enjoyable, affordable and memorable – whether it’s a staycation for locals to Texas or visitors from out of town,” said Nalini Patel, Man UTD Investments Inc. “We’re doing what we can to make it just a little bit easier on everyone so they can relax and enjoy traveling.”
Wyndham Developer Award: Century Equities Founder Danny Aderholt
Danny Aderholt is the founder of Century Equities, a real estate development company based in Wheeling, West Virginia. With 10 hotels across West Virginia and Ohio, many of them under Wyndham brands including Wingate® by Wyndham, Hawthorn Suites® by Wyndham, Microtel® by Wyndham, and Super 8® by Wyndham, Century focuses on contributing to communities through development.
In May, Aderholt and his company opened their latest hotel: a TRYP by Wyndham® in the Lawrenceville district of Pittsburgh, a community recently listed as “America’s Coolest Neighborhood.” Housed in a historic trade school building, the property was originally built in 1901 and features local art and interior design inspired by the trades formerly taught within its walls. When Aderholt, who grew up in Pittsburgh, learned of plans to tear the structure down, he viewed the challenge of transforming the historic building as a unique opportunity for Century and for the Lawrenceville neighborhood.
“I was raised in Pittsburgh and have watched this neighborhood evolve over the past fifty-plus years. My son Josh, who was instrumental in this project, has lived in Lawrenceville for over a decade with his family, so we are rooted there in many ways. Lawrenceville has become a true destination for Pittsburghers and out-of-town guests alike. As part of this community, we’ve always known how special it is, and wanted to celebrate the fabric of the neighborhood by doing something that adds to its appeal – not alters it,” Aderholt says.
The Wyndham Hotel of the Year Awards
Wyndham also recognizes hotel owners across its brands for their hard work in areas like quality, performance and guest satisfaction with more than 100 individual awards. These awards culminate in the Company’s top honor, Hotel of the Year, which recognizes the top hotel in each segment of the hospitality industry. This year’s Hotel of the Year award winners include:
Economy Hotel of the Year:Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lubbock Medical Center
Owned by Subodh and Mahesh Patel, longtime Days Inn® by Wyndham franchisees, the Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lubbock Medical Center in Lubbock, Texas, is a top economy hotel in its market. Subodh Patel opened his first Days Inn in 1992 and he has served on the brand’s Franchise Advisory Council for nearly 30 years, serving as chairman three times.
Midscale Hotel of the Year and Overall Hotel of the Year:La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Cleveland
Owned by Himanshu Patel, the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Cleveland in Cleveland, Tenn., is the Midscale Hotel of the Year and is listed as a top hotel in its local market. The hotel also received Wyndham’s overall Hotel of the Year honor based on its outstanding performance. The award was presented at the closing session of Wyndham’s global conference.
Upscale Hotel of the Year:Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort
Owned by Cheryl Chase, this former Howard Johnson® by Wyndham hotel in Deerfield Beach, Fla., overcame a hurricane evacuation in the midst of a renovation and remains the top hotel in its market.The hotel has fully renovated all of its guest rooms and two restaurants and is in the process of renovating its pool and ballroom before the end of this year. It is a three-time recipient of the upscale Hotel of the Year award from Wyndham.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company, with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 817,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, The Trademark Collection®, and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 77 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.
World’s largest hotel franchising company highlights efforts to elevate brands, serve owners, drive global growth and innovate for guests as part of its mission to make hotel travel possible for all
LAS VEGAS, Sept. 25, 2019 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) – the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries – outlined plans to advance its position as the world’s leading provider of select-service hotel brands before thousands of its franchisees at its first global conference as an independent hotel company.
With a focus on enhancing returns for its nearly 6,000 franchisees, the Company unveiled several initiatives designed to elevate its brands, deliver incremental resources to its owners, grow its presence and meet the needs of today’s travelers.
“As the world’s largest hotel franchisor, our commitment to making hotel travel possible for all starts with our franchisees,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Together, we are elevating our family of iconic brands through innovation in quality and design, operational efficiency, strategic growth and guest experience to shape not only the future of Wyndham but the legacy of our owners around the world.”
Elevating Economy
Wyndham continues to democratize travel by elevating the economy segment with distinct, meaningful experiences for guests – at an affordable price point – for some of its most iconic brands. On the heels of recent brand-wide redesign efforts for Super 8® by Wyndham and Howard Johnson® by Wyndham, the company unveiled a new look for Days Inn® by Wyndham.
Dawn of a New Days Inn: With its 50th anniversary approaching in 2020, Days Inn – one of the largest brands in the economy segment – unveiled a new interior design package for its 1,400 hotels in the U.S. The new design, aptly named Dawn, takes inspiration from the sun with bright and airy rooms and sun-centric art celebrating the brand’s roots with a modern flair. The brand expects to implement the design standard across its U.S. portfolio in several phases.
Revolutionizing Design and Construction
The Company is prioritizing new-construction growth with the launch of both new and refreshed prototypes designed to lower development costs and capture greater efficiencies, taking a page from the best practices of La Quinta® by Wyndham and the success of the recent Moda prototype launch from Microtel by Wyndham®.
Growing Garden: The Company announced plans to reposition its Wyndham Garden® brand for growth with a new interior and exterior prototype called Arbor, which offers a streamlined, modern aesthetic inspired by nature that is designed to reduce cost-per-key to build.
Dual-Branding La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites® by Wyndham: Wyndham is introducing a new prototype combining its extended-stay Hawthorn Suites brand with La Quinta, designed to streamline development and operational costs while appealing to multiple types of travelers. The dual-brand prototype leverages the newly refreshed room of La Quinta’s Del Sol prototype, which continues to draw developers, with seven new-construction agreements signed in the second quarter.
Reimagining AmericInn® by Wyndham: The Company also debuted a refreshed interior design for AmericInn inspired by the modern lodge look, updating the brand’s contemporary exterior prototype while celebrating its heritage. Together, the interior and exterior designs represent the brand’s fourth-generation prototype.
Driving Global Growth
As international tourism continues to grow, Wyndham is positioning its well-known brands to capitalize on the rising demand for trusted lodging options for all travelers, particularly everyday travelers and the growing global middle class.
New Brands in New Markets: Five Wyndham brands have opened in new markets this year, including Days Inn in New Zealand; Microtel in China; Ramada® by Wyndham in Armenia; Wyndham® in Malaysia; and Wyndham Garden in Argentina, Australia and the Philippines. The Company also signed agreements to introduce Dolce Hotels and Resorts® by Wyndham in Denmark and Vietnam this year, and La Quinta in the Dominican Republic in 2021.
Making its Mark: Since launching just over two years ago as the first soft brand geared toward midscale and upper-midscale hotels, Trademark Collection® by Wyndham continues its rapid growth around the world, adding six new hotels in Canada and its first hotel in Latin America, in Belize, to its more than 100 hotels in North America and Europe.
Growth in Asia: Wyndham is the largest international franchisor in Greater China and recently announced plans to open approximately 500 hotels in China over the next three years, bringing its total to more than 2,000 hotels there by the end of 2022. The Company is also growing rapidly in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Rim, its fastest-growing region, and plans to open three new hotels in Thailand later this year. Additionally, Wyndham added three Ramada hotels in South Korea this year, surpassing 40 hotels in the country.
Digital Technology Evolution
Following its strategic initiative to endorse all of its brands with the “by Wyndham” moniker – one of the largest name changes in the industry’s history – and the evolution of Wyndham Rewards, which brought about innovative, first-to-market partnerships such as DoorDash, Wyndham is leveraging new technology to expand its digital efforts to drive brand recognition and contribution and enhance the guest experience across its portfolio.
Wyndham Wi-Fi: Addressing the ongoing challenge of providing great guest Wi-Fi, Wyndham franchisees now have access to a new bundle of wireless and network services featuring high-quality hardware and equipment at lower costs called Wyndham Wi-Fi. Hoteliers will have access to best-in-class wireless and network equipment, a professional home page, superior Wi-Fi services with consistent signals capable of handling guests’ multi-screen needs, and one-stop shopping for support.
Mobile First: To meet guests where they are – literally, in the palm of their hands – the Company will launch a new mobile app in the spring of 2020 offering streamlined bookings, account management, gamification, and exciting on-property features enabling guests to make the most of their stays. This intuitive, anticipatory app also will provide Wyndham Rewards members with personalized moments woven throughout their journey.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company, with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 817,000 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 Inn & Suites®, La Quinta®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Baymont®, The Trademark Collection®, and Wyndham®. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 77 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. If you are interested in development opportunities, please visit development.wyndhamhotels.com.
During the design process, Victoria served as Buttars’ mentor and the pair worked together, one-on-one, to evolve what would become the final design.
