Urges Shareholders to Protect Their Investment and the Future of Wyndham by Supporting Only Wyndham’s Eight Highly-Qualified Director Nominees
Encourages Shareholders to Visit StayWyndham.com for More Information
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (March 11, 2024) – The Board of Directors of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) (“Wyndham” or the “Company”), the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,200 hotels spanning more than 95 countries, sent a letter to shareholders urging them to protect their investment and the future of Wyndham by supporting only Wyndham’s eight highly-qualified Director nominees and not the nominees from Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH) (“Choice”).
Wyndham has a clear path to deliver shareholder value substantially in excess of Choice’s inadequate and uncertain offer. Wyndham’s Board has evaluated Choice’s proposal carefully and in its entirety. The Board has been explicitly clear that in order to make a proposal viable for shareholders, Choice must adequately address the three key issues Wyndham has repeatedly raised: insufficient valuation, unattractive consideration mix and asymmetrical regulatory risk. Despite the Company’s efforts to engage with Choice, Choice has demonstrated that it is unable, or simply unwilling, to propose a complete offer package addressing these three issues.
Wyndham’s Board believes all eight of its nominees are more qualified with the right mix of skills and highly relevant expertise – including decades of hotel franchising, international business and public company operating experience – to oversee the successful execution of Wyndham’s global strategy and deliver the most value to shareholders. The Board’s Corporate Governance Committee, comprised solely of Independent Directors, conducted interviews with each of Choice’s eight nominees and determined that they lack the skills, expertise and background in key areas critical to Wyndham’s business and have been hand-picked by Choice with the sole objective of selling Wyndham for far less than the Company is worth.
The Company’s definitive proxy materials will be filed and mailed soon, including the WHITE proxy card with instructions for how to vote. Your vote FOR ONLY Wyndham’s eight highly-qualified Director nominees on the WHITE proxy card will be critical for our upcoming 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Wyndham’s Board also urges shareholders to discard any materials or blue proxy card they may receive from Choice. The letter to shareholders and other important information related to Wyndham’s Annual Meeting can be found at https://www.staywyndham.com.
Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and PJT Partners are serving as financial advisors and Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP are legal advisors to Wyndham.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,200 hotels across over 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 872,000 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 24 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 106 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit https://investor.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.
Important Additional Information This press release is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc. (“Wyndham” or the “Company”) has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9. The Company has mailed the solicitation/recommendation statement filed by the Company to Company stockholders. COMPANY STOCKHOLDERS ARE ADVISED TO READ THE COMPANY’S SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION WITH RESPECT TO ANY EXCHANGE OFFER BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Company stockholders may obtain a copy of the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9, as well as any other documents filed by the Company in connection with any exchange offer by Choice Hotels International, Inc. or one of its affiliates, free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In addition, investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of these documents from the Company by directing a request to Matt Capuzzi, Senior Vice President, Investor Relations at [email protected] or by calling 973.753.6453.
The Company filed a preliminary proxy statement and accompanying form of WHITE proxy card with the SEC on February 26, 2024 (as amended on March 11, 2024, the “Preliminary Proxy Statement”), with respect to the Company’s 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2024 Annual Meeting”). The Company will file and mail a definitive proxy statement (the “Proxy Statement”) and accompanying WHITE proxy card to stockholders of the Company. The Company’s stockholders are strongly encouraged to read the Proxy Statement (including any amendments or supplements thereto) and the accompanying WHITE proxy card as well as other documents the Company files with the SEC carefully in their entirety because they will contain important information. The Company’s stockholders may obtain copies of the Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements to the Proxy Statement and other documents filed by the Company with the SEC free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies will also be available free of charge at the Company’s website at https://investor.wyndhamhotels.com.
Certain Information Concerning Participants Wyndham and certain of its directors and executive officers will be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Wyndham stockholders by and on behalf of its Board in connection with the matters to be considered at the 2024 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the Company’s directors and executive officers and their respective interests in the Company by security holdings or otherwise is available in its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 15, 2024, and the Preliminary Proxy Statement filed with the SEC on February 26, 2024 (and amended on March 11, 2024). To the extent holdings of the Company’s securities reported in the Preliminary Proxy Statement have changed, such changes have been or will be reflected in the Proxy Statement and on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.
Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements either contained in or incorporated by reference into this communication, other than purely historical information, and assumptions upon which those statements are based, are “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements include those that convey management’s expectations as to the future based on plans, estimates and projections at the time Wyndham 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. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Wyndham 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 hereof.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, without limitation, factors relating to the unsolicited exchange offer by Choice Hotels International, Inc. (“Choice”) to acquire all outstanding shares of our common stock (the “Exchange Offer”), including actions taken by Choice in connection with such offer, actions taken by Wyndham or its stockholders in respect of the Exchange Offer or other actions or developments involving Choice, such as a potential proxy contest, the completion or failure to complete the Exchange Offer, the effects of such offer on our business, such as the cost, loss of time and disruption; general economic conditions, including inflation, higher interest rates and potential recessionary pressures; global or regional health crises or pandemics (such as the COVID-19 pandemic) including the resulting impact on the Company’s business operations, financial results, cash flows and liquidity, as well as the impact on its franchisees, guests and team members, the hospitality industry and overall demand for and restrictions on travel; the performance of the financial and credit markets; the economic environment for the hospitality industry; operating risks associated with the hotel franchising business; the Company’s relationships with franchisees; the impact of war, terrorist activity, political instability or political strife, including the ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and between Israel and Hamas; the Company’s ability to satisfy obligations and agreements under its outstanding indebtedness, including the payment of principal and interest and compliance with the covenants thereunder; risks related to the Company’s ability to obtain financing and the terms of such financing, including access to liquidity and capital; and the Company’s ability to make or pay, plans for and the timing and amount of any future share repurchases and/or dividends, as well as the risks described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Increases Quarterly Dividend by 9%; Reiterates Full-Year 2024 Outlook
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (February 14, 2024) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023. Highlights include:
System-wide rooms grew organically by 3.5% year-over-year, a record high.
Opened a record 66,000 organic rooms, representing a year-over-year increase of 3%.
Global retention rate – including all terminations – improved another 30 basis points to a record 95.6%.
Development pipeline grew 1% sequentially and by 10% year-over-year to a record 240,000 rooms.
Grew ECHO Suites pipeline nearly 60% year-over-year with 98 new contract signings.
Signed 766 contracts for legacy brands, an increase of 8% year-over-year.
Fourth quarter diluted earnings per share of $0.60 and net income of $50 million; adjusted diluted EPS of $0.91, adjusted net income of $75 million and adjusted EBITDA of $154 million.
Full-year 2023 diluted EPS of $3.41 and net income of $289 million; adjusted diluted EPS of $4.01, adjusted net income of $341 million and adjusted EBITDA of $659 million.
Net cash provided by operating activities of $376 million and free cash flow of $339 million for the full-year.
Returned $515 million to shareholders for the full-year through $397 million of share repurchases and quarterly cash dividends of $0.35 per share.
Board of Directors recently authorized a 9% increase in the quarterly cash dividend to $0.38 per share beginning with the dividend expected to be declared in first quarter 2024.
“We are tremendously proud to report fourth quarter results that demonstrate the continued success of our global strategy and our accelerating momentum,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “Despite the distraction, uncertainty and misperceptions caused by Choice and their slanted and constant communications to our franchisee base, room openings accelerated and our global development pipeline grew by 10% to an all-time high of 240,000 rooms. Our team opened 27% more rooms than last year in the fourth quarter and we welcomed 500 new hotels to our system in 2023. This, when combined with our improving franchisee engagement and record retention rate, drove the best organic system growth we’ve ever achieved. We grew comparable adjusted EBITDA by 6% and returned over half a billion dollars to our shareholders through dividends and share repurchases. We are confident in the continued effectiveness of our growth strategy and see exceptional value-creation opportunities in the years ahead.”
System Size and Development
The Company’s global system grew 3.5%, marking 12 consecutive quarters of organic growth and reflecting 1% growth in the U.S. and 7% internationally. As expected, these increases included strong growth in both the higher RevPAR midscale and above segments in the U.S. and the direct franchising business in China, which grew 3% and 13%, respectively. The Company also increased its retention rate, which includes all terminations, by another 30 basis points year-over-year, ending the year at a record 95.6%.
On December 31, 2023, the Company’s global development pipeline consisted of over 1,950 hotels and approximately 240,000 rooms, representing another record-high level and a 10% year-over-year increase. Key highlights include:
14th consecutive quarter of sequential pipeline growth
8% growth in the U.S. and 11% internationally
Approximately 70% of the pipeline is in the midscale and above segments, which grew 6% year-over-year
Approximately 58% of the pipeline is international
Approximately 79% of the pipeline is new construction, of which approximately 34% has broken ground
The Company awarded 766 new contracts for its legacy brands in full-year 2023, an increase of 8% compared to full-year 2022. Additionally, the Company awarded 98 additional new contracts for its ECHO Suites brand and, as of December 31, 2023, the Company had awarded 268 contracts, or over 33,000 rooms, for the brand.
RevPAR
Fourth quarter global RevPAR declined 1% in constant currency compared to 2022 reflecting a 4% decline in the U.S. and growth of 7% internationally. For the full year, global RevPAR grew 5% in constant currency compared to 2022 reflecting a 1% decline in the U.S. and growth of 21% internationally.
The Company had achieved record-breaking RevPAR in the U.S. during the preceding year due to COVID-impacted travel patterns. Comparing to 2019 to neutralize for COVID-impacted travel patterns, U.S. RevPAR grew 10% in fourth quarter – a 120 basis point acceleration from third quarter 2023 growth – and 9% for the full year. Internationally, year-over-year RevPAR growth for both the fourth quarter and the full-year was primarily driven by higher occupancy levels. Compared to 2019, international RevPAR grew in fourth quarter and full-year by 44% and 36%, respectively, on a constant-currency basis.
Operating Results
Fourth Quarter
Fee-related and other revenues was $320 million compared to $310 million in fourth quarter 2022 reflecting global net room growth as well as higher license and ancillary fees.
The Company generated net income of $50 million compared to $56 million in fourth quarter 2022. The decrease was reflective of a higher effective tax rate, higher interest expense, foreign currency impact from hyper-inflation in Argentina and transaction-related expenses resulting from the unsolicited offer by Choice Hotels, partially offset by higher adjusted EBITDA.
Adjusted EBITDA grew 22% to $154 million from $126 million. This increase included a $21 million favorable impact from marketing fund variability, excluding which adjusted EBITDA grew 6% primarily reflecting higher fee-related and other revenues.
Diluted earnings per share was $0.60 compared to $0.63 in fourth quarter 2022. This decrease reflects lower net income, partially offset by the benefit of a lower share count due to share repurchase activity.
Adjusted diluted EPS grew 26% to $0.91 per share from $0.72 per share. This increase included $0.19 per share related to the favorable marketing fund variability (after estimated taxes), excluding which adjusted diluted EPS was unchanged year-over-year as adjusted EBITDA growth and the benefit from share repurchase activity was substantially offset by higher interest expense.
During fourth quarter 2023, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $9 million; while in fourth quarter 2022, the Company’s marketing fund expenses exceeded revenues by $12 million, resulting in $21 million of marketing fund variability.
Full Year
Fee-related and other revenues was $1,384 million compared to $1,354 million in full-year 2022, which included $50 million from the Company’s select service management business and owned hotels, which were exited in 2022. On a comparable basis, fee-related and other revenues increased 6% year-over-year primarily reflecting global RevPAR and net room growth, higher license and ancillary fees and pass-through revenues associated with the Company’s global franchisee conference in September, which was held for the first time since 2019.
The Company generated net income of $289 million compared to $355 million in full-year 2022, which included $37 million from the select-service managed and owned hotels. The decrease was reflective of a higher effective tax rate, higher interest expense, foreign currency impact from hyper-inflation in Argentina and transaction-related expenses resulting from the unsolicited offer by Choice Hotels, partially offset by higher adjusted EBITDA.
Adjusted EBITDA was $659 million compared to $650 million in full-year 2022, which included $18 million from the select-service managed and owned hotels. The growth in adjusted EBITDA was further impacted by $11 million of unfavorable marketing fund variability. On a comparable basis, adjusted EBITDA increased 6% reflecting higher fee-related and other revenues.
Diluted earnings per share was $3.41 compared to $3.91 in full-year 2022, which included $0.40 per share from the select-service managed and owned hotels. This decrease reflects the lower net income, partially offset by the benefit of a lower share count due to share repurchase activity.
Adjusted diluted EPS was $4.01 per share compared to $3.96 per share in full-year 2022, which included $0.15 per share from the select-service managed and owned hotels. This growth in adjusted diluted EPS was further impacted by $0.09 per share (after estimated taxes) of unfavorable marketing fund variability. On a comparable basis, adjusted diluted EPS increased 8% year-over-year reflecting the adjusted EBITDA growth and the benefit from share repurchase activity, partially offset by higher interest expense.
During full-year 2023, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $9 million; while in 2022, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $20 million, resulting in $11 million of marketing fund variability.
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.
Balance Sheet and Liquidity
The Company generated $376 million of net cash provided by operating activities and free cash flow of $339 million in the full-year 2023. The Company ended the quarter with a cash balance of $66 million and approximately $650 million in total liquidity.
The Company’s net debt leverage ratio was 3.2 times at December 31, 2023, within the lower half of the Company’s 3 to 4 times stated target range.
Share Repurchases and Dividends
During the fourth quarter, the Company repurchased approximately 1.7 million shares of its common stock for $127 million. For the full-year 2023, the Company repurchased approximately 5.5 million shares of its common stock for $397 million, at an average price of $72.25, 8% lower than trading levels as of February 13th.
The Company paid common stock dividends of $28 million, or $0.35 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2023 for a total of $118 million, or $1.40 per share, for the full-year 2023.
For the full-year 2023, the Company returned $515 million to shareholders through share repurchases and quarterly cash dividends.
The Company’s Board of Directors authorized a 9% increase in the quarterly cash dividend to $0.38 per share, beginning with the dividend expected to be declared in first quarter 2024.
Full-Year 2024 Outlook
The Company provided the following outlook for full-year 2024:
Year-over-year growth rates for adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted EPS are not comparable due to full-year 2023 marketing fund revenues exceeding expenses by $9 million, which substantially completed the recovery of the $49 million support the Company provided to its owners during COVID. The Company expects marketing revenues to equal expenses during full-year 2024 though seasonality of spend will affect the quarterly comparisons throughout the year.
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, February 15, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET. Listeners can access the webcast live through the Company’s website at https://investor.wyndhamhotels.com. The conference call may also be accessed by dialing 800 225-9448 and providing the passcode “Wyndham”. Listeners are urged to call at least five minutes prior to the scheduled start time. An archive of this webcast will be available on the website beginning at noon ET on February 15, 2024. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on February 15, 2024 at 800 839-9719.
Presentation of Financial Information Financial information discussed in this press release includes non-GAAP measures, which include or exclude certain items. These non-GAAP measures differ from reported GAAP results and are intended to illustrate what management believes are relevant period-over-period comparisons and are helpful to investors as an additional tool for further understanding and assessing the Company’s ongoing operating performance. The Company uses these measures internally to assess its operating performance, both absolutely and in comparison to other companies, and to make day to day operating decisions, including in the evaluation of selected compensation decisions. Exclusion of items in the Company’s non-GAAP presentation should not be considered an inference that these items are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring. Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the comparable non-GAAP measures for the reported periods appear in the financial tables section of this press release.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,200 hotels across over 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 872,000 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 24 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 106 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit https://investor.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.
For information related to Choice Hotels’ hostile offer, please visit www.staywyndham.com.
Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements related to the Company’s current views and expectations with respect to its future performance and operations, including revenues, earnings, cash flow and other financial and operating measures, share repurchases and dividends and restructuring charges. The Company claims the protection of the Safe Harbor contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for forward-looking statements (other than with respect to statements made in connection with the unsolicited exchange offer by Choice to acquire all outstanding shares of our common stock (the “Exchange Offer”)). Forward-looking statements include those that convey management’s expectations as to the future based on plans, estimates and projections at the time the Company makes the statements and may be identified by words such as “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “goal,” “future,” “outlook,” “guidance,” “target,” “objective,” “estimate,” “projection” and similar words or expressions, including the negative version of such words and expressions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, without limitation, factors relating to the Exchange Offer, including actions taken by Choice in connection with such offer, actions taken by Wyndham or its stockholders in respect of the Exchange Offer or other actions or developments involving Choice, such as a potential proxy contest, the completion or failure to complete the Exchange Offer, the effects of such offer on our business, such as the cost, loss of time and disruption; general economic conditions, including inflation, higher interest rates and potential recessionary pressures; global or regional health crises or pandemics (such as the COVID-19 pandemic) including the resulting impact on the Company’s business operations, financial results, cash flows and liquidity, as well as the impact on its franchisees, guests and team members, the hospitality industry and overall demand for and restrictions on travel; the performance of the financial and credit markets; the economic environment for the hospitality industry; operating risks associated with the hotel franchising business; the Company’s relationships with franchisees; the impact of war, terrorist activity, political instability or political strife, including the ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and between Israel and Hamas; the Company’s ability to satisfy obligations and agreements under its outstanding indebtedness, including the payment of principal and interest and compliance with the covenants thereunder; risks related to the Company’s ability to obtain financing and the terms of such financing, including access to liquidity and capital; and the Company’s ability to make or pay, plans for and the timing and amount of any future share repurchases and/or dividends, as well as the risks described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise, except as required by law.
New Wyndham Grand Ijin Busan offers guests a chic, upscale oceanside escape in the country’s second-largest city centre
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (November 2, 2023) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,100 hotels spanning more than 95 countries, announced the opening of Wyndham Grand Ijin Busan. The 271-room hotel marks the debut of the esteemed Wyndham Grand brand into the beautiful country of South Korea.
Wyndham’s strategic expansion in South Korea comes when there is increasing demand for travel to the popular destination, with the number of international visitors surpassing 1 million for the first time in July 2023 since the onset of the pandemic, according to data from the Korea Tourism Organization. Busan’s well-known reputation as a stunning coastal destination coupled with its fresh seafood offerings gives Wyndham guests extraordinary opportunity to indulge in memorable experiences in the country.
Ben Schumacher, Vice President of Operations South East Asia & Pacific Rim (SEAPR), Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, shared, “South Korea offers endless opportunity for international travellers to experience new cultures, visit historic landmarks and create long-lasting memories. Introducing Wyndham Grand to Busan not only adds to our growing portfolio in the region, but also unlocks remarkable experiences for guests in a vibrant city with world-class amenities to make their stay special.”
Wyndham Grand offers guests an upscale ensemble of distinguished hotels that are approachable by design, representing one-of-a-kind experiences with refined accommodations, attentive service, and relaxed surroundings. With over 70 Wyndham Grand hotels around the globe, Wyndham Grand Ijin Busan joins other recent openings including Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord’s Castle Resort & Spa and Wyndham Grand Krakow Old Town, while adding to Wyndham’s growing portfolio of more than 1,700 hotels across Asia Pacific.
An Indulgent Coastal Getaway Wyndham Grand Ijin Busan is located in the country’s second largest city and offers 271 rooms that overlook a breathtaking coastline. Boasting a distinctive, elegant design, the hotel perfectly caters to business and leisure travellers, and features spacious rooms and suites, a variety of dining options with both local and international cuisines, a rejuvenating spa, a heated indoor pool with dazzling views of the Namhang Bridge and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
The hotel is conveniently located for visitors looking to immerse themselves into the local culture, just under 20 kilometres from Gimhae International Airport. Beach lovers can enjoy the beauty of Songdo Beach, while others may check out hidden gems in the area including the Songdo Marine Cable Car, the world-famous Jagalchi Market – Korea’s largest seafood market – and views of the stunning national geo-park Taejongdae. Wyndham Grand Ijin Busan also offers six elegant event venues, perfect for meetings, weddings and special events including a ballroom that can host 700 conference guests or 550 banquet guests.
For additional images associated with this release, click here.
###
About Wyndham Grand Travel is the best excuse to enjoy the grand things in life. With locations in some of the world’s most sought-after vacation destinations – including Istanbul, Doha, Salzburg and Orlando – Wyndham Grand hotels transform ordinary moments into unforgettable experiences. Approachable by design, this upper-upscale hotel brand helps travellers make every moment count. Learn more at www.wyndhamgrand.com.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,100 hotels across over 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 858,000 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 24 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers approximately 105 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.
Company Raises Full-Year 2023 EPS Outlook, Grows Development Pipeline by Another 12%
PARSIPPANY, N.J., October 25, 2023 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months ended September 30, 2023. Highlights include:
Global RevPAR grew 3% compared to third quarter 2022 in constant currency.
System-wide rooms grew 3% year-over-year.
Development pipeline grew 4% sequentially and 12% year-over-year to a record 237,000 rooms.
Signed over 230 contracts, an increase of 8% year-over-year, including 60 new construction projects for ECHO Suites Extended Stay by Wyndham.
Returned $134 million to shareholders through $105 million of share repurchases and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.35 per share.
“We recently announced our Board of Directors unanimously rejected an unsolicited stock-and-cash proposal by Choice Hotels to acquire our company. Our Board of Directors, together with our financial and legal advisors, closely reviewed Choice’s latest proposal and determined, for multiple reasons, that it is not in the best interest of our shareholders. They remain confident that our standalone growth prospects offer superior, risk-adjusted returns to Wyndham shareholders,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “Supporting that belief are our third quarter results, which were highlighted by continued growth in global RevPAR, ongoing domestic and international organic net room growth and another 8% increase in hotel contracts awarded to franchisees driving our development pipeline to a record 1,930 hotels. Our economy brands gained market share domestically amidst a backdrop of normalizing U.S. leisure demand, and international occupancy continued to recover. Adjusted EBITDA grew in line with our expectations, we generated strong free cash flow and we returned significant capital to our shareholders. We remain focused on our growth strategy, which includes continued system expansion through our ECHO Suites by Wyndham brand and further improvements in franchisee retention, as well as the multi-year benefit expected from the U.S. infrastructure bill. We’re enthusiastic about our ability to deliver exceptional value to our shareholders, guests, franchisees and team members in the months and years ahead.”
Third Quarter Financial Results
Fee-related and other revenues was $400 million compared to $375 million in third quarter 2022 reflecting global RevPAR and net room growth, higher license and ancillary fees as well as the pass-through revenues associated with the Company’s global franchisee conference in September, which was held for the first time since 2019.
The Company generated net income of $103 million, or $1.21 per diluted share, compared to $101 million, or $1.13 per diluted share, in third quarter 2022. The increase was reflective of higher adjusted EBITDA in the Company’s hotel franchising segment and a lower effective tax rate, partially offset by higher interest expense. Adjusted diluted EPS grew 8% reflecting higher net income and a lower share count due to share repurchase activity. Adjusted EBITDA increased 5% to $200 million primarily reflecting higher fee-related and other revenues as well as marketing fund variability. During third quarter 2023, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $17 million; while in third quarter 2022, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $12 million.
Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the Company’s non-GAAP adjusted measures for all reported periods appear in the tables to this press release.
System Size
The Company’s global system grew 3%, reflecting 1% growth in the U.S. and 6% growth internationally. As expected, these increases included strong growth in both the higher RevPAR midscale and above segments in the U.S. and the direct franchising business in China, which grew 4% and 16%, respectively.
RevPAR
Third quarter global RevPAR grew by 3% in constant currency compared to 2022 reflecting a 1% decline in the U.S. and growth of 16% internationally. The Company had achieved record-breaking RevPAR in the U.S. during the preceding year due to COVID-impacted travel patterns. The Company’s U.S. economy brands gained market share of 100 basis points in the third quarter. Comparing to 2019 to neutralize for COVID-impacted travel patterns, U.S. RevPAR grew 9%, a 30 basis point acceleration from second quarter 2023 growth. International RevPAR growth was driven by higher occupancy levels and stronger pricing power in connection with COVID recovery, and compared to 2019 grew 45% on a constant-currency basis, a 120 basis point acceleration from second quarter 2023 growth.
Development
On September 30, 2023, the Company’s global development pipeline consisted of over 1,930 hotels and approximately 237,000 rooms, representing a 12% year-over-year increase, including 16% growth in the U.S.
Approximately 69% of the Company’s pipeline is in the midscale and above segments.
Approximately 58% of the Company’s development pipeline is international.
Approximately 80% of the Company’s pipeline is new construction, of which approximately 34% has broken ground.
During third quarter 2023, the Company awarded 172 new contracts for its legacy brands, an increase of 4% year-over-year. Additionally, the Company awarded 60 additional new contracts for its ECHO Suites Extended Stay by Wyndham brand and, as of September 30, 2023, the total number of contracts awarded for the brand was 265, or nearly 33,000 rooms.
Balance Sheet and Liquidity
As of September 30, 2023, the Company had $2.2 billion of long-term debt outstanding with a weighted average interest rate of 4.9%. The Company borrowed $110 million on its revolving credit facility during the third quarter and had an available borrowing capacity of $631 million after considering $9 million of outstanding letters of credit as of September 30, 2023. The Company ended the quarter with a cash balance of $79 million and approximately $710 million in total liquidity.
The Company generated net cash provided by operating activities of $77 million and free cash flow of $67 million in third quarter 2023.
The Company has pay-fixed/receive-variable interest rate swaps in place to hedge $600 million of the Term Loan B Facility, set to expire in the second quarter of 2024. During the third quarter of 2023, the Company executed $600 million of new forward starting interest rate swaps on the Term Loan B Facility, which will begin in second quarter 2024 and expire in 2028. The fixed rate of the new swaps is 3.8%.
Share Repurchases and Dividends
During the third quarter, the Company repurchased approximately 1.4 million shares of its common stock for $105 million. Year-to-date through September 30, the Company repurchased approximately 3.8 million shares of its common stock for $270 million.
The Company paid common stock dividends of $29 million, or $0.35 per share.
Rejection of Unsolicited Offer
On October 17, 2023, the Company announced that its Board of Directors unanimously rejected a highly conditional, unsolicited stock-and-cash proposal by Choice Hotels International, Inc. (“Choice”) to acquire all outstanding shares of Wyndham. Wyndham’s Board of Directors, together with its financial and legal advisors, closely reviewed Choice’s latest proposal with a nominal value of $90 per share, comprised of 45% in stock and 55% in cash, and determined that it is not in the best interest of Wyndham shareholders to accept the proposal.
Full-Year 2023 Outlook
The Company is updating its outlook as follows to reflect the impact of third quarter share repurchase activity:
Year-over-year growth rates are not comparable due to the sale of the Company’s owned hotels and the exit of its select-service management business, both of which occurred during 2022, as well as the variability in its marketing funds due to the support that the Company provided to its owners during 2020.
The Company’s expectations for full-year 2023 marketing funds contribution to adjusted EBITDA is unchanged at $10 million. The Company expects fund revenues will outpace fund expenses by approximately $11 million during the fourth quarter.
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, October 26, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. ET. Listeners can access the webcast live through the Company’s website at https://investor.wyndhamhotels.com. The conference call may also be accessed by dialing 800 225-9448 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 October 26, 2023. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on October 26, 2023 at 800 839-6964.
Presentation of Financial Information
Financial information discussed in this press release includes non-GAAP measures, which include or exclude certain items. These non-GAAP measures differ from reported GAAP results and are intended to illustrate what management believes are relevant period-over-period comparisons and are helpful to investors as an additional tool for further understanding and assessing the Company’s ongoing operating performance. The Company uses these measures internally to assess its operating performance, both absolutely and in comparison to other companies, and to make day to day operating decisions, including in the evaluation of selected compensation decisions. Exclusion of items in the Company’s non-GAAP presentation should not be considered an inference that these items are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring. Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the comparable non-GAAP measures for the reported periods appear in the financial tables section of this press release.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,100 hotels across over 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 858,000 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 24 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers approximately 105 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 https://investor.wyndhamhotels.com. Accordingly, investors should monitor this section of the Company’s website in addition to following the Company’s press releases, filings submitted with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any public conference calls or webcasts.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements related to the Company’s current views and expectations with respect to its future performance and operations, including revenues, earnings, cash flow and other financial and operating measures, share repurchases and dividends and restructuring charges. The Company claims the protection of the Safe Harbor contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include those that convey management’s expectations as to the future based on plans, estimates and projections at the time the Company makes the statements and may be identified by words such as “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “goal,” “future,” “outlook,” “guidance,” “target,” “objective,” “estimate,” “projection” and similar words or expressions, including the negative version of such words and expressions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, without limitation, general economic conditions, including inflation, higher interest rates and potential recessionary pressures; the worsening of the effects from the coronavirus pandemic (“COVID-19”); COVID-19’s scope, duration, resurgence and impact on the Company’s business operations, financial results, cash flows and liquidity, as well as the impact on the Company’s franchisees, guests and team members, the hospitality industry and overall demand for and restrictions on travel the Company’s continued performance during the recovery from COVID-19 and any resurgence or mutations of the virus concerns with or threats of other pandemics, contagious diseases or health epidemics, including the effects of COVID-19; the performance of the financial and credit markets; the economic environment for the hospitality industry; operating risks associated with the hotel franchising businesses; the Company’s relationships with franchisees; the impact of war, terrorist activity, political instability or political strife, including the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine; the Company’s ability to satisfy obligations and agreements under its outstanding indebtedness, including the payment of principal and interest and compliance with the covenants thereunder; risks related to the Company’s ability to obtain financing and the terms of such financing, including access to liquidity and capital; and the Company’s ability to make or pay, plans for and the timing and amount of any future share repurchases and/or dividends, as well as the risks described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Company Grows Development Pipeline by 10% and Global RevPAR by 7% Successfully Completes Refinancing Transaction Board Increases Share Repurchase Authorization by $400 Million
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (July 26, 2023) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months ended June 30, 2023. Highlights include:
Global RevPAR grew 7% compared to second quarter 2022 in constant currency.
System-wide rooms grew 4% year-over-year.
Development pipeline grew 1% sequentially and 10% year-over-year.
Signings of 24,000 rooms grew 6% year-over-year and 7% compared to 2019.
Awarded 60 new construction projects for ECHO Suites Extended Stay by Wyndham in July, including its first hotels in Canada, bringing the total number of contracts to 265.
Returned $139 million to shareholders through $109 million of share repurchases and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.35 per share.
Successfully completed the refinancing of its Term Loan B Facility, extending maturity from 2025 to 2030.
“During the second quarter, we celebrated the tremendous progress we’ve made in our five-year journey as a new public company with another quarter of solid results including global RevPAR growth of 7%, net room growth of 4% and the 12th consecutive quarter of sequential growth in our development pipeline, which has never been stronger,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “International travel demand continues to accelerate, our U.S. economy brands continue to outperform the industry and our nation’s infrastructure bill spend is expected to represent a meaningful tailwind for our franchisees in the months and years ahead. We remain very confident in our ability to deliver outstanding value for our franchisees and shareholders, as does our Board of Directors who today approved a $400 million increase in our share repurchase authorization, reflecting their confidence in the ongoing strength of our business and our strong free cash flow.”
Second Quarter Financial Results
The comparability of the Company’s second quarter results is impacted by the sale of its owned hotels and the exit of its select-service management business, both of which occurred in 2022, as well as quarterly timing variances from its marketing funds. The Company’s reported results and comparable-basis results (adjusted to neutralize these impacts) are presented below to enhance transparency and provide a better understanding of the results of the Company’s ongoing operations:
Fee-related and other revenues was $358 million compared to $354 million in second quarter 2022, which included $12 million from the Company’s select-service management business and owned hotels. On a comparable basis, fee-related and other revenues increased 5% year-over-year primarily reflecting higher royalties and franchise fees resulting from global RevPAR and system growth.
The Company generated net income of $70 million, or $0.82 per diluted share, compared to $92 million, or $1.00 per diluted share, in second quarter 2022. The decline in net income was expected and reflective of the marketing fund variability, higher interest expense and transaction-related costs primarily related to the Company’s refinancing of its Term Loan B Facility. On a comparable basis, adjusted diluted earnings per share grew 10% reflecting 8% growth in comparable basis adjusted EBITDA and a lower share count due to share repurchase activity.
Adjusted EBITDA was $158 million compared to $175 million in second quarter 2022. On a comparable basis, adjusted EBITDA increased 8% year-over-year primarily reflecting higher fee-related and other revenues.
During second quarter 2023, the Company’s marketing fund expenses exceeded revenues by $15 million; while in second quarter 2022, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $12 million, resulting in $27 million of marketing fund variability.
Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the Company’s non-GAAP adjusted measures for all reported periods appear in the tables to this press release.
System Size
The Company’s global system grew 4%, reflecting 1% growth in the U.S. and 9% growth internationally. As expected, these increases included strong growth in both the higher RevPAR midscale and above segments in the U.S. and the direct franchising business in China, which grew 4% and 13%, respectively, as well as 80 basis points of growth globally and 200 basis points internationally from the acquisition of the Vienna House brand. The Company remains solidly on track to achieve its net room growth outlook of 2 to 4% for the full year 2023, including an increase in its retention rate compared to 2022.
RevPAR
Second quarter global RevPAR grew by 7% in constant currency compared to 2022 reflecting a 1% decline in the U.S. and growth of 34% internationally. The Company had achieved record-breaking RevPAR in the U.S. during the preceding year due to COVID-impacted travel patterns. Comparing to 2019 to neutralize for these impacts, U.S. RevPAR grew 8%, a 30 basis point acceleration from first quarter 2023 growth. The international RevPAR growth was driven equally by stronger pricing power and higher occupancy levels.
Development
On June 30, 2023, the Company’s global development pipeline consisted of nearly 1,850 hotels and approximately 228,000 rooms, representing a 10% year-over-year increase, including 22% growth in the U.S.
Approximately 72% of the Company’s pipeline is in the midscale and above segments.
Approximately 57% of the Company’s development pipeline is international.
Approximately 81% of the Company’s pipeline is new construction, of which approximately 35% has broken ground.
During second quarter 2023, the Company awarded 179 new contracts for its legacy brands, an increase of 8% year-over-year. In July, the Company awarded 60 additional new contracts for its ECHO Suites Extended Stay by Wyndham brand to established and experienced developers, including what will be the brand’s first hotels in Canada. This brings the total number of contracts awarded for the brand to 265 since its launch, or nearly 33,000 rooms.
Cash and Liquidity
The Company generated net cash provided by operating activities of $83 million and free cash flow of $74 million in second quarter 2023. The Company ended the quarter with a cash balance of $63 million and approximately $800 million in total liquidity.
In May 2023, the Company successfully amended and extended its outstanding Senior Secured Term Loan B Facility (“Prior Term Loan B”), which was due May 2025. The new $1.1 billion Senior Secured Term Loan B Facility (“New Term Loan B”) matures in May 2030 and carries an interest rate of SOFR plus 2.25% (with a 0.10% credit spread adjustment). The net proceeds from the New Term Loan B were used to repay all outstanding principal under the Company’s Prior Term Loan B.
As a result of this transaction, the Company moved its next material debt maturity to 2027 and increased its weighted average maturity from 3.2 to 6.0 years, providing significant financial flexibility to execute on the Company’s strategic objectives of delivering outstanding value to its guests and franchisees while driving strong shareholder return.
Share Repurchases and Dividends
During the second quarter, the Company repurchased approximately 1.6 million shares of its common stock for $109 million at an average price of $68.56 per share. Year-to-date through June 30, the Company repurchased approximately 2.4 million shares of its common stock for $165 million at an average price of $69.20 per share. The Company’s Board of Directors recently increased the Company’s share repurchase authorization by $400 million.
The Company paid common stock dividends of $30 million, or $0.35 per share.
Full-Year 2023 Outlook
The Company is refining its outlook as follows:
The reduction in adjusted net income represents an increase in interest expense due, in part, to the refinancing of the Company’s Term Loan B. This impact was offset in adjusted diluted EPS by second quarter share repurchase activity.
Year-over-year growth rates are not comparable due to the sale of the Company’s owned hotels and the exit of its select-service management business, both of which occurred during 2022, as well as the variability in its marketing funds due to the support that the Company provided to its owners during 2020.
The Company’s expectations for full-year 2023 marketing funds contribution to adjusted EBITDA is unchanged at $10 million. The Company expects fund revenues will outpace fund expenses by $29 million in the second half of 2023 with approximately $10 million to $15 million per quarter.
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, July 27, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. ET. Listeners can access the webcast live through the Company’s website at https://investor.wyndhamhotels.com. The conference call may also be accessed by dialing 800 267-6316 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 July 27, 2023. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on July 27, 2023 at 800 839-5124.
Presentation of Financial Information
Financial information discussed in this press release includes non-GAAP measures, which include or exclude certain items. These non-GAAP measures differ from reported GAAP results and are intended to illustrate what management believes are relevant period-over-period comparisons and are helpful to investors as an additional tool for further understanding and assessing the Company’s ongoing operating performance. The Company uses these measures internally to assess its operating performance, both absolutely and in comparison to other companies, and to make day to day operating decisions, including in the evaluation of selected compensation decisions. Exclusion of items in the Company’s non-GAAP presentation should not be considered an inference that these items are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring. Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the comparable non-GAAP measures for the reported periods appear in the financial tables section of this press release.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,100 hotels across over 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 852,000 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 24 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 103 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com. The Company may use its website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Disclosures of this nature will be included on the Company’s website in the Investors section, which can currently be accessed at www.investor.wyndhamhotels.com. Accordingly, investors should monitor this section of the Company’s website in addition to following the Company’s press releases, filings submitted with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any public conference calls or webcasts.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements related to the Company’s current views and expectations with respect to its future performance and operations, including revenues, earnings, cash flow and other financial and operating measures, share repurchases and dividends and restructuring charges. The Company claims the protection of the Safe Harbor contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include those that convey management’s expectations as to the future based on plans, estimates and projections at the time the Company makes the statements and may be identified by words such as “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “goal,” “future,” “outlook,” “guidance,” “target,” “objective,” “estimate,” “projection” and similar words or expressions, including the negative version of such words and expressions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, without limitation, general economic conditions, including inflation, higher interest rates and potential recessionary pressures; the worsening of the effects from the coronavirus pandemic (“COVID-19”); COVID-19’s scope, duration, resurgence and impact on the Company’s business operations, financial results, cash flows and liquidity, as well as the impact on the Company’s franchisees, guests and team members, the hospitality industry and overall demand for and restrictions on travel the Company’s continued performance during the recovery from COVID-19 and any resurgence or mutations of the virus concerns with or threats of other pandemics, contagious diseases or health epidemics, including the effects of COVID-19; the performance of the financial and credit markets; the economic environment for the hospitality industry; operating risks associated with the hotel franchising businesses; the Company’s relationships with franchisees; the impact of war, terrorist activity, political instability or political strife, including the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine; the Company’s ability to satisfy obligations and agreements under its outstanding indebtedness, including the payment of principal and interest and compliance with the covenants thereunder; risks related to the Company’s ability to obtain financing and the terms of such financing, including access to liquidity and capital; and the Company’s ability to make or pay, plans for and the timing and amount of any future share repurchases and/or dividends, as well as the risks described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Company Raises Full-Year 2022 Outlook and Grows Global Development Pipeline by 9% to a Record 208,000 Rooms
PARSIPPANY, N.J., July 26, 2022 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months ended June 30, 2022. Highlights include:
Global RevPAR grew 23% compared to second quarter 2021 in constant currency.
System-wide rooms grew 3% year-over-year, including 2% of growth in the U.S. and 4% of growth internationally.
Hotel Franchising segment revenues grew 18% year-over-year.
Diluted earnings per share of $1.00 and adjusted diluted earnings per share of $1.07.
Net income of $92 million and adjusted net income of $99 million .
Adjusted EBITDA of $175 million.
Year-to-date net cash provided by operating activities of $242 million and free cash flow of $224 million.
Domestic development signings increased 77%, including 22 new construction projects for the Company’s new extended-stay brand, bringing the total number to 72 since launch in March.
Completed the sale of the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Resort.
Returned $171 million to shareholders through $142 million of share repurchases and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.32 per share.
Company raises full-year 2022 outlook.
“We kicked off our high-demand summer season with the strongest Memorial Day we’ve ever experienced, as guests traveled further, stayed longer and spent more at our hotels than they did pre-pandemic,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “Our business experienced another strong quarter performing above both last year and 2019 as international recovery accelerated and our development teams grew our pipeline to a record level. Our second quarter results once again demonstrated the strength and durability of our business model and we are well on track to deliver on our 2022 commitments.”
Fee-related and other revenues increased 10% year-over-year to $354 million as the impact from the increase of global RevPAR and higher license fees were partially offset by a $21 million impact from the sale of the Company’s owned hotels and the exit of its select-service management business.
The Company generated net income of $92 million, or $1.00 per diluted share, an increase of $24 million, or $0.27 per diluted share, reflecting higher adjusted EBITDA, lower depreciation and amortization expense due to the sale of the Company’s owned hotels and lower expenses associated with the early extinguishment of debt. Adjusted EBITDA increased $7 million, or 4%, versus 2021 to $175 million reflecting the revenue growth, which was partially offset by an $8 million impact from the sale of the Company’s owned hotels and the exit of its select-service management business as well as a $2 million unfavorable timing impact from the marketing fund.
Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the Company’s non-GAAP adjusted measures for all reported periods appear in the tables to this press release.
System Size
The Company’s global system grew 3%, reflecting 2% growth in the U.S. and 4% growth internationally. As expected, these increases included strong growth in both the higher RevPAR midscale and above segments in the U.S. and the direct franchising business in China, which grew 7% and 12%, respectively. The Company remains solidly on track with its goal of achieving a retention rate above 95% and its net room growth outlook of 2 to 4% for the full year 2022.
RevPAR
Second quarter RevPAR grew 23% globally in constant currency, including 15% growth in the U.S. and 59% growth internationally. The increase is approximately 80% driven by stronger pricing power and 20% driven by higher occupancy levels.
Business Segment Discussion
Hotel Franchising revenues increased 18% year-over-year to $335 million primarily due to the global RevPAR increase and higher license and other fees. Hotel Franchising adjusted EBITDA increased 11% to $185 million reflecting the growth in revenues, partially offset by a 340 basis point unfavorable timing impact from the marketing fund.
Hotel Management revenues decreased 59% year-over-year to $51 million, including a $53 million decrease in cost-reimbursement revenues, which have no impact on adjusted EBITDA. Absent cost-reimbursements, Hotel Management revenues decreased $19 million, or 50%, to $19 million due to the sale of the Company’s owned hotels and the exit of its select-service management business. Hotel Management adjusted EBITDA decreased $10 million year-over-year reflecting the same.
Development
The Company awarded 187 new contracts this quarter compared to 154 in the second quarter 2021. On June 30, 2022, the Company’s global development pipeline consisted of approximately 1,600 hotels and approximately 208,000 rooms, of which approximately 80% is in the midscale and above segments (nearly 70% in the U.S.). The pipeline grew 9% year-over-year, including 17% domestically and 5% internationally. Approximately 62% of the Company’s development pipeline is international and 78% is new construction, of which approximately 36% has broken ground.
Sale of Owned Hotel
On May 24, 2022, the Company completed the sale of the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Resort in Puerto Rico for gross proceeds of approximately $62 million. There was no gain or loss on the sale as the proceeds approximated adjusted net book value. The Company entered into a 20-year franchise agreement with the buyer.
Cash and Liquidity
The Company generated $242 million of net cash provided by operating activities year-to-date and $224 million of free cash flow. The Company ended the quarter with a cash balance of $400 million and approximately $1.1 billion in total liquidity.
Share Repurchases and Dividends
During the second quarter, the Company repurchased approximately 1.9 million shares of its common stock for $142 million. The Company also paid common stock dividends of $29 million, or $0.32 per share, in the second quarter.
Full-Year 2022 Outlook
The Company is increasing its outlook as follows to reflect future projections related to the Company’s license fees from Travel & Leisure based on their full-year 2022 Gross VOI Sales outlook provided on April 28, 2022 as well as the impact of second quarter share repurchase activity:
(a) Represents the percentage of adjusted EBITDA that is expected to produce free cash flow.
More detailed projections are available in Table 8 of this press release. The Company is providing certain financial metrics only on a non-GAAP basis because, without unreasonable efforts, it is unable to predict with reasonable certainty the occurrence or amount of all of the adjustments or other potential adjustments that may arise in the future during the forward-looking period, which can be dependent on future events that may not be reliably predicted. Based on past reported results, where one or more of these items have been applicable, such excluded items could be material, individually or in the aggregate, to the reported results.
Conference Call Information Wyndham Hotels will hold a conference call with investors to discuss the Company’s results and outlook on Wednesday, July 27, 2022 at 8:30 a.m. ET. Listeners can access the webcast live through the Company’s website at https://investor.wyndhamhotels.com. The conference call may also be accessed by dialing 888 632-3382 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 July 27, 2022. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on July 27, 2022 at 800 925-9942.
Presentation of Financial Information Financial information discussed in this press release includes non-GAAP measures, which include or exclude certain items. These non-GAAP measures differ from reported GAAP results and are intended to illustrate what management believes are relevant period-over-period comparisons and are helpful to investors as an additional tool for further understanding and assessing the Company’s ongoing operating performance. The Company uses these measures internally to assess its operating performance, both absolutely and in comparison to other companies, and to make day to day operating decisions, including in the evaluation of selected compensation decisions. Exclusion of items in the Company’s non-GAAP presentation should not be considered an inference that these items are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring. Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the comparable non-GAAP measures for the reported periods appear in the financial tables section of this press release.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across over 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 819,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8®, Days Inn®, Ramada®, Microtel®, La Quinta®, Baymont®, Wingate®, AmericInn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Trademark Collection® and Wyndham®. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 95 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com. The Company may use its website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Disclosures of this nature will be included on the Company’s website in the Investors section, which can currently be accessed at www.investor.wyndhamhotels.com. Accordingly, investors should monitor this section of the Company’s website in addition to following the Company’s press releases, filings submitted with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any public conference calls or webcasts.
Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements related to the Company’s current views and expectations with respect to its future performance and operations, including revenues, earnings, cash flow and other financial and operating measures, share repurchases and dividends, restructuring charges and statements related to the coronavirus pandemic (“COVID-19”). Forward-looking statements include those that convey management’s expectations as to the future based on plans, estimates and projections at the time the Company makes the statements and may be identified by words such as “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “goal,” “future,” “outlook,” “guidance,” “target,” “objective,” “estimate,” “projection” and similar words or expressions, including the negative version of such words and expressions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, without limitation, general economic conditions; the continuation or worsening of the effects from COVID-19, its scope, duration, resurgence and impact on the Company’s business operations, financial results, cash flows and liquidity, as well as the impact on the Company’s franchisees and property owners, guests and team members, the hospitality industry and overall demand for travel; the success of the Company’s mitigation efforts in response to COVID-19; the Company’s performance during the recovery from COVID-19 and any resurgence or mutations of the virus; various actions governments, businesses and individuals continue to take in response to the pandemic, including stay-in-place directives (including, for instance, quarantine and isolation guidelines and mandates), safety mitigation guidance, as well as the timing, availability and adoption rates of vaccinations, booster shots and other treatments for COVID-19; concerns with or threats of other pandemics, contagious diseases or health epidemics, including the effects of COVID-19; the performance of the financial and credit markets; the economic environment for the hospitality industry; operating risks associated with the hotel franchising and management businesses; the Company’s relationships with franchisees and property owners; the impact of war, terrorist activity, political instability or political strife; risks related to restructuring or strategic initiatives; the Company’s ability to satisfy obligations and agreements under its outstanding indebtedness, including the payment of principal and interest and compliance with the covenants thereunder; risks related to the Company’s ability to obtain financing and the terms of such financing, including access to liquidity and capital; and the Company’s ability to make or pay, plans for, and the timing and amount of any future share repurchases and/or dividends, as well as the risks described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise.
Company Increases Dividend 33% to Pre-Pandemic Level Raises Full-Year 2021 Outlook
PARSIPPANY, N.J., October 27, 2021 – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months ended September 30, 2021. Highlights include:
S. RevPAR exceeded 2019 levels by 7%, growing 59% versus 2020.
System-wide rooms grew 60 basis points sequentially, including 40 basis points of growth in the U.S. and 80 basis points of growth internationally.
Diluted earnings per share of $1.09 compared to $0.29 in third quarter 2020; adjusted diluted EPS of $1.16 compared to $0.36 in third quarter 2020.
Net income of $103 million compared to $27 million in third quarter 2020; adjusted net income of $109 million compared to $34 million in third quarter 2020.
Adjusted EBITDA of $194 million compared to $103 million in third quarter 2020.
Net cash provided by operating activities of $147 million compared to $97 million in third quarter 2020; free cash flow of $141 million compared to $92 million in third quarter 2020.
Returned $50 million to shareholders in the quarter through $27 million of share repurchases and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.24 per share.
Board of Directors recently authorized a 33% increase in the quarterly cash dividend to pre-pandemic level of $0.32 per share beginning with the dividend expected to be declared in fourth quarter 2021.
Company raises full-year 2021 outlook.
“Our resilient select-service franchising business model continues to lead the industry’s recovery with RevPAR well in excess of 2019 levels. These results have been fueled by the many investments we made over the last two years to capture an increasing share of both leisure and everyday business travel,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “Developer interest in our brands is strong. Our pipeline grew another 440 basis points and is now at pre-pandemic levels. At the same time our teams opened over 50% more rooms than we opened last year, and more rooms than we opened in the third quarter of 2019. Our diversified brand portfolio, now including our newly launched upper midscale all-inclusive brand, Alltra, and compelling owner value proposition, combined with our asset-light business model positions us to deliver strong free cash flow and shareholder returns well into the future.”
Fee-related and other revenues increased 48% to $377 million compared to $255 million in the third quarter of 2020 primarily reflecting the ongoing recovery in travel demand and its impact on global RevPAR, which has now recovered to 97% of 2019 levels, including domestic RevPAR at 7% above 2019.
The Company generated net income of $103 million, or $1.09 per diluted share, compared to net income of $27 million, or $0.29 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2020. The increase of $76 million, or $0.80 per diluted share, reflects the increase in fee-related and other revenues and lower net interest expense, partially offset by higher volume-related expenses due to the ongoing recovery in travel demand.
The following discussion of third 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
Year-to-date, the Company’s global system grew 80 basis points, reflecting quarter-over-quarter sequential growth of 60 basis points driven by 40 basis points of growth in the U.S. and 80 basis points of growth internationally. Third quarter room openings exceeded 2019 levels by 4% globally reflecting a 46% increase in domestic additions. The Company’s annualized retention rate through third quarter stood at approximately 95%, putting the Company solidly on track with its goal of achieving a 95% retention rate and its net room growth outlook of 1.5 to 2% for the full year 2021.
RevPAR
Global and international RevPAR began to lap the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in January 2021, while the U.S. began to lap its onset in March 2021. As such, comparisons to 2019 (on a two-year, constant currency basis) are more meaningful when evaluating trends. On this basis, third quarter RevPAR in the U.S. exceeded 2019 levels by 7% while global RevPAR recovered to 97% of 2019 levels and international RevPAR declined 25%. The 7% increase in the U.S. represents continued sequential improvement compared to a decline of 5% in the second quarter of 2021. Notably, RevPAR for the Company’s economy brands exceeded 2019 levels by 14% in the third quarter. The 25% international decline demonstrates strong sequential progress from a 44% decline in second quarter led by growth in regions where travel restrictions subsided. Canada improved 32 points to a 17% decline and EMEA improved 43 points to a 25% decline, partially offset by a 10 point sequential decrease to a 17% decline in China due to travel restrictions resulting from local COVID outbreaks in August and September.
Business Segment Results
Hotel Franchising revenues increased 43% year-over-year to $337 million primarily due to the global RevPAR increase. Hotel Franchising adjusted EBITDA increased 62% to $193 million reflecting the growth in revenues as well as a timing benefit from the marketing fund, partially offset by higher volume-related expenses.
Hotel Management revenues increased 25% year-over-year to $126 million, including a $4 million increase in cost-reimbursement revenues, which have no impact on adjusted EBITDA. Absent cost-reimbursements, Hotel Management revenues increased $21 million, or 111%, to $40 million primarily due to the global RevPAR increase, as well as improved performance at the Company’s owned hotels. Hotel Management adjusted EBITDA increased $14 million year-over-year reflecting the revenue increases, partially offset by higher volume-related expenses, and reflecting significant margin expansion (excluding cost reimbursements) to 40% in 2021 from 11% in 2020.
During the third quarter 2021, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $19 million; while in third quarter 2020, the Company’s marketing fund expenses exceeded revenues by $8 million.
Development The Company awarded 151 new contracts this quarter, 3% higher than 2019. On September 30, 2021, the Company’s global development pipeline consisted of over 1,450 hotels and approximately 193,000 rooms. The pipeline grew 440 basis points year-over-year and 120 basis points sequentially – including 90 basis points domestically and 140 basis points internationally. Approximately 65% of the Company’s development pipeline is international and 76% is new construction, of which approximately 34% has broken ground.
Cash and Liquidity The Company generated $147 million of net cash provided by operating activities in the third quarter of 2021 compared to $97 million in third quarter 2020. The Company generated $141 million of free cash flow in the third quarter of 2021 compared to $92 million in the third quarter 2020.
At September 30, 2021, the Company had $193 million of cash on its balance sheet and approximately $930 million in total liquidity. The Company’s net debt leverage ratio was 3.7 times at September 30, 2021 and within the Company’s 3 to 4 times stated target range.
Share Repurchases and Dividends During the third quarter of 2021, the Company repurchased approximately 374,000 shares of its common stock for $27 million at an average price of $73.13 per share.
The Company paid common stock dividends of $23 million, or $0.24 per share, in the third quarter of 2021. The Company’s Board of Directors authorized a 33% increase in the quarterly cash dividend to pre-pandemic level of $0.32 per share, beginning with the dividend expected to be declared in fourth quarter 2021.
2021 Outlook The Company updated its outlook for full-year 2021 as follows:
Net rooms growth of 1.5% to 2% versus our prior outlook of 1% to 2%.
RevPAR growth of approximately 43% versus 2020, or a decline of approximately 14% compared to 2019, which is improved from growth of approximately 40% versus 2020, or a decline of approximately 16% compared to 2019.
Fee-related and other revenues of $1.21 billion to $1.23 billion, up from $1.16 billion to $1.19 billion.
Adjusted EBITDA of $560 million to $570 million, up from $525 million to $535 million.
Adjusted net income of $275 million to $285 million, up from $244 million to $254 million.
Adjusted diluted EPS of $2.93 to $3.03, up from $2.60 to $2.70, based on a diluted share count of 94.0 million that excludes any share repurchases after September 30, 2021.
Free cash conversion from Adjusted EBITDA of approximately 60%, up from approximately 55%.
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, October 28, 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 877 876-9173 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 October 28, 2021. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on October 28, 2021 at 800 839-4992.
Company Increases Quarterly Dividend 50% and Provides Full Year 2021 Outlook
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (July 28, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) today announced results for the three months ended June 30, 2021. Highlights include:
Second quarter diluted earnings per share was $0.73 compared to diluted loss per share of $1.86 in second quarter 2020; second quarter adjusted diluted EPS was $0.95 compared to adjusted diluted EPS of $0.10 in second quarter 2020.
Second quarter net income was $68 million compared to a net loss of $174 million in second quarter 2020; second quarter adjusted net income was $89 million compared to adjusted net income of $9 million in second quarter 2020.
Second quarter adjusted EBITDA was $168 million compared to adjusted EBITDA of $66 million in second quarter 2020.
Second quarter net cash provided by operating activities was $116 million and free cash flow was $104 million compared to net cash used in operating activities of $57 million and free cash flow of $(68) million in second quarter 2020.
Global RevPAR increased 110% compared to second quarter 2020 and declined 17% compared to second quarter 2019 in constant currency.
Paid quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per share in second quarter and Board of Directors recently authorized a 50% increase in the quarterly cash dividend to $0.24 per share beginning with the dividend expected to be declared in third quarter 2021.
Company provides full-year 2021 outlook.
“With continued increasing demand from our leisure and everyday business travelers, our select-service franchise business model generated another strong quarter of adjusted EBITDA and cash flow, allowing us to increase our dividend by 50%,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer. “Our brands continue to capture market share gains above pre-pandemic levels, while our economy brands here in the U.S. actually exceeded 2019 RevPAR for the quarter. We opened over 70% more rooms than we did last year while growing our development pipeline by 6% vs. prior year, and by 2% sequentially – to over 190,000 rooms. We are extremely proud of all that our team members around the world have achieved, as they remain focused on delivering exceptional value for our owners, guests and shareholders.”
Fee-related and other revenues increased 67% to $321 million, compared to $192 million in the second quarter of 2020 primarily reflecting the ongoing recovery in travel demand and its impact on global RevPAR, which has now recovered to 83% of 2019 levels, including domestic RevPAR at 95% of 2019 levels.
The Company generated net income of $68 million, or $0.73 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $174 million, or $1.86 loss per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2020. The increase of $242 million, or $2.59 per diluted share, reflects: the ongoing recovery in travel demand; a $10 million, or $0.11 per diluted share, after-tax benefit from the marketing fund related to timing; and the absence of $176 million, or $1.89 per diluted share, after-tax of special-item charges incurred during second quarter 2020. These results were partially offset by a $14 million, or $0.15 per diluted share, after-tax impact in 2021 related to the early extinguishment of the Company’s 5.375% senior unsecured notes.
The following discussion of second 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
During the first half of 2021, the Company’s global system grew 30 basis points primarily reflecting continued growth in the Company’s direct-franchising business in China. This was partially offset by the anticipated decline in domestic system size as conversion and new construction activities continue to ramp-up following the pandemic and recent supply chain delays. Year-to-date deletions ran 27% below 2019 levels putting the Company solidly on track with its goal of achieving a 95% retention rate for the full year 2021.
RevPAR
Global and international RevPAR began to lap the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in January 2021, while the U.S. began to lap its onset in March 2021. As such, comparisons to 2019 (on a two-year, constant currency basis) are more meaningful when evaluating trends. On this basis, global RevPAR declined 17% reflecting a 5% decline in the U.S. and a 44% decline internationally. The 5% decline in the U.S. represents continued sequential improvement compared to a decline of 25% in the first quarter of 2021. Importantly, RevPAR for the Company’s economy brands exceeded 2019 levels by 4% in the second quarter. The 44% international decline primarily represents a 68% decline in the Company’s EMEA region and a 7% decline in China.
Business Segment Results
Hotel Franchising revenues increased 55% year-over-year to $283 million, primarily reflecting the global RevPAR increase. Adjusted EBITDA increased 93% to $166 million as the growth in revenues and the timing benefit from the marketing fund was partially offset by higher volume-related expenses.
Hotel Management revenues increased 62% year-over-year to $123 million, reflecting a $19 million increase in cost-reimbursement revenues, which have no impact on adjusted EBITDA. Absent cost-reimbursements, Hotel Management revenues increased 280% to $38 million, primarily due to the global RevPAR increase, as well as improved performance at the Company’s owned hotels and incremental management contract termination fees resulting from the sale of CorePoint Lodging properties. Hotel Management adjusted EBITDA increased $20 million year-over-year reflecting the revenue increases, partially offset by higher volume-related expenses.
During the second quarter 2021, the Company’s marketing fund revenues exceeded expenses by $14 million; while in second quarter 2020, the Company’s marketing fund expenses exceeded revenues by $3 million. While the Company does not expect the marketing fund to have a significant impact on full year 2021 adjusted EBITDA, there may continue to be timing differences in quarterly comparisons.
Development The Company awarded 154 new contracts this quarter compared to 116 in second quarter 2020 and 173 in second quarter 2019. On June 30, 2021, the Company’s global development pipeline consisted of over 1,400 hotels and over 190,000 rooms. The pipeline grew 580 basis points year-over-year and 170 basis points sequentially – including 70 basis points domestically and 230 basis points internationally. Approximately 64% of the Company’s development pipeline is international and 74% is new construction, of which approximately 34% has broken ground.
Cash and Liquidity The Company generated $116 million of net cash provided by operating activities in the second quarter of 2021 compared to net cash used in operating activities of $57 million in second quarter 2020. Free cash flow increased $172 million year-over-year as the Company generated free cash flow of $104 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to using $68 million in the second quarter 2020 (which included $33 million of special-item cash outlays).
At June 30, 2021, the Company had $103 million of cash on its balance sheet and approximately $840 million in total liquidity.
Dividends The Company paid common stock dividends of $15 million, or $0.16 per share, in the second quarter of 2021.
The Company’s Board of Directors authorized a 50% increase in the quarterly cash dividend to $0.24 per share from $0.16 per share, beginning with the dividend that is expected to be declared in third quarter 2021.
2021 Outlook The Company provided the following outlook for full-year 2021:
Fee-related and other revenues of $1.16 billion to $1.19 billion.
Adjusted net income of $244 million to $254 million.
Adjusted EBITDA of $525 million to $535 million.
Adjusted diluted EPS of $2.60 to $2.70, based on an adjusted diluted share count of 94.0 million that excludes any future share repurchases.
Rooms growth of 1% to 2%.
A RevPAR increase of approximately 40% versus 2020, or a decline of approximately 16% compared to 2019.
Free cash conversion from Adjusted EBITDA of approximately 55%.
More detailed projections are available in Table 8 of this press release. Outlook assumes continued recovery in travel demand in the second half of 2021. 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, July 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 877 876-9173 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 July 29, 2021. A telephone replay will be available for approximately ten days beginning at noon ET on July 29, 2021 at 800 757-4761.
Presentation of Financial Information Financial information discussed in this press release includes non-GAAP measures, which include or exclude certain items. These non-GAAP measures differ from reported GAAP results and are intended to illustrate what management believes are relevant period-over-period comparisons and are helpful to investors as an additional tool for further understanding and assessing the Company’s ongoing operating performance. The Company uses these measures internally to assess its operating performance, both absolutely and in comparison to other companies, and to make day to day operating decisions, including in the evaluation of selected compensation decisions. Exclusion of items in the Company’s non-GAAP presentation should not be considered an inference that these items are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring. Full reconciliations of GAAP results to the comparable non-GAAP measures for the reported periods appear in the financial tables section of this press release.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 798,000 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 21 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 89 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.
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (June 2, 2021) – Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with over 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries, today unveiled its 21st brand, Registry Collection HotelsSM, adding a luxury offering to the upper end of the Company’s growing brand portfolio while further advancing its mission to make hotel travel possible for all.
The launch of Registry Collection Hotels comes at a time when a growing number of independent luxury hotel owners are seeking out proven and established partners to help them recover from the challenges of the global pandemic. Registry Collection Hotels allows these owners to maintain their independent spirit and brand individuality while tapping into the global scale of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts along with its award-winning Wyndham Rewards® loyalty program, helping them to drive more direct bookings at a lower cost of distribution.
“As the hospitality industry continues to rebound, independent luxury hotel owners around the world have approached our development teams seeking sales, marketing and reservations support under a proven and established luxury brand,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “The creation of Registry Collection Hotels was a natural fit, given Registry’s growing global recognition as the world’s largest luxury exchange program with over 200 high-end luxury fractional resorts and the continued successful management of that program by our partner Travel + Leisure Co. (formerly Wyndham Destinations). Registry Collection Hotels now fill an important space at the upper end of the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts portfolio, allowing us to very selectively provide support to independent hoteliers around the globe who meet the highest standards of luxury service and accommodations.”
Individuality, Elevated Handpicked to deliver incredible experiences in spectacular destinations, the hallmark of Registry Collection Hotels is the allure of their unmistakable individuality, elevated by thoughtful design and world-class service. From brilliant architectural details paired with serene backdrops to dream-worthy locations, every stay with Registry Collection Hotels is meant to be as unique and indulgent as the hotels themselves.
“We are truly excited about the renewed potential of the global travel, leisure and lifestyle industry, as the world rejoices and reunites after more than a year of lockdowns and restrictions,” said Michael Brown, CEO, Travel + Leisure Co. “Experts and travelers are looking forward to exploring again for curated and exclusive experiences around the world. Launch of Registry Collection Hotels is a natural evolution for Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, building on the brand’s iconic heritage and global network. As Travel + Leisure Co., the world’s leading membership and leisure travel company, with nearly 20 travel brands – including The Registry Collection – we are looking forward to designing a new future for the global leisure industry.”
A White Sand Debut in the Mexican Caribbean Registry Collection Hotels debuts today with the brand’s flagship resort, the exclusive 144-room, all-suite, Grand Residences Riviera Cancun. Nestled on a breathtaking white sand beach just moments from the peaceful fishing village of Puerto Morelos, the secluded resort features spacious and inviting Hacienda-style accommodations, BVLGARI® bath products and exceptional amenities such as an oceanfront infinity pool, full-service spa, state of the art-gym, kids club and three gourmet restaurants. The resort is owned and managed by affiliates of the Royal Resorts® group of companies.
Added Ballotti, “Grand Residences Riviera Cancun is a spectacular resort situated in a pristine spot on one of Mexico’s most desirable beaches. Beloved by guests the world over for its incredible location, postcard views, and world-class service, we couldn’t be more excited to be launching Registry Collection Hotels with one of the region’s premier developers and a long-time customer of Travel + Leisure Co., Dr. Kemil A. Rizk.”
“From day one, the team at Wyndham has been holistically focused on the needs of our resort, working closely with our team as we collaboratively develop our strategy to announce our flagship affiliation,” said Dr. Rizk, president and CEO, Royal Resorts®. “What we value about Wyndham, in addition to their tremendous scale and distribution, is their appreciation for what makes Grand Residences Riviera Cancun unique and their passion for ensuring our individuality is never compromised. The highly esteemed reputation of Wyndham makes us proud to be marking this milestone with them and we look forward to continuing to develop our brand alliance.”
Guests of Grand Residences Riviera Cancun enjoy complimentary private premium airport transportation and can partake in a wide variety of on- and off-site activities, including cooking and mixology classes, yoga, snorkeling, bike tours, fishing charters, catamaran cruises and more. The hotel is available for booking starting today at www.registrycollectionhotels.com.
Unlocking The Power of Wyndham Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has a proven track record of catering to the needs of independent hoteliers, most recently evidenced by the successful launch and robust continued growth of its Trademark Collection® by Wyndham brand. First launched in the summer of 2017, the brand, known for its distinct collection of independent upper midscale and upscale hotels, has since grown its footprint by nearly 75% to now more than 110 hotels across a portfolio spanning North America, Europe, Australia and the Caribbean.
Through Registry Collection Hotels, independent luxury hoteliers are now able to maintain their hotel’s unique individuality while benefiting from the power of scale that comes with being part of the world’s largest hotel company. Owners receive access to an experienced team of hospitality professionals, as well as an in-depth array of services including strategic sourcing, global sales, revenue management, marketing and distribution, operations support and best-in-class training.
Aspirational Stays through Wyndham Rewards Registry Collection Hotels is a part of Wyndham Rewards, Wyndham’s award-winning guest loyalty program, which for the last three years has been named the number one hotel rewards program by readers of USA Today. With aspirational stay opportunities in some of the world’s most desirable destinations, members can earn and redeem points on qualified stays across 21 distinct brands while enjoying a host of perks available exclusively through the program’s various member levels. Wyndham Rewards has 87 million enrolled members around the world and is consistently recognized for its overall simplicity, rich redemption portfolio and generous rewards.
To download photos associated with the above release, please click here.
About Grand Residences Riviera Cancun An affiliate of Registry Collection HotelsSM, the 144-all-suite Grand Residences Riviera Cancun debuted on December 7, 2013. Situated in a private enclave between scenic Riviera Maya and bustling Cancun, this exclusive hideaway is ideally located between the world’s second largest barrier reef and a tranquil nature preserve. This five-star resort sets a new standard in luxury beachfront living: sprawling suites designed as private residences; gourmet dining; a world-class spa and salon; personalized beach and pool service; and much more. The ideal spot for outdoor adventurers, Grand Residences provides guests with experiences of a lifetime such as snorkeling along the world’s longest underground rivers, exploring the historical treasures of ancient Mayan ruins, or simply unwinding on miles of white-sand beaches. For shopping and nightlife, tropical beach hotspot Cancun is only eleven miles away. Grand Residences is owned and managed by affiliates of the Royal Resorts® group of companies, a pioneer in the Mexican Caribbean tourism industry with family-friendly beachfront resorts in Cancun, Puerto Morelos and Riviera Maya. For more information or reservations, call 1.855.381.4340 or visit www.grandresidencesrivieracancun.com.
About Registry Collection Hotels Get lost in your travels and let Registry Collection HotelsSM meet you there. With thoughtful design, brilliant service and unsurpassed attention to detail, our handpicked hotels and resorts deliver incredible experiences in spectacular destinations around the world. Book your next stay at www.registrycollectionhotels.com or visit www.wyndhamdevelopment.com to learn more about how we’re elevating individuality for independent-minded luxury hotel owners and developers around the world. Registry Collection Hotels are affiliated with but separate from The Registry Collection, the world’s largest luxury exchange program.
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 21 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.
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
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.
Click Here to Close Modal
Contact Us
We value your interest in Wyndham & Resorts and welcome your comments and questions.