NORTH
BETHESDA, Md., Nov. 18,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Choice Hotels International,
Inc. (NYSE: CHH) today announced two new contracts as part of its
Supporting Ownership Access and Representation (SOAR) program,
which aims to help empower and support hotel ownership for
underrepresented entrepreneurs. The new contracts – a WoodSpring
Suites in Truth or Consequences, New
Mexico, and a Rodeway Inn in Effingham, Illinois – are part of the 17 SOAR
contracts signed year-to-date. During the first 15 years of the
SOAR program, Choice averaged 1 contract per month and has
increased that to an average of 2 per month in the last five
years.
"Our latest SOAR contracts with veteran and Latino hotel owners
in New Mexico and Illinois reflect Choice's unwavering
commitment to fostering diversity in hotel ownership and bringing
new, diverse voices into the industry," said John Lancaster, vice president of franchise
development and strategic programs at Choice Hotels International.
"By providing them unparalleled support and training, Choice helps
them every step of the way to ensure they SOAR in their hotel
ownership journey."
Walter Barela and Brain Resendez of Peak Hospitality, a hotel
acquisition and asset management firm, executed a contract to open
a WoodSpring Suites in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. The 82-room hotel is slated to
begin construction next year and will cater to the area's
wellness-focused and adventure-seeking visitors drawn by
attractions like natural hot springs and Spaceport America. Choice
is a leader in extended stay, recently opening its 500th property
in the category. Extended stay continues to be one of the hottest
segments in the hospitality industry with demand continuing to
exceed supply.
Ben Rohlfing, Amanda Rohlfing, and Bob
Schultz executed a conversion contract for Rodeway Inn
Effingham in Illinois. Mr.
Rohlfing is a former Navy Electrician's Mate Nuclear, and Ms.
Rohlfing is a former Army MP. The 49-room Rodeway Inn opened in
October and aims to offer affordable lodging for visitors to
Effingham's local attractions,
including Lake Sara and the Effingham Performance Center. The hotel
is located at 1400 Thelma Keller Dr, Effingham, IL 62401.
"Choice Hotels and the SOAR program was there to help direct me
with all the things I needed to know to be a successful hotel
owner," said Ben Rohlfing.
The SOAR program is part of Choice's longstanding commitment to
support underrepresented entrepreneurs in reaching their goal of
making small business ownership a reality. Choice Hotels is the
first hospitality company to have a dedicated team solely focused
on extending the opportunity of hotel ownership to underrepresented
populations. Since its inception more than 20 years ago, Choice has
awarded and offered financial support for 387 franchise agreements
for veterans and underrepresented entrepreneurs under the program.
For more information on the SOAR program and Choice Hotels'
ongoing commitment to empowering underrepresented hotel owners,
please visit Choice Hotels SOAR Program.
About Choice Hotels®
Choice Hotels
International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest lodging
franchisors in the world. The one to watch in upscale and a leader
in midscale and extended stay, Choice® has over 7,500 hotels,
representing nearly 635,000 rooms, in 45 countries and territories.
A diverse portfolio of 22 brands that range from full-service upper
upscale properties to midscale, extended stay and economy enables
Choice® to meet travelers' needs in more places and for more
occasions while driving more value for franchise owners and
shareholders. The award-winning Choice Privileges® rewards program
and co-brand credit card options provide members with a fast and
easy way to earn reward nights and personalized perks. For more
information, visit www.choicehotels.com.
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SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.