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Home2 Suites by Hilton, the new mid-tier extended-stay hotel concept targeting savvy and value-wise extended-stay guests, exceeded development expectations with more than 50 signed franchise applications received to date. The pace of receipt averaged an application every three days since the launch of the brand at the end of January.
“Our goal for 2009 was to sign 40 agreements. To have exceeded that number just five months after the launch of the new brand demonstrates that this was the right segment at the right time,” said Bill Duncan, Global Head, Homewood Suites and Home2 Suites Brands. “We consistently hear positive comments about the innovative design, the great fit within the Hilton portfolio of hotels, and the attractive price-point of this product.”
Al Patel, president of Baywood Hotels, submitted the 50th application for Home2 Suites, which will be located near Washington Dulles International Airport. The Dulles location is his sixth Home2 Suites franchise application.
“My company represents several hotel products, and we have seen those within the extended stay category hold their own during this economic time – not dropping in RevPAR like our transient hotels,” said Patel. “Home2 Suites is a new brand with great design that we believe will strike a chord with the corporate rate traveler.”
On average, Home2 Suites will be comprised of 90 percent studios and 10 percent one-bedroom suites, at 323 and 509 square feet, respectively. Public space will account for approximately 4,200 square feet.
Home2 Suites forecasts 100 properties open by year-end 2012, with 60 to 70 per year thereafter. Immediate focus will be on United States development, with expansion into Canada, Mexico and abroad in subsequent years.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
