2nd Quarter 2009 - Issue 7
General News
Meet Ross Hosking—WHG’s New EVP
As Wyndham Hotel Group executive vice president, Global Sales, Ross Hosking oversees all of Wyndham Hotel Group’s revenue producing functions and is responsible for the strategy and development of the company’s global sales department and hotel operations centers.
A lodging industry veteran with more than 28-years of experience, Hosking joined the company in February 2009 after serving Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in White Plains, N.Y., where he was most recently regional vice president of sales and marketing. In that role he was directly responsible for the performance of owned and managed hotels in the Southern United States and Caribbean region, producing more than $2 billion a year in revenue.
Prior to serving as regional vice president, Hosking spent close to two years as regional director of sales and marketing for the Boston region, where he oversaw the operations of 12 hotels, three of which were convention hotels in the city of Boston. During his time in the role, he led the creation of a city wide sales team to support the downtown hotels.
In addition to his corporate experience, Hosking also held several property level positions with Starwood including area director of sales & marketing for the Westin Copley Place Boston, area director of sales and marketing for the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers and director of sales for the Sheraton Washington Hotel. He joined Starwood in 1993.
From 1990 to 1993, Hosking held property level positions for Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, serving most recently as director of sales and marketing for the Hyatt Regency Baltimore, where he oversaw all sales, marketing and revenue management functions for the 500-room convention, business and leisure hotel.
Prior 1990, Hosking held various property level sales and operations positions for Sheraton Hotels in the Washington D.C., Baltimore and Stamford, Conn. areas.
Hosking is a 1981 graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst and holds his bachelor’s degree in hotel, restaurant and travel administration.
He is based in Wyndham Hotel Group’s Parsippany, N.J., offices.
Wyndham Xiamen Hotel Opens
The Wyndham® Xiamen, the first Wyndham brand hotel and the first 5-star hotel in Asia managed by the Wyndham Hotel Group, opened April 22.
The hotel proudly offers 588 luxurious rooms and suites, most of which are embraced by spectacular sea views. The twenty sixth floor Wyndham Club and 130 serviced apartments are fully equipped with the finest personalized services.
Located at the heart of Xiamen's business and shopping district, the Wyndham Xiamen overlooks popular Gulangyu Island and is just 20 minutes from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport, 20 minutes from Xiamen International Conference & Exhibition Center, 10 minutes from the railway station and just five minutes by foot from the ferry terminal. The Business Centre provides state-of-the-art equipment, including four private workstations with internet access to ensure guests’ complete privacy.
Dominique Galperti is the general manager. The 495-associate staff come from 20 provinces of China (out of a total of 34) and speak a total of 19 Chinese dialects/languages and 5 international languages.
The hotel group currently has over 170 properties in China operating under the Ramada®, Super 8®, Howard Johnson® and Wyndham brand names.
Wyndham Hotel Group Goes Mobile with Launch of New Web Sites
Travelers on the go looking to stay at Days Inn®, Ramada®, Super 8®, Howard Johnson®, Travelodge® and Knights Inn® hotels can now search for the nearest location, book or modify reservations and much more, directly from their Internet access enabled mobile devices through recently launched mobile web sites.
Baymont Inn and Suites®, Microtel Inns and Suites®, Hawthorn Suites® and Wingate by Wyndham® brands will launch in the coming weeks.
Wyndham Hotel group is providing mobile websites to address the growing opportunity of mCommerce, which is a new term for “mobile commerce.” According to a JPMorgan and Company study conducted earlier this year, the number of active mobile Internet users is expected to increase by over one-third by 2010, from 76.9 million users in 2009, to 104.6 million users in 2010.
The new sites provide consumers with nearly all of the same content and functionality as the brand’s main web sites but have been optimized for use on over 5,000 mobile devices, including Apple iPhone and Blackberry. Consumers can easily locate the nearest hotel, book, modify or cancel a reservation, download maps, turn-by-turn directions, view property photos and research hotel amenities and brand promotions while traveling.
Access to the sites is available through standard brand Web addresses, such as www.daysinn.com and www.super8.com, which, when entered into a mobile phone’s Internet browser, detect the type of phone being used and adapt to provide the user with the best possible experience.
“We’ve worked hard to develop an interface that is full featured and intuitive, allowing consumers to easily interact with our brands in the way that works best for them,” said Scott Lunsford, Wyndham Hotel Group vice president of eProducts and Internet Solutions. “By supporting such a wide array of devices, we’re ensuring that all users have a great experience regardless of the type of mobile phone they own.”
This service supports the direct booking option which builds upon an existing revenue generating channel, creates new marketing opportunities and provides yet another friendly interface to our consumers.
WHG Promotes Brands as This Year’s TIA POW Wow Chair
Wyndham Hotel Group's Global Sales department promoted the company’s brands May 16-20 at the Travel Industry Association of America's 41th annual International Pow Wow travel trade show in Miami, FL.
Wyndham Hotel Group proudly served as chair of this year’s event as a demonstration of its commitment to better serve travel customers worldwide.
The company’s delegation was led by Ross Hosking, Wyndham Hotel Group executive vice president, global sales and distribution, and included members of the Global Sales team, Wyndham Vacation Ownership staff, Wyndham Hotel Group’s global sales agent for Mexico and Central America and associates from several California properties.
At the show, more than 200 meetings were held with current and potential customers to secure new business at the Wyndham Hotel Group booth.
As Chair of International Pow Wow and the International Pow Wow planning committee, WHG assisted and oversaw development and planning of International Pow Wow. WHG received benefits and sponsorship opportunities that provide unequaled visibility and brand presence over the five days of the show.
Eric Danziger, president and CEO of Wyndham Hotel Group, presented a keynote address on why now is a great time for travelers to come to America and why hospitality industry professionals must strive to “explore new ways to serve, to reinvent our business and rededicate ourselves to go the extra mile for our customers, guests, and colleagues, each and every day.”
Wyndham Hotel Group sponsored a luncheon and provided computer kiosks throughout convention space wrapped with Wyndham Hotel Group logos, providing further exposure for Wyndham Hotel Group’s brands and businesses.
To recognize and thank customers for their business, the team hosted a reception at Mango’s Tropical Café in Miami Beach.
Pow Wow event is billed as the travel industry's premier international marketplace and the largest generator of in-bound United States travel. Click HERE to learn more.
Wyndham Worldwide Listed On FORTUNE Most Admired List
Wyndham Worldwide has again been listed as one of FORTUNE Magazine's Most Admired Companies for 2009.
Wyndham Worldwide ranked second on the Most Admired list in the hotels, casinos and resorts category, and joins 15 other New Jersey-based companies who were also named Most Admired in other categories, including Johnson & Johnson, Prudential Financial, Merck and Honeywell International. "Wyndham Worldwide is honored to join such world renowned and global leaders on the Most Admired list," said Stephen P. Holmes, chairman and chief executive officer. "As a company, we look forward to celebrating many more of these accomplishments as we continue to drive success through exceptional customer service and strong operational and financial performance."
To produce the listings, 15,000 top executives, directors and analysts were asked to rate all FORTUNE 1,000 companies in their own industry on eight criteria. A company's score must rank in the top half of its industry survey to appear in the listing and only the best are listed as a Most Admired Company.
The full list of companies appeared in the Mar. 16, 2009 edition of FORTUNE.
Wyndham Hotels Honored for Green Innovations
Unique “green” programs introduced by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts®, including ecologically–friendly uniforms made with recycled plastics, were recognized in March by Lodging Hospitality magazine with a Chain Leadership Award, which honors the best in innovation, creativity and business–building in the U.S. hotel industry.
The award singled out Wyndham Hotels and Resorts as the leader in the category of Environmental Action. Lodging Hospitality editors annually solicit reader nominations, and then select the “best of the best programs and strategies employed in the previous year.”
Wyndham President Jeff Wagoner thanked Lodging Hospitality for the award, saying, “We are honored to be recognized for programs that demonstrate leadership in the hospitality industry, add value to our properties and underscore operational excellence.”
Fabric for the eco–friendly Wyndham hotel staff uniforms is manufactured using polyester fibers spun from post–consumer products, including recycled plastic beverage bottles, which are woven into very soft fabrics. By using recycled materials, the hotel chain helps to keep plastics out of landfills. Moreover, the uniforms, which do not require professional laundering, minimize the use of chemicals during cleaning and provide a cost savings to hotel operators.
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts is the first national upscale lodging chain to implement the eco–friendly uniform initiative. Cincinnati–based Cintas Corporation was contracted to design and manufacture the uniforms and continue to introduce new eco–friendly fabrics for the Wyndham apparel program.
Click HERE to learn more about Wyndham Green, Wyndham Worldwide's sustainability program.
WHG Attends Tianguis Turistico Tradeshow
Wyndham Hotel Group showcased its brands April 25-29 at the 34th annual Tianguis Turistico travel trade show in Acapulco.
Sponsored by the Mexico Tourism Board, Tianguis Turistico is an important promotional platform for Latin America as it brings buyers and suppliers together for four days of business appointments and parties, as well as distinguished speakers and international press to cover the action.
The show’s Sunday opening was delayed with the cancellation of the opening ceremony's guest speaker, Mexico President Felipe Calderon, who stayed in Mexico City to attend to the swine flu emergency that broke out only days before. The official start of the event occurred Monday morning when thousands of business travel professionals gathered to sign deals that would determine their direction and success for this coming year.
WHG’s booth featured photographs of all our property brands in Latin America—Howard Johnson®, Ramada®, Travelodge®, and Wyndham® Garden Hotels. Attending the event from the Wyndham Hotel Group were Sandy Ramon Tarbet, Sales and Marketing for Latin America and the Caribbean and the Latin America Development team, headed by Marco Roca, with Doug Smith, Armando Tinoco, Javier Sanchez and Louis Alicea. Special guests included our GSA in Mexico, President and CEO Alex Pace, and his sales team members Maria Carmona and Maria Carmen Gonzalez. Also attending were Ana Diaz-Coreas and Armando Diaz Sales for The Grand Mayan resort.
This is the first year where Wyndham invited hotel franchisees to participate in negotiations with our buyers. Joining the Ramada brand was General Manager Julian Fernandez from the Ramada Reforma, Mexico City. Joining Howard Johnson was General Sales Manager Dahyanna Bross from Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel Las Torres, Guadalajara. We also had a visit from a future franchisee, Fernando Cuesta of the prospective Ramada Encore Chihuahua that is scheduled to open July 1, 2009.
Other hotels participated in the booths that were sponsored by their state’s government. WHG was well represented by Damallanty Mendez of Howard Johnson Veracruz, Yolanda Guerrero of Howard Johnson Mazatlan and Perla Gomez and Lizbeth Sierra of Ramada Resort Mazatlan. Ramada Hola Culiacan, one of our newest properties, had its own booth hosted by owner Jesus Mario Hernandez and Blanca Rosa Gonzalez from Sales and Marketing.
We are thankful to those who participated and provided support throughout the event. Although this year's participation was impacted by the swine flu emergency and a brief earthquake, Mexico is a country of survivors and Tianguis closed with a positive vision of the future.
The Litolier Group Launches Ramada Plaza New Delhi
The Litolier Group announced in April that it has ventured into the hotel industry with the launch of the Ramada® Plaza New Delhi.
The Ramada Plaza New Delhi offers 419 luxury guest rooms, suites and service apartments catering to varying needs in an inviting ambience. The lobby showcases a French fresco, Italian antique marble and bronze statutes, classical Italian furniture, and sparkling Austrian/venetian chandeliers. Five high-speed guest elevators add to guest convenience and comfort.
The hotel is centrally located in Lutyens’, Delhi and is surrounded by prominent historical buildings and government offices. Its prime location in the heart of the city has made it a commercial and shopping hub for both domestic and international travelers.
Click HERE to learn more.
Members Only
This Summer Promote Europe
With the ever-strengthening dollar, Europe is more affordable than it has been in a long time. Travel to Europe is on the upswing so now is a great time to learn about the breadth of product that Wyndham Hotel Group (WHG) has “over the pond.” Wyndham has been adding great new destinations and properties to its international portfolio over the past few years.
To date, WHG has over 220 hotels in Europe, with over 120 in the United Kingdom alone1. Eastern Europe is now bursting with tourism and WHG boasts hotels in Romania, Czech Republic, Russia, Hungary, Lithuania, Latvia and others. Promoting European travel—and the Wyndham discount—this summer is a great way to provide your members with a timely benefit. We encourage you to use the following advertorial or tag line in your communication to your members.
Tag line:
Members can save on accommodations in Europe and the U.K. this summer at over 200 Wyndham Hotel Group properties in 16 countries.
Advertorial:
Click HERE 
for more details.
Note to Webmaster: link logo up to the hotel information page on your website.
There’s no time like now to plan your summer travel to Europe and the U.K. The dollar is getting stronger and travel overseas is becoming less expensive. Our hotel partner, Wyndham Hotel Group, offers you savings at over 200 hotels in 16 European countries.
Members can save up to 10% off the “Best Available Rate2” just by using your member discount number. Want to discover the history of unique eastern European cultures in exciting places like Budapest? Wyndham Hotel Group has 4 great hotels to choose from. If you want elegance, choose the Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal Budapest – a Wyndham® Grand Hotel. The 4-star Ramada® Budapest is another great place to stay if you want to be centrally located in this historic city. WHG has exemplary accommodations in majestic cities like St. Petersburg, in the Russian Federation, eight hotels in Romania, three in the Czech Republic, including the Corinthia® Hotel Prague.
If touring the British Isles is more your speed, WHG has over 110 hotels throughout the United Kingdom. So whether you want to roam the Scottish Highlands, golf the grand old courses or whirl around contemporary London, WHG has a wide range of hotel options for you. There is no better time than now to start planning your European vacation and no better way to save than using your member discount to book a Wyndham Hotel Group property. Simply call 877-670-7088 and give agent your discount ID number to book your next European vacation.
© 2009 Wyndham Hotel Group International, Inc. All hotels are independently owned and operated.
1 As of March 31, 2009.
2 “Best Available Rate” is defined as the best, non-qualified, publicly available rate on the Internet for the hotel, date and accommodations requested. The discount for International properties may be less than or equal to 10% of Best Available Rate. Certain restrictions apply. To redeem this offer, click our URL link on [Organization’s website] or call the hotel brand phone number above and give ID at the time of reservation. Offer not valid if hotel is called directly, caller must use toll free numbers listed above. Advance reservations are required. Offer is subject to availability at participating locations and some blackout dates may apply. Offer cannot be combined with any other discounts, offers, or special promotions. Discounts vary by location and time of year. Offer is void where prohibited by law and has no cash value.
New Ad and Flyer Templates Now Available
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With the additions of the Microtel Inns & Suites® and Hawthorn Suites® brands to the Member Benefit program, we have updated our existing flyer and ad templates in incorporate the new brands. If you need an ad template for a directory, newsletter or magazine, or a flyer for an upcoming member show or event, please contact your account director to get the newest collateral.
Brand Spotlight – Super 8
The Super 8® brand has always had a love for freedom and the open road, believing that everyone should be free to get away to a super destination. For people who share this passion, Super 8 hotel’s desire is to make this happen. In 1974, Super 8 hotel began this vision with our first hotel in Aberdeen, South Dakota offering rooms for $8.88 per night, making that part of South Dakota available to anyone on the road in need of a place to stay. It was the original “super” destination.
Now in 2009, the Super 8 brand has made over 2,000 destinations (including over 120 in Canada and close to 100 in China) available for those who choose to travel wisely and who have an unlimited travel spirit. The sign has become a familiar roadside icon, representing the integrity and value at the heart of this 33-year old vision. It's the open road anytime, anywhere.
As a guest at most Super 8® properties, you will enjoy the following amenities and services:
- Free in-room high-speed Internet access
- Free SuperStart® continental breakfast
- Upgraded bath with hair dryer, adjustable shower head, and curved shower rod for more space
- Free coffee in your room, in the lobby, and even while you're on the road!
- Kids 17 and under stay free (in adult family member's room)
- Wyndham Rewards® – Earn 10 points for every dollar you spend!
- Cable or satellite TV with free premium channels
- Guaranteed Best Available Rate on super8.com or your first night's free!
Planning a Move?
Moving? Don’t forget to let us know of your new location when your organization relocates. Also, if there are changes in your phone number, email addresses, or even in who is handling your program, please let us know. WHG is growing and
we want to keep you informed!
Promo Push!
Now’s the time to remind your customers, employees, members of their chance for travel savings by using the discount as they plan their family visits, summer vacations, and group outings.
We can help by supplying the artwork for coupons, flyers, and mailing inserts. Contact your account director to request any of our promotional tools.
Our Featured Hotels
Summer at the Harbour
The Wyndham® Grand London Chelsea Harbour, set in the exclusive Chelsea Harbour area, is London's only 5-star luxury all-suite hotel. From the hotel you’ll have an ideal base from which to explore London to see sites such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Harrods, Piccadilly Circus, Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abby.
Located only 15 minutes away from the city and offering stunning views of the city’s skyline and the River Thames, the hotel features an award-winning restaurant the Aquasia Bar & Restaurant where you can dine al fresco. And, you don’t have to leave your health routine at home as the hotel features a full health club with a heated indoor pool, sun-chairs, steam room, exercise equipment, free weights and a treatment room for those special spa treatments.
Ramada Bradford Bingley
If you are planning on driving in England to see the countryside, how many drives lead to a gothic mansion that would not look out of place on a Hollywood film set? The Ramada® Bradford Bingley, set in private grounds with views over the Aire Valley, has all the conveniences such as non-smoking rooms and satellite TV, but also offers the Arts Bar and Grill, a sports bar, indoor pool, sauna, spa bath, steam room and a health and beauty salon. In addition, there’s free parking a full gym and even an aerobics studio for those who want to keep up their fitness routine while traveling. And, if you love fishing or golfing, you’ve found the right spot since the area has great fishing and is only 2 miles away from a golf club.
Ramada Edinburgh Mount Royal
Headed to Scotland? Edinburgh is the jewel in the Scottish Crown and the entertainment capital of Scotland. The capital is famous for its castle, history, magnificent architecture and of course, a vibrant nightlife. It will be a challenge keeping up the pace with so many options. Our Ramada Edinburgh Mount Royal is well situated and near popular sights. The restaurant, The Princes Dining Room, has a cosmopolitan feel.
Microtel Inns & Suites Is Now Part of the Wyndham Rewards Program
Turn stays at Microtel Inns and Suites® hotels into extraordinary rewards! The Microtel Inns and Suites brand is now part of the Wyndham Rewards® program. Wyndham Rewards is our free travel rewards program where you can earn points redeemable for hundreds of rewards, just for staying at one of our more than 6,000 (This has been changed back to 6,000) locations around the globe. Not a member? Join NOW and start earning points!
Enroll online at www.wyndhamrewards.com.