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Questex Hospitality Names Glenn Haussman Editor-at-Large of Hotel Management

March 2, 2016 4:57 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

New Position Will Focus on Special Reports and Co-hosting Questex Hospitality Investment Conferences and Hosted Buyer HOTEC Events

New York City, New York., Jan. 12, 2016—Officials of Questex Hospitality Group, a division of Questex, LLC, the world’s largest multi-media organization dedicated to travel and lodging, today announced that Glenn Haussman has been named editor-at-large of Hotel Management, the leading provider of hospitality industry news, analysis, trends, finance, business, design and people for hotel-motel management. Haussman will be responsible for providing editorial content and direction for the magazine, as well as serving as a co-host and moderator of the group’s ongoing HOTEC conferences for hoteliers.

“Glenn is one of the most respected names in hospitality journalism, having worked for some of the industry’s most prominent publications,” said David Eisen, Hotel Management’s editor-in-chief. “In addition to starting the world’s first podcast dedicated to the business of hotels, he has consistently been at the forefront of the intersection between journalism and technology. His addition to our team opens an entirely new, invaluable level of insight to our readers.”

Prior to joining Hotel Management, Haussman was editor-in-chief at Hotel Interactive. He has covered all aspects of hospitality, including hotels and resorts, restaurants, casinos and cruise ships. He is sought out by other journalists for his expertise and has been quoted in such leading publications as The New York Times, USA Today, Washington Post, MSNBC.com, CNN.com, Chicago Tribune and many more. Haussman also has served as adjunct professor at New York University, teaching classes in Consumer Behavior at the Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism, and Sports Management. Haussman will continue his wide-ranging interests in the industry, including the launch of an all-new podcast, as well as consulting, public speaking and industry education for companies.

“Glenn’s pedigree in hospitality is top-notch and matched only by his personality, which shines through in both his editorial and his vibrant stage presence,” said Alexi H. Khajavi, Questex senior vice president. “We are confident that his in-depth knowledge, enthusiasm and gravitas will further enable our media and event brands to not just cover the what, but more importantly the why of critical issues within the hospitality industry. Having just celebrated our 140th anniversary in 2015 as the leading hospitality industry publication, we now are relaunching our digital websites in Q1 2016, all of which will keep our readership abreast of the latest trends, strategies and tactics.”

“Hotel Management has been on the forefront of hospitality journalism for my entire nearly 20-year career, and I look forward to adding my skillset to their already impressive team,” Haussman added. “I see this as a partnership between leading hospitality brands. Questex is known for innovation, and I believe our strengths complement one another.”

About Questex Hospitality + Travel

Questex LLC, headquartered in Newton, Massachusetts, with offices worldwide, is the world’s largest multimedia organization dedicated to travel and lodging. Questex drives revenue, productivity and value-creation for these related industries through strategic investment and deal-making forums, powerful lead-generation tools, interactive online business solutions, world-class events and industry-leading publications: Hotel Management, Hotel Design and IHIF Investment News, and their online sites, hotelmanagement.net, hoteldesignmagazine.com, and ihif.hotelmanagement.net.

Questex Hospitality Group, a division of Questex LLC, operates a variety of market-leading events throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific region, including the International Hotel Investment Forum (IHIF) Summit Series: the International Hotel Investment Forum, held annually in Berlin; North America Hotel Investment Conference (NATHIC); Mediterranean Resort & Hotel Real Estate Forum in Madrid (MR&H); Russia & CIS Hotel Investment Conference (RHIC); Turkey & Neighbours Hotel Investment Conference (CATHIC); and Asia Pacific Hotel Investment Conference (APHIC).

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Marshall Hotels & Resorts Appoints Patricia Johnson Director of Sales at HGU New York Hotel

February 29, 2016 7:55 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

SALISBURY, Md., January 11, 2015—Marshall Hotels & Resorts, a leading hotel management and services company that operates properties nationwide, today announced the appointment of Patricia Johnson as director of sales of the 90-room Hotel Grand Union (HGU). Situated in the NoMad District at 34 East 32nd Street, the hotel has completed a $15 million renovation and is scheduled to open early 2016.

With more than a decade in the hospitality industry, Johnson has worked with esteemed hotel brands such as the Sheraton and Marriott. Most recently, she served as regional director of sales and marketing for Interstate Hotels & Resorts in New York City. In that role, she implemented strategic leadership and analysis in a task force capacity, managing The Renwick, The Gregory, The Roosevelt and NoMo hotels while developing new business and outreach. Her experience includes a long line of work with well-regarded names such as Warwick New York Hotel, Highgate and Fitzpatrick Hotel Group. Johnson is a graduate of Florida International University, CMP certified and fluent in English, Spanish and French.

“Patricia’s scope of work in the industry reaches across respected hotel names and diverse markets, giving us a strong leg-up for rapid growth when our hotel re-opens,” said Mike Marshall, president and CEO. “Her level of expertise and strategic leadership, coupled with more than 34 years of Marshall Management’s proven track record, gives us confidence that she is the ideal candidate for the hotel to establish its new image in the most thriving of hotel markets. Boutique hotels are our forte, and we are confident that our role, combined with expert staff, will lead this landmark property to new success.”

Situated a few minutes away from the Empire State Building, the HGU is located in the heart of Manhattan. The property maintains a Beaux-Arts structure and the cozy feel of an NYC apartment while offering an eco-conscious design that resonates with “history, architecture, art and sustainability on a human scale.” The hotel has partnered with Gallery 151 to showcase contemporary art throughout the halls and rooms, all handpicked.

Guest rooms range from standard queen to king suite and include cozy furniture such as hand-woven Turkish rugs, plush velvet headboards and hand crafted wooden cabinetry. Amenities include monogrammed pillows, luxury 400-thread count bedding, bath and beauty products from C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries and complimentary Wi-Fi. iPads will be provided for each room by the tech concierge service along with wireless charging through a partnership with Fli Charge, a company that focuses on wire-free power. Located on each side of the main floor is a restaurant and bar with windows facing 32nd street. The 1905 lounge serves as the ideal venue for meetings and events, live entertainment, recording artist sessions, Q&A series with artists and private film screenings, among other things.

About Marshall Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

Salisbury, Md.-based Marshall Hotels & Resorts, Inc. has special expertise operating three- and four-star branded hotels and resorts, averaging 100 to 500 rooms, in urban and central business districts, as well as suburban/drive-to and resort locations. In addition, the company has a proven track record managing independent resort and unique urban properties. Marshall Hotels & Resorts has managed a wide array of leading hotel brands, including those under the Hilton, Marriott, Starwood, InterContinental Hotel Group, Hyatt, Carlson, Choice, Best Western and Wyndham flags. Additional information may be found at the company’s Web site: www.marshallhotels.com

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PM Hospitality Strategies, Inc. Announces the Opening of Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Washington, D.C.-Navy Yard

February 29, 2016 4:38 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

WASHINGTON, Dec 29, 2015 — Officials of PM Hospitality Strategies, Inc. (PMHS), a leading, national hotel management company, today announced the opening of the 168-room Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Washington, D.C.-Navy Yard. Located at 1265 First Street SE, in the heart of our nation’s capital, the hotel is well positioned near iconic monuments, national parks and one block from the metro station where access to Capitol Hill, The White House and the National Mall areas are readily available.

“In addition to our five, recently announced management agreements throughout Pennsylvania, the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Washington, D.C.-Navy Yard keeps us on pace to have one of our most active years in our history,” said Joseph Bojanowski, president of PMHS. “Washington, D.C., which receives approximately $1.9 billion from tourists on lodging annually, also happens to be our headquarter location, making this a particularly gratifying addition to our growing portfolio of third-party management contracts with reputable owners of well recognized and respected hotel flags.”

The hotel features the Top of the Yard rooftop lounge, overlooking the cityscape, the Anacostia Riverfront and Nationals Park. It boasts amenity rich, spacious one-room studio suites and guest rooms featuring a workstation, a Hampton bed® and a 48-inch flat-screen TV. Each new Hampton includes the brand’s new “The Perfect Mix Lobby,” designed as a room extension with various seating and lighting options..

Complimentary breakfast is offered daily, as well as an alternative On the Run® Breakfast Bag Monday through Friday and a 24-hour convenience store. The hotel also offers a free fitness and business center, as well as 2,000 sq. ft. of meeting space for business and social events.

About PMHS

PMHS is an award-winning, independent hotel management company, operating full-service and select-service hotels in the Hilton, Starwood, Marriott, and Choice families of brands. The company’s expertise covers all aspect of hotel operations, including development, technical consulting, marketing, accounting, pre-opening services and on-going management. PMHS currently manages over 35 hotel and development projects, comprised of more than 5,800 rooms, throughout the United States. Based in Washington, D.C., PMHS has participated in the development and acquisition/renovation of dozens of hotels with a market capitalization in excess of $1 billion. PMHS is an approved management company for all leading hotel brands. Additional information about the company may be found at www.pmhs.com.

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Gencom Acquires the 114-Room Ames Boston Hotel.

December 21, 2015 12:47 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

Historic Hotel to Undergo Multi-Million Renovation to Upgrade to Latest Standards and Amenities

BOSTON, (Dec. 21, 2015) – -Representatives of Gencom, one of North America’s leading luxury hospitality and residential / mixed-use real estate investment and development firms, today announced that, through its new partnership with Gemstone Hotels and Resorts, it has acquired the 114-room Ames Boston Hotel in the heart of downtown Boston.  The property will be operated by Gemstone Hotels & Resorts, a full-service hotel management company that specializes in operating luxury and upscale urban hotels and resorts.  Gencom and Gemstone will immediately undertake and jointly oversee a multi-million dollar renovation to re-position and reinvigorate the hotel.  RobertDouglas was the exclusive advisor to the seller, a private investment group, in the sale.

“The Ames Boston Hotel is an irreplaceable asset with a prime location in the heart of Boston,” said Alessandro Colantonio, senior vice president of acquisitions at Gencom.  “We continue to have a healthy appetite for quality assets, located in major urban areas with high barriers to entry and with high return on investment potential.  Following the completion of the renovation and the implementation of Gemstone’s proprietary marketing and operations programs, the hotel will be well positioned to become the leading destination for upscale, discerning travelers to this market.”

The renovation will transform the hotel from top to bottom to bring business and leisure travelers some of the finest accommodations Boston has to offer.  Guest rooms will receive significant enhancements, including new case goods, soft goods and some unique technology.   The ground floor will see significant changes which will highlight the property’s rich history and unique location in the heart of Boston.  Additionally, the hotel’s existing meeting space will be expanded and substantially modernized. 

Considered to be Boston’s first skyscraper, the Ames Boston Hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the second tallest masonry load bearing wall structure in the world. Originally constructed in 1893, the hotel enjoys a prime location within the Government Center, within walking distance to the financial district and next to the renowned Faneuil Hall Marketplace. 

“We have a long history of operating hotels in Boston and throughout New England,” said Thomas Prins, Gemstone’s principal.  “This property, along with the Copley Square Hotel we currently manage, will give us significant economies of scale and ability to capitalize on all the Boston hospitality marketplace offers.”

“The Boston hotel economy is quite vibrant and continues to expand,” said Jeff McIntyre, Gemstone’s principal.  “We will bring to bear some unique approaches to create one of a kind guest experiences—taking advantage of everything this hotel and its special location have to offer.  The Ames is truly a one-of-a-kind hotel, and we intend to clearly distinguish it in a marketplace known for its iconic hotels and hospitality.” 

About Gencom

Gencom was founded in 1987 by Mr. Karim Alibhai and is one of North America’s leading hospitality and residential-mixed use real estate investment and development firms, offering expertise in many distinct areas of the industry including finance and capital markets, asset management, design and development, M&A and equity management and residential sales & marketing. Since its inception, Gencom has focused on executing turnaround and repositioning strategies that involved portfolio and single asset transactions within a variety of hospitality segments including luxury, limited-service and full-service assets. Gencom companies’ successful track record has led to significant ventures with prominent institutional investors, family offices and strategic partners both in the Unites States and internationally. Gencom is based in Coral Gables, Florida with representative offices in Houston, Texas.

About Gemstone Hotels & Resorts LLC

Headquartered in Park City, Utah, with offices in Stamford, Connecticut, Gemstone is a full-service management company that specializes in luxury and upscale hotels and complex resorts.    Gemstone currently manages 19 hotels and resorts throughout the United States.  For more information about Gemstone, please visit www.gemstoneresorts.com.

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PM Hospitality Strategies, Inc. Completes Renovation of Embassy Suites

December 16, 2015 12:48 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

NEWARK, Del., December 16, 2015—Officials of PM Hospitality Strategies, Inc. (PMHS), a leading, national hotel management company, today announced that the Embassy Suites by Hilton Newark Wilmington South has completed its multi-million dollar renovation ahead of schedule. The renovation encompassed all aspects of the hotel, returning it to “like-new” status.

“With the industry experiencing unprecedented demand growth, it is vital for existing hotels to continually refresh and update their offerings to meet the requests of today’s business and leisure travelers,” said Joseph Bojanowski, president of PMHS, operators of the hotel. “Our hotel is going through its most demanding makeover since its inception in 1999. The transformation to a more contemporary design with upgraded amenities, coupled with our proprietary marketing and management systems, has optimized our competitive advantage.”

The hotel recently underwent a complete makeover of its meeting and banquet spaces, as well as the hotel’s corridors and other public spaces. The hotel’s154 guest suites received all new amenities, beds, bedding, furniture, and artwork. The spacious two-room suites with separate living and sleeping areas are ideal for extended stays offers additional space with a sleeper sofa, two TVs, a refrigerator, microwave and internet access for families to utilize. For business travelers, the hotel now provides an expanded executive suite, providing a higher level of comfort and extra workspace. The décor consists of a contemporary finish, providing an innovative and comfortable lodging experience.

“The hotel’s renovations have added market share value and market leadership, reinforcing the level of standing of our third-party hotel management portfolio,” added Bojanowski. “We are confident that the new and improved suites will add significant profit to the property.”

Located at 654 South College Avenue in Newark, Del., in the Brandywine Valley, the hotel resides among country mansions and scenic nature views. The University of Delaware is adjacent to the property and provides opportunities to attend sporting activities. Nearby attractions include the Winterthur Museum, the Delaware Art Museum, showcasing pieces from the British Pre-Raphaelites, and the historic district of New Castle. Guests can shop at the Christiana Mall or dine at the hotel’s feature restaurant, TGI Fridays, tax free.

Amenities include complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, fitness center, meeting rooms and ballrooms, as well as a complimentary “Evening Reception” for cold drinks and snacks. The hotel received the 2014 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award.

About PMHS

PMHS is an award-winning, independent hotel management company, operating full-service and select-service hotels in the Hilton, Starwood, Marriott, and Choice families of brands. The company’s expertise covers all aspect of hotel operations, including development, technical consulting, marketing, accounting, pre-opening services and on-going management.  PMHS currently manages over 35 hotel and development projects, comprised of more than 5,800 rooms, throughout the United States.  Based in Washington, D.C., PMHS has participated in the development and acquisition/renovation of dozens of hotels with a market capitalization in excess of $1 billion.  PMHS is an approved management company for all leading hotel brands.  Additional information about the company may be found at www.pmhs.com

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Chatham Lodging Announces Monthly Dividend

December 10, 2015 12:49 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

PALM BEACH, Fla., December 10, 2015—Chatham Lodging Trust (NYSE: CLDT), a hotel real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on investing in upscale extended-stay hotels and premium branded select-service hotels, today announced that its board of trustees has declared a monthly common share dividend of $0.10 for December 2015.  The common dividend is payable January 29, 2016, to shareholders of record on December 31, 2015.

About Chatham Lodging Trust

Chatham Lodging Trust is a self-advised, publicly-traded real estate investment trust focused primarily on investing in upscale extended-stay hotels and premium-branded, select-service hotels. The company owns interests in 134 hotels totaling 18,418 rooms/suites, comprised of 38 properties it wholly owns with an aggregate of 5,675 rooms/suites in 15 states and the District of Columbia and a minority investment in three joint ventures that own 96 hotels with an aggregate of 12,743 rooms/suites. Additional information about Chatham may be found at chathamlodgingtrust.com.

This press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 about Chatham Lodging Trust, including those statements regarding acquisitions, capital expenditures, future operating results and the timing and composition of revenues, among others, and statements containing words such as “expects,” “believes” or “will,” which indicate that those statements are forward-looking.  Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release are forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results or performance to differ materially from those discussed in such statements.  Additional risks are discussed in the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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Hospitality Ventures Management Group

December 8, 2015 12:49 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

ATLANTA, Ga., December 8, 2015 – Hospitality Ventures Management Group (HVMG), an Atlanta-based, private hotel management company, today revealed that it has more than $200 million in its current development and construction pipeline.  The assignments are a mixture of new build and renovation projects.

“With the hotel industry enjoying some of its highest periods of occupancy and ever increasing ADR, savvy hoteliers are getting ahead of the game by either building new product or improving what already is in the portfolio to meet the demands of today’s travelers,” said Robert S. Cole, HVMG president and CEO.  “The leading industry experts continue to predict robust industry growth in the near term.  We are positioning our strategy and portfolio to maximize this growth.”

HVMG has the following projects in its pipeline:

  1. SpringHill Suites Orange Beach—Located at the Wharf, an 80,000 square foot, mixed-use entertainment destination in Orange Beach, Ala., the new build hotel began construction in June 2015, with the grand opening scheduled for the spring 2016.
  2. Hilton Houston Southwest—HVMG is overseeing an extensive renovation of the hotel, including guest rooms, public space and exterior upgrades.  As part of the value-add repositioning strategy, HVMG has developed a new concept for the lobby bar and restaurant called “Veranda,” offering a creative menu of classic American cuisine and a cocktail program featuring fresh and natural ingredients.    
  3. Embassy Suites Atlanta Galleria— Situated near the new home of the Atlanta Braves, the hotel has just embarked on a major renovation that will encompass a complete redesign of all guest rooms, the Atrium, meeting space and the building’s exterior.  The hotel also will introduce Hilton’s new food and beverage program, E’terie.  The project is expected to be finished by the spring of 2016.
  4. Marriott Greensboro–Acquired by HVMG in December 2014, the 300-room, full-service hotel located at the Piedmont Triad International Airport will receive extensive guest room and exterior improvements, featuring a state-of-the-art design of the new Marriott guest room.  Renovations have just started and will conclude in the summer of 2016.
  5. Hotel Indigo Downtown Denver (LoDo)—Currently under construction, the 188-room hotel is expected to open in Dec. 2016.  Located within Union Tower West, a 200,000 square foot mixed-use, office/retail space development, the hotel is adjacent to Denver Union Station.  Upon opening, the hotel will feature approximately 1,950 square feet of meeting space, a fitness center, business center, bar and restaurant.
  6. Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown—With a planned opening date of Dec. 14th, 2015, the under construction hotel will welcome guests with 206 rooms, high end specialty bar & restaurant and approximately 5,000 square feet of meeting space. 
  7. O4W boutique hotel project—The 140-room, high-end hotel is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2018 in the thriving Old Fourth Ward district of Atlanta.  Located at the intersection of Irwin Street and Auburn Avenue, the Atlanta BeltLine’s first hotel will have direct access to the Eastside Trail and be within walking distance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic Site, Krog Street Market and the Inman Quarter.

In addition to the major projects noted above, HVMG has earmarked approximately $20 million for significant improvements to nine other assets in its portfolio.   

About Hospitality Ventures Management Group

Hospitality Ventures Management Group is a privately owned, fully-integrated hotel investment and management group that specializes in turning around and repositioning underperforming hotels, as well as maximizing the performance of stabilized hotels. It currently operates 31 hotels in 15 states totaling 6,448 guest rooms. HVMG operates independent and boutique hotels and resorts, as well as full-service, select-service and extended-stay hotels under the Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, Starwood, and IHG brands. Visit www.hvmg.com for more information.

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