A national Market Metrix
consumer survey has ranked Cendant Hotel Group’s Wingate Inn chain top in
the lodging industry for guest satisfaction. In announcing the results of its fourth-quarter 2004 Market Metrix
Hospitality Index, the San Rafael, Calif.-based research firm said this is
the first time that a midscale, without-food-and-beverage segment chain
has been ranked top in the survey’s hotels category.

The survey, based on responses from 35,000 consumer interviews and reviews
of 133 lodging brands, concluded that the Wingate Inn brand has “dazzled
its guests and created a devoted following.”

Consumers told Market Metrix that the Wingate Inn chain provides
“amenities comparable to a five-star hotel”, “awesome telecommunications”,
“oversized rooms” and “a free breakfast that is out of this world.”

Guests also complimented Wingate Inn hotel staff, saying they “smile, call
you by name, and ask if there is anything you need.” According to the
survey, Wingate Inn hotels provide “superior customer service unmatched in
the hospitality industry.”

Keith Pierce, Wingate Inns International president, said the ranking
“demonstrates the brand’s guest-focused strategy and commitment by Wingate
Inn owners and operators to deliver outstanding quality and exceed guest
expectations by providing the services and amenities they want at no extra
charge.”

The brand’s “guest-friendly pricing” is designed to attract both
value-conscious business and leisure travelers, said Pierce. “By providing
key amenities without nickel and diming our customers, we have created a
unique product with a compelling value proposition that appeals equally to
guests and hotel developers.”

As part of its value proposition, the Wingate brand’s all-inclusive rates
provide guests with free high-speed Internet access, local calls,
long-distance access, deluxe continental breakfast, USA TODAY newspaper in
the United States on weekdays, faxes, photocopies and use of a 24-hour
business center and fitness room with whirlpool. Guest satisfaction is
backed by a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

With 138 hotels currently open, the Wingate Inn brand was ranked above
hotel companies including Walt Disney World Resorts and Drury Inns.

Pierce congratulated Wingate Inn owners, managers and employees “on this
proud achievement.”
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