Worldwide lodging franchisor Choice Hotels International (NYSE:CHH) has entered into an agreement with Safety NetAccess (SNA), nationwide provider of high speed Internet access to the hospitality industry. As per the agreement, SNA becomes an endorsed vendor to Choice`s 3,300 domestic Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Clarion, Quality, Econo Lodge, Sleep Inn, Rodeway Inn and MainStay Suites franchisees.

Last week, Choice announced a similar agreement with Viator Networks.

“SNA brings to our franchisees a high speed Internet access option that is reliable, functional and affordable,” said Daniel Rothfeld, senior vice president, partner services. “Through our relationships with SNA and Viator Networks, we`re offering a choice of solutions, which between them are almost certain to fit the specific needs—and budgets - of our franchisees.”

According to Rothfeld, SNA was selected based on its ability to provide comprehensive solutions, including: Hardware and software from leaders in the technology industry *
Customized, turnkey programs to fit each property`s specific needs * Proven track record of installations * Plug and play usage * Purchase or leasing options * Straightforward installations, including use of existing wiring and connectivity when possible * Low cost * Franchisee ownership of equipment * Broadband/connectivity to property

Additionally, said Rothfeld, the SNA solution can be financed through minimal charge to guests - or through no guest charges at all, with franchisees absorbing the nominal costs. And SNA offers training and 24/7 technical support for both guest users and franchisees, at varying fees.

“SNA enables franchisees to determine, based on their market conditions, whether to make high speed Internet access a free guest amenity or available at a low per-day cost,” said Rothfeld.

Said Ronald C. High, Safety NetAccess managing principal, “We couldn`t be more delighted that Choice has chosen Safety NetAccess to provide in-room high speed Internet access to its franchisees.”

“Our goal is to furnish Choice`s franchisees with all of the necessary technical capability and top-of-the-line equipment to give them the leading edge in their markets,” said Sean T. Gorman, Safety NetAccess managing principal.

SNA`s solution is currently in beta test at Choice properties and will be introduced to franchisees at the company`s annual convention, Atlanta, May 8-10. SNA will be available to Choice franchisees via ChoiceBuys.com, the company`s proprietary, award-winning e-procurement site, as well as by calling 1-888-797-7911.

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