The Golden State is opening for Baymont Inns & Suites, and the brand`s California expansion is beginning in Ontario on Oct. 1, 2003.  The middle market hotel chain has made a significant impact throughout the Midwest, Southeast and Southwest, and it now seeks new opportunities in the West.
“We understand the importance of establishing a presence in California,” said Jim Abrahamson, president of Baymont Inns & Suites. “We have chosen to begin that presence in the Gateway to Los Angeles.”
The Ontario property, adjacent to the Ontario Mills Mall, is part of Baymont`s Strategic Market Partnership Development (SMPD) program. Under this program, Baymont enters into master development agreements with local developers to build Baymont Inns & Suites. In turn, Baymont provides half of the equity needed and manages the hotel once it is open.
The four-story Baymont Inn & Suites Ontario will have 105 guestrooms, including 21 suites. It will have one large meeting room, a fitness center and an outdoor swimming pool.
Baymont`s partner is Lewis Wolff, a California developer of high-end resorts.
Partnership Commitment :
Lew Wolff said he decided to do a development in the middle market because of consumer demand for such an option in urban areas.
“I chose Baymont because it`s a product that will succeed here,” Wolff said. “It`s a brand with a strong management team that understands the hotel industry.”
He said ownership by The Marcus Corporation was an important selling point, stating, “Marcus has an impeccable reputation.”
In addition to Ontario, Baymont has targeted several other strategic markets in Southern California. Baymont is seeking locations in San Diego, Orange County, Anaheim, LAX Airport and Pasadena/Arcadia. Baymont is scheduled to open its downtown Chicago hotel, located off the city`s Magnificent Mile, in the fall of 2004.
“Baymont has proven itself to be a strong brand for developers and a popular brand for both business and leisure travelers,” Abrahamson said.
Abrahamson said the SMPD program was initiated because Baymont recognized the need for middle market alternatives in major metropolitan areas.
“We want to increase the number of properties in the Baymont system and we see that goal can be accomplished in metro areas where travelers often desire middle-market accommodations instead of the traditional urban choices,” Abrahamson said.
About Baymont Inns & Suites: Baymont Inns & Suites operates or franchises more than 180 locations in 31 states nationwide and is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS). For more information on The Marcus Corporation, go to www.marcuscorp.com. For more information about Baymont Inns & Suites or to make a reservation, visit www.baymontinns.com or call 1-877-BAYMONT (1-877-229-6668).

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