Carlson Hotels today announced at its Global Business Conference that Country Inns & Suites By Carlson(SM), which offers caring, comfortable hospitality with a touch of home, has achieved the 500 hotel mark with its soon to open property in College Station, Texas. Building on this milestone, Carlson’s mid-market brand plans to add another 250 hotels globally by 2015 as part of Carlson’s Ambition 2015 strategy.

“Opening the 500th Country Inns & Suites since the brand’s inception in 1987 represents a remarkable success story for this homegrown brand,” said Steve Mogck, executive vice president and chief operating officer, for Country Inns & Suites By Carlson. “With 80 contracted properties under development, we are well positioned for strategic expansion in key target markets such as Canada, India, Mexico and the U.S. over the next five years.”

By 2011, hotel owners will have invested approximately USD 300 million in product improvements over a five year period. Currently, there are 146 new and recently renovated hotels and 334 others are engaged in the renovation process.

Among the many distinctive product and service innovations presented by Country Inns & Suites, the “Friends Hosting Friends” recognition program has generated tremendous employee engagement scores and high overall guest satisfaction. Other key programs that will roll out in 2010 include upgraded personal care amenities, an enhanced breakfast program and new employee uniforms.

The 64-room Country Inn & Suites College Station features the new interior design package along with a heated outdoor pool, whirlpool and fitness center and meeting space.