From Savannah to Phoenix, from Boise to Somerset, NJ, hotel developers are recognizing the significant profit potential represented by Cambria Suites, the new upscale, select-service all-suites hotel brand franchised by Choice Hotels International.“Since its January launch, Cambria Suites has generated a tremendous amount of interest throughout the hotel development community,” said David Pepper, senior vice president, Franchise Development for Choice Hotels. “To date, we have four executed contracts and more than two dozen in our active pipeline. Clearly, the brand, its niche and its positioning are resonating with developers.”

According to Pepper, the creation of a dedicated team of franchise sales professionals focused solely on Cambria Suites development has proven key to the brand’s successful launch. “These professionals, led by Vice President Brad LeBlanc, know this segment, this industry and their territories inside and out,” Pepper said. “Their ability to identify the right developers in the right markets has propelled the brand’s initial growth.”

The first Cambria Suites, located in Savannah, GA is expected to open in 3rd quarter 2006.

According to Pepper, the cost per key to develop a Cambria Suites hotel is estimated at $63,000, excluding land and soft costs. Average daily rate is projected to be in the $100 range. Each hotel will typically offer 100 to 150 units - each 25 percent larger than industry standard - with a stylish, contemporary design. All rooms will be suites, each with separate living/work room and bedroom areas. In-room amenities will include luxury bedding and linens; plasma TVs; refrigerator and microwave; movable, ergonomic desk; and high-speed wireless Internet access. Upgraded suites will also be available.

Public spaces at Cambria Suites brand hotels will be open, contemporary and inviting. Lobbies will include club lounge seating and a large screen “media wall”; a lounge serving liquor, wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages; and a coffee bar serving premium coffees. Food and beverage options will also include a paid-for hot and cold breakfast buffet and a 24/7 convenience store stocked with food and sundry items. Each hotel will also include an expanded fitness facility, an indoor pool and more than 1,000 square feet of meeting space. Additional business services include on-site FAXing, copying and printing as well as multiple lobby power/Internet ports and high-speed wired and wireless Internet access.

“The appeal of Cambria Suites is that it exceeds the needs of traditional travelers while also catering to the multi-tasking, active, experiential travelers who will appreciate the brand’s contemporary styling and its functional attributes,” Pepper said.
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