NorthCourse Research Highlights 2006 Growth of Fractional Industry
32% increase in sales over previous year
JANUARY 22, 2007. Advanced highlights from the upcoming 8th Annual Fractional Interest Report from NorthCourseSM Leisure Real Estate Solutions illustrates that the explosive growth of fractional developments is continuing.
The report is based upon a survey of 249 identified fractional developments in the United States, the Caribbean and Canada - which represents a 39% increase in the number of fractional developments surveyed last year. In addition, NorthCourse has uncovered that fractional sales in North America increased 32% from 2005 to 2006, with total sales volume reaching a total of $1.65 billion.
"These latest figures not only showcase the dynamic growth of the fractional industry throughout North America, but also highlight NorthCourse's increased and unparalleled ability to provide the most comprehensive tracking of the industry's progress," said Kevin Wallace, chief executive officer of NorthCourse Advisory Services. "We have invested significantly in improving the report. This year's report will not only address the state of the industry, but we also explore the causal relationships behind resort developments success and rates of return as well."
"In addition, because we separated the destination club category from the sales of fractionals (which now are defined as minimum four-week intervals or 1/13 ownership), the extraordinary growth of the fractional industry specifically is even further underscored," added Wallace.
NorthCourse will release its comprehensive Annual Fractional Interest Report at the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) Convention in March. Highlights and top line information will also be revealed as part of the upcoming 8th Annual Fractional Interest Symposium, which will be held in a Webinar format on February 27. The online symposium is free to registrants. More information and registration information is available at www.northcourse.com.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
