Country Hearth to Bring Hotels to India
ATLANTA, GA, January 31, 2007. America's Best Franchising, Inc., which franchises Country Hearth Inns & Suites has signed a Master License Agreement with KI Group, Inc. to bring the Country Hearth hotel brand to India. The agreement calls for the development of at least 20 hotels throughout India, with an option to further develop the brand in other Asian Pacific markets such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
"The Country Hearth brand has a great tradition and respect for its guests," said Arun Malhotra, Director of KI Group, Inc. "With all the recent economic and commercial growth in India, there is a real need for quality mid-market hotels. Country Hearth, with its homelike feel, is the perfect fit and will be a welcome addition to the region's lodging market."
Shiv Karwal, also a Director of KI Group, Inc., added, "KI Group, Inc is pleased with the support and encouragement provided by the Country Hearth Team, both in the U.S. and Canada, as we become a member of the Country Hearth Family. We look forward to their continued support for the success of Country Hearth operations in India."
According to Malhotra, the Country Hearth hotels will be primarily new construction and developed in India's Tier 1 and II cities such as Calcutta, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai (Tier 1), and Bangalore, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Jaipur and Pune (Tier II).
"We are excited to welcome KI Group to our family and pleased to bring the Country Hearth product to India," said Doug Collins, Chairman and CEO of America's Best Franchising, Inc. and its subsidiaries. "The India market represents an important and ongoing development opportunity for Country Hearth hotels, which are especially well-suited to the region's vibrant and growing economy."
There are currently more than 85 Country Hearth Inns & Suites properties and 5,500 rooms open or under development throughout the U.S. and Canada.
The Country Hearth Inns & Suites brand prides itself in mid-priced hotels that provide Southern hospitality, comfort and value. Hotels combine the homespun atmosphere of a bed and breakfast with the convenience of a hotel, including daily complimentary Inn Credible Breakfast(R), freshly baked cookies and free local calls. For reservations, call 1-800-848-5767 toll-free, or visit www.countryhearth.com.
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