Best Western Named Preferred Lodging Partner
American and Canadian Automobile Associations
MAY 22, 2007. Best Western International has been selected as a Preferred Lodging Partner of both the American Automobile Association (AAA) and Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) through 2010, extending the long-term relationship between the travel industry organizations.
As part of the Preferred Lodging Partner agreement, Best Western and AAA/CAA will leverage the mutual strengths of their iconic brands and road-travel heritage through channels such as the associations' Approved Lodging, Official Appointment, TourBook and "Show Your Card & Save(R)" (SYC&S) programs. The partnership also provides Best Western greater access to the more than 50 million AAA/CAA members and their respective clubs through preferential placement in the organizations' sales materials and through targeted marketing efforts. In addition, Best Western will have more extensive usage rights to the AAA/CAA brand and logo in its related advertising/promotional activities.
AAA/CAA members spend $38 billion (USD) annually on lodging, representing 36 percent of all U.S. lodging room nights.
"With many of our hotels located in traditional drive-to markets, Best Western has always been committed to bringing exceptional value and unmatched service to AAA and CAA members," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. "We are proud to be named a Preferred Lodging Partner, and look forward to working together to further enhance the travel experience for this important audience."
"This new program represents a much deeper partnership with Best Western going forward," said Sandi Hughes, vice president, travel services for AAA. "Our goal is to provide AAA/CAA members with reliable information about quality accommodations at a good value and Best Western really embodies that."
In 2005, Best Western introduced a free, customized loyalty program designed exclusively for this market segment. The AAA/CAA Preferred Gold Crown Club(R) International program offers members elite benefits and privileges plus richer promotional offers throughout the year.
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