Choice Continues to Recruit Minority and Non-traditional Franchisees
FEBRUARY 26, 2008. Worldwide lodging franchisor Choice Hotels International (NYSE:CHH) announced that its emerging markets team added 40 new franchisees in 2007 - approximately a 15 percent increase over 2006.
With executed franchise agreements for all ten Choice hotel brands in 17 states nationwide, these new franchisees, comprised of African American, Hispanic, Native American and non-traditional hoteliers, all have majority ownership of a Choice brand hotel.
"We had another phenomenal year in 2007, recruiting minority entrepreneurs and first-time hoteliers into the Choice Hotels system," said Brian Parker, vice president, emerging markets and new business development. "Our desire and passion to educate novice hotel investors is second to none and our commitment to their individual success truly resonates."
One of the year's biggest highlights, Choice Hotels was recognized as one of the "Top 50 Franchises for Minorities" by the National Minority Franchising Initiative in a list that appeared in USA Today, launching the publication's annual Franchising Today section. According to the NMFI, Choice was selected from over 280 companies based on its aggressive and exceptional focus on recruiting and supporting minority franchisees into its system. Choice Hotels also added an Adrian Award to its list of accomplishments, presented to the company for its emerging markets development marketing campaign.
Combined with its new initiatives, the emerging markets team continues to conduct well-attended franchise seminars across the country in an effort to educate minority entrepreneurs about the lodging industry and benefits of hotel ownership.
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 
