Davidson Named "Preferred Managers" by Starwood
MEMPHIS, TN, October 23, 2006. Davidson Hotel Company, one of the nation's largest hotel management companies, today announced that the company was named a "Preferred Management Company" by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. for their upscale and luxury brands, including St. Regis(R), The Luxury Collection(R), Sheraton(R), Westin(R), Four Points(R) by Sheraton, W(R), Le M'eridien(R) and the recently announced aloftSM and ELEMENTSM Hotels. The designation is by invitation only and places Davidson on a short list of elite operators approved to operate its licensed hotels.
"Only a relatively small number of companies have achieved this designation," said John A. Belden, Davidson's president and chief executive officer. "This will provide us with additional opportunities for growth, but it also carries with it a strong responsibility to continue to maintain our high levels of quality, guest satisfaction and performance. Davidson's approach to service and hospitality align perfectly with Starwood's expectations for its unique brand experiences."
Davidson's portfolio currently includes three Starwood-branded hotels, two Westins currently under development and a Sheraton. Currently ranked the 12th largest independent hotel management company with 2005 revenues of nearly $280 million, Davidson is projecting $400 million in annualized revenues in 2006 and targeting over $650 million by 2010.
"Davidson has demonstrated its understanding of Starwood's strong expectations and exacting standards for its brands," said Lynne Dougherty, Starwood senior vice president, owners relations and franchise. "We look forward to expanding our relationship as Davidson continues to grow."
Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., Davidson Hotel Company is an award-winning, full-service hotel owner and third-party management company that provides management development/renovation, acquisition, consulting and accounting expertise for the hospitality industry. The company currently owns and/or manages 27 upscale hotels with nearly 7,800 rooms across the United States, including such brands as Westin, Sheraton, Hilton, Embassy Suites, Doubletree, Marriott, Renaissance and Hyatt. Additional information on Davidson may be found at the company's Web site, www.davidsonhotels.com.




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