Contributed by IHG
IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has unveiled a new, dual-branded prototype, combining the fast-growing avid hotels brand and industry-leading, extended stay brand Candlewood Suites. The release of the new prototype, targeted for select markets, offers a design that builds on the expansion and popularity of avid hotels since its launch in 2017. Currently, there are 180+ properties in the avid hotels pipeline and the 40th hotel — avid hotel Auburn University Area — is now open and accepting guests.
Candlewood Suites is one of the most well-known extended stay brands in the industry, with nearly 360 hotels open in North America. This new dual-branded prototype combines the two exceptional IHG brands, which serve complementary demand segments, within one footprint. With integrated public and back-of-house areas, shared staffing and a smaller footprint, this design provides a cost efficient and right-sized method to capture both transient and extended-stay demand in select markets. These dual-branded properties will share an entrance and, once guests enter the hotel, they will notice elements from both brands integrated throughout the public areas, including a free, grab-and-go breakfast from avid hotels and a well-stocked retail market modeled on the Candlewood Cupboard. Guest rooms will follow the prototypical avid hotels and Candlewood Suites designs.
Jennifer Gribble, senior vice president, Global Marketing, Mainstream Brands, IHG, commented: “Nearly half of all avid hotels opened in 2020, undeniably the most challenging year for the hotel industry, which is a true testament to the strength of this brand. The avid hotels brand continues to grow and resonate with guests who are looking for the basics done exceptionally well at a fair price, while Candlewood Suites is a beloved brand for extended stays with an established audience of loyal guests. This dual-branded offering is another example of how we’re listening to our owners and adapting our brands to offer the right fit in the right markets.”
The 40th avid hotel in North America has opened in Auburn, Alabama, and is owned by Paragon Hotel Company. Located near Auburn University, this property is ideal for college sports fans and families of students who are visiting the city for spectator events and activities at the school.
In celebration of this brand milestone, IHG Rewards members can earn 4X points for every qualifying stay at avid hotels from Aug. 2, 2021, through Nov. 30, 2021. Guests enjoy the hotel experience avid provides and, with additional openings every month, more and more consumers are trying and loving avid hotels for the first time.
Mitesh Patel, president of Paragon Hotel Company, owner of avid hotel Auburn University Area, member of the avid hotels Owner Advisory Board, commented: “We are excited to celebrate this brand’s 40th hotel milestone and open Paragon Hotel Company’s first avid hotels property. As a member of the brand’s Owner Advisory Board, I take great pride and ownership in the growth and momentum of this brand and what the future holds. Auburn is an energetic college town, attracting visitors from across the country year-round, and I believe the avid hotels brand will be very popular with travelers seeking a high-quality and affordable stay in this market.”
Additional, recently opened avid hotels properties include: guest-centric hallmarks such as best-in-class room design for sound sleeping, seamless technology with 55” smart TVs and access to streaming services, a complimentary, grab-and-go breakfast and backed by the IHG Clean Promise.