G6 HOSPITALITY, PARENT company for Motel 6 and Studio 6, has joined the long line of hotel companies discovering a new focus on cleaning in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The company’s “Clean@6” program, like most, focuses on three key elements: enhanced cleaning, social distancing and altering social behavior.
To achieve better sanitation, Clean@6 instructs G6 owners to clean more frequently with an emphasis on high-touch surfaces including front desks and doorknobs and handles. Hotels should have hand sanitizer stations in the lobby and hire a third-party service for deep-cleaning if necessary.
Social distancing should be encouraged in common areas and the back of the house if possible. Plexiglass guards have been installed at front desks and hotel staff will not enter occupied rooms, cleaning only by appointment.
Part of altering social behavior includes more communication with guests regarding COVID-19 best practices and property requirements and instructing employees to wash hands frequently and stay home if they are not feeling well. Employees also are required to wear masks and gloves while working on property.
“Clean@6” is in effect at all company-managed locations and serves as a guideline for franchisees, many of whom have already adopted it.
“We want Motel 6 and Studio 6 guests to know that we prioritize their health,” said Rob Palleschi, G6 CEO. “The majority of our properties have remained open during this crisis, enabling us to gather real-time intelligence to guide our decisions and best practices. Together with our trusted advisors and franchise partners, we adopted a thoughtful and proactive approach to serving guests in this new environment.”
Toral Bala, multi-unit G6 owner and owner advisory council member said the pandemic has been a first for everyone on several levels.
“It gave us fear and confusion. G6 made it known that franchisees were not alone in this battle; they stood by us, providing help ranging from government aid resources to cleanliness protocol updates,” he said. “These are the times when franchisees remember which brand partners were truly there for them most.”
Last week, Stonebridge Cos. of Denver and Red Roof announced their own cleaning programs. Like G6, both companies are part of American Hotel & Lodging Association’s “Safe Stay” initiative.
