Hihotels added four properties in first quarter

FOUR PROPERTIES JOINED the hihotels by Hospitality International portfolio during the first quarter. The new additions are in Maryland, Oregon and Texas and are all conversions.

The four hotels signed or activated are:

• A former Econo Lodge turned Red Carpet Inn in College Park, Maryland, signed.
• A former Rodeway Inn turned Scottish Inns in Ashland, Oregon, signed and activated.
• A former Americas Best Value Inn turned Scottish Inns in DeSoto, Texas, activated.
• A former Econo Lodge turned Scottish Inns & Suites in Spring, Texas, signed.

The five hihotels brands include Red Carpet Inn, Scottish Inns, Master Hosts Inns, Downtowner Inns and Passport Inn. Hospitality International said the brands’ franchising model includes customized support, advanced technology and overall value.

The new hotels join 18 properties throughout the U.S. added in 2020, most owned by Asian American hoteliers, as are the four added this year.

“When considering all my options for a new brand, I decided to go with Scottish Inns because of the personal and professional assistance they bring to the table,” said Ben Patel, owner of the Scottish Inns DeSoto. “Unlike many other brands, hihotels offers the services of a sales and marketing director who is on call for me at no additional cost. Their brand requirements are minimal and the ramp-up period was short, allowing me to transition without any hassle or operational disruption.”

Ketan Rama owns the Scottish Inns & Suites in Spring, Bharat Lad owns the Ashland Scottish Inns and Naginbhai Patel owns the Red Carpet Inn in College Park. More hoteliers are expressing interest in the brand, said Chris Guimbellot, hihotels president and CEO.

“We provide the tools to help hoteliers maximize their ROI potential, such as the ‘Assurance & Marketing Program’ that delivers ongoing sales and marketing support and training right to your door,” Guimbellot said.