Ascend Collection by Choice Continues Growth
Adds Eleven Properties in Final Months of 2010 Bringing Total to 70
Silver Spring, MD - February 28, 2011 - Ascend Collection from Choice Hotels International, Inc. enjoyed record growth during the fourth quarter of 2010, company executives announced today.
In the closing months of last year, Choice Hotels executed contracts for 11 new properties to be in this elite network, increasing its ranks to more than 70 upscale lodgings open and under development. The fast-growing membership program added hotels across the U.S. and expanded internationally, with three properties in Atlantic Canada.
“Ascend Collection has a proven track record for driving business,” explains Stacy Ragland, vice president, Ascend Collection operations. “Member properties maintain their independent identities. At the same time, they become part of the Choice Hotels global distribution and reservations systems. Plus, they gain visibility before a network of more than 12 million Choice Privileges rewards members worldwide.”
Ragland says Ascend Collection appeals to a growing number of business and leisure travelers who like to stay at high-service independent hotels that provide a true taste of the local culture. For easier booking, the portfolio is divided into three categories: Historic, Boutique and Unique. Member lodgings boast attractive rates, and some include perks like free high-speed Internet, free local calls and free continental breakfast.
From big-city boutique hotels to romantic coastal hideaways, following are the hotels for which new Ascend Collection franchise agreements were executed in the last quarter of 2010.
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 
