UNITY WAS THE theme at Sonesta International Hotels' inaugural conference in Las Vegas. Sonesta essentially completed its integration with Red Lion Hotels
Corp. with the announcement of a unified loyalty program, Sonesta Travel Pass, and combined website.
Approximately 1,300 attendees, including franchisees, general managers of Sonesta's corporate owned properties and employees, came to the conference and trade show
at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. Along with keynote speakers and entertainment, the conference provided updates on the company's status.
"My team and I have been looking forward to this moment for months to finally be with you, to talk with you, to listen to you and your guests and to show off a
little to you," said John Murray, executive vice president for The RMR Group that owns Sonesta. "Because we really do have a lot to show off. We also have a lot
to celebrate. Today we're here to celebrate the transformation of Sonesta and Red Lion's histories into our future as one Sonesta."
SONESTA INTERNATIONAL HOTELS Corp. executed approximately 15 franchise agreements, adding more than 1,900 keys in the first quarter of 2024. These new
franchise hotels span Sonesta's brands, including The James, Sonesta ES Suites, Sonesta Essential, Americas Best Value Inn, Red Lion Hotels, Red Lion Inn &
Suites, and Sonesta Hotels & Resorts, Sonesta said in a statement.
"The 15 signed franchise agreements during the first quarter underscore Sonesta's momentum as we welcome new owners into our growing portfolio and expand our
market presence," said Keith Pierce, Sonesta's executive vice president and the president of franchise and development. "With a fast, friendly, and flexible
approach and a seamless conversion process for our franchisees, we expect continued growth throughout 2024."
These agreements highlight Sonesta's appeal as a conversion option compared to larger competitors, the statement added. The company said hotel owners are
attracted to the company's focus on maximizing ROI through property rebranding. It offers owners various options across upper upscale, lifestyle, upscale,
midscale, extended-stay and premium economy segments.