Hilton launches Home2 Suites

When new brands are launched, it usually takes a good 18 months before the first property opens its doors. In today’s economy, one would assume the process of finding a franchisee, a location and constructing a property would take even longer.
Which is why it was surprising to witness three franchisees sign live license agreements for Hilton Hotels Corp.’s newest brand, Home2 Suites by Hilton. The extended-stay brand, billed as “hip and humble,” debuted Monday before the opening of The Americas Lodging Investment Summit.

“You’re going to hear a lot about how bad the economy is and how tough times are … and they are,” said Chris Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton Hotels Corp. “But this is a great testimonial to the fact that we’re investing in our future and we’re forging ahead while a lot of others are shying away with what’s going on in the world.”

Click here for the full news release from Hilton about the brand launch ("Hilton launches new extended-stay brand," Jan. 26, 2009).

Click here for Jason Freed's blog post about the launch ("The year of Hilton begins," Jan. 26, 2009).