Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries, recently announced the addition of two new women hoteliers as part of the brand’s “Women Own the Room” initiative, on the heels of last month’s first two signed agreements. The initiative aims to advance and empower women entrepreneurs to break through the predominantly male-dominated hotel industry. It provides assistance with financial solutions, personalized operational support and networking and educational opportunities. These impressive new program members will be opening new hotels in Dover, Del. and Warrenton, Va.
“Women want to own and develop hotels – the momentum we’re seeing proves it – they’ve just lacked trusted partners and advocates who will help guide them in their pursuits,” said Lisa Checchio, Chief Marketing Officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “The mentorship opportunities and resources Women Own the Room provides are invaluable and will better inspire and prepare future generations of women hoteliers.”
Joining members
Wyndham celebrated its first “Women Own the Room” signed agreements with new owner Trusha Patel in January 2022 for the debut of two new La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites dual-branded hotels in Texas. The two new women entrepreneurs announced as members are:
- Hetal Christian just opened a Wyndham Garden hotel in Dover, Del. Christian looks forward to the expanded development and operational support the program provides. She is currently expanding her portfolio into the profitable upper midscale segment.
- Neha Jadhav will open a La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites dual-branded hotel in Warrenton, Va. This new hotel will be her first new construction project.
Why this matters
The tourism and hospitality industry workforce is comprised of 70 percent women. However, only 10 percent of development roles are held by them. “Women Own the Room” helps to clear the path for women eager to make their mark on the hospitality industry. It aims to amend the lack of female representation in hotel ownership, real estate and investment funding roles. Wyndham has a longstanding commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion – including gender diversity, women’s economic empowerment and advancing women entrepreneurs. This program is a natural progression of the brand’s efforts to create a level playing field within the hospitality industry.
In addition to extensive mentorship and networking opportunities, the program offers a development incentive program. The program provides meaningful Wyndham financing, discounts on initial fees and complimentary first-year operating services to support the success of hotels developed by women.
“There are so many paths available to take in hospitality. A new construction project provides me with new challenges, but also new barriers that Women Own the Room is helping me break through,” said Neha Jadhav. “Wyndham has helped me navigate this new territory, provided me with the necessary tools for future success, and given me the opportunity to share my experiences with other women hoteliers. I’m proud to help pave the way for others and look forward to supporting more women pursue their dream of hotel ownership.”
To get involved and stay up-to-date on the Women Own the Room’s upcoming events, visit www.womenowntheroombywyndham.com. Developers interested in collaborating with Wyndham can visit Wyndhamdevelopment.com or contact the Wyndham Franchise Development team by email at development@wyndham.com.
About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties. It has approximately 9,000 hotels across approximately 95 countries on six continents. It has a network of over 810,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler. Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Super 8, Days Inn, Ramada and Wyndham. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services. The Company’s award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 92 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com.
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