“We’d like to thank Tod Fitzpatrick for a job well done,” said Tim Shea, President and CEO of ASSA ABLOY Hospitality worldwide. “Tod was influential in selecting his successor, and plans to work with Marc through the transition. We are grateful for his vision, dedication and success.”

Freundlich brings nearly 20 years of global experience in international security business management to ASSA ABLOY Hospitality, Inc. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of Indala Corporation, an ASSA ABLOY Identification Technology Group (ITG) company. Mr. Freundlich also served on the executive management team of ITG which included companies such as HID Corp, AccessID, Synercard, Omnikey and others. ITG companies represent the world’s largest supplier of radio-frequency identification (RFID) devices to the security industry, including: proximity, contact and contactless smart cards and associated reader devices. During his tenure at Indala, the business contributed outstanding growth in profitability to Assa Abloy ITG, and has become a major contributor to the overall success of the group.

“Marc’s appointment comes at a critical time for hospitality,” Shea said. “By tapping his expertise in business management, customer service, and extensive knowledge of the electronic security and communications market, our customers will stay one step ahead in security technology, while our brands remain focused on customer service and performance. I have every confidence that Marc’s focused approach to sustained growth and his proven track record of success will keep VingCard Elsafe® and TimeLox® in leadership positions within the global security market.

Strong Background leads to Secure Future
Freundlich said he is honored to have the opportunity to lead such well respected brands in the hospitality industry.

“As customer’s needs change, we need to change accordingly,” Freundlich said. “I plan to continue the company’s ‘We’re Listening’ initiative, and to implement strategies focused upon customer service, product innovation, and operational excellence. For example, our newest product, the Signature series was designed for properties that require effective security and minimal door hardware which blends into any hotel environment. By all reports, customers are very excited about the new look and functionality of the Signature series. Each of our brands will introduce significant new and innovative products this year.”

2005 was a very successful year for ASSA ABLOY Hospitality’s security brands in North America. A substantial increase in sales for VingCard’s electronic locks came from new construction properties across North America; Elsafe achieved significant growth from in-room safe upgrades throughout corporate-owned and franchised properties; and TimeLox continued to grow steadily in the casino market while also making in-roads in the timeshare and condo hotels markets.

“Our goal is to always be the first choice in hotel security,” Freundlich said.