PARSIPPANY, N.J., June 1 /PRNewswire/ – Ramada Franchise Systems, Inc. announced today the introduction of its new frequent stay program, Club Ramada. To expand the program's appeal to all travel audiences, the program is being launched as the chain's $3.5 million summer promotional strategy. Major features of Club Ramada include a point redemption level of 12,500 for a free hotel stay no blackout dates and merchandise gift certificates from top-name retailers such as Eddie Bauer(R), K * B Toys(TM), Warner Brothers Studio Stores and Barnes & Noble.

"For Ramada to remain competitive in the intense battle for frequent guests, we needed a loyalty program that appealed to all travel audiences," said Steve Belmonte, President and CEO of Ramada Franchise Systems, Inc. "Launching Club Ramada as our summer promotion adds not only excitement but also great value to a guest's stay."

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, everyone joining Club Ramada will automatically receive 5,000 bonus points. In addition, families will receive the exclusive "Animush" activity children's book featuring the adorable space creatures from the planet Adamar as well as $200 worth of valuable coupons from Entertainment Publications.

Club Ramada is a fully automated guest frequency program provided free of charge to Ramada guests. Club Ramada has no blackout dates and members receive 10 points for every dollar spent at a Ramada property not only for room charges, but also any charges that appear on the guest's room folio such as telephone calls, gift shop purchases, restaurant meals and even taxes. Points can be redeemed for a great variety of awards including free stays at Ramada properties, clothing, toys, free car rentals and airline mileage vouchers among others.

"We designed Club Ramada to be exactly what a guest loyalty program should be – easy, flexible and rewarding," added Keith Pierce, Vice President of Marketing for the Ramada. "We are very pleased to partner with a select group of leading brands for this unique summer promotion and will support the campaign with a comprehensive media blitz and on-property display material."

The Ramada chain has earmarked approximately $3.5 million for network TV, cable, USA Today, People Magazine and on-line advertising for its Club Ramada summer promotion. Impax Marketing Group, Philadelphia, PA, created and developed the Club Ramada promotion. Ramada has also created a website, , with special promotions, bonuses and offers.

Ramada Franchise Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of Cendant Corporation CD, is a mid- to upper-mid-market chain of over 1,000 Ramada Limited, Inn and Plaza Hotel properties throughout the United States. Reservations can be made at any Ramada property via 1-800-2-RAMADA or www.ramada.com.

Michael Greywitt
Director, Media Relations
(805) 418-8526
Wyndham