HPT Announces Termination of Wyndham Operations at 15 Hotels and Negotiations Regarding 12 Hotels
NEWTON, Mass.--Hospitality Properties Trust
HPT has two leases with WBR subsidiaries: one lease includes 15 Summerfield by Wyndham hotels located in eight states; the second lease includes 12 Wyndham hotels located in eight states. On April 1, 2003, WBR failed to pay rent due HPT under these leases. The monthly rents are approximately $2.1 million/mo. for 15 Summerfield hotels and $1.5 million/mo. for the 12 Wyndham hotels.
On April 2, 2003, HPT declared WBR in default of its lease obligations. Simultaneously, HPT exercised its rights to retain certain collateral security it held for the WBR lease obligations, including security deposits of $33 million (which were not escrowed) and capital replacement reserves totaling about $7 million (which were previously escrowed).
Earlier today HPT terminated WBR's occupancy of the 15 Summerfield hotels. Starting today these 15 hotels are being operated for HPT's account under a management agreement by Candlewood Hotel Company
Commenting on the selection of CNDL to assume the operations of the 15 Summerfield hotels, John G. Murray, president of HPT, made the following statement:
HPT and WBR are currently negotiating concerning continuation of the Summerfield brand affiliation for these 15 hotels at least for a transitional period. The new management contract between HPT and CNDL is terminable upon 30 days notice. HPT stated that it has not yet decided whether the best long-term affiliation for these hotels is with the Summerfield brand and CNDL management or with an alterative brand or manager. HPT has determined that its interests may be served by stabilizing these hotels and thereafter reconsidering these issues.
With regard to the lease for the 12 Wyndham hotels which WBR defaulted on April 1, 2003, HPT and WBR have discussed terms for WBR's continued occupancy of these hotels, but no agreement has been achieved. Accordingly, HPT has begun discussions with a stand-by manager for these hotels. HPT has not yet decided whether to retain the Wyndham brand or to re-brand these 12 hotels.
Hospitality Properties Trust is a real estate investment trust which owns 251 hotels located throughout the United States.