Rick Welch Joins Country Hearth Inns As Senior Vice President Regional Marketing

ATLANTA - Country Hearth Inns announced that Rick Welch, president of Lakeshore Group, a hospitality consulting company, joined Country Hearth as senior vice president regional marketing.

Welch has held senior marketing positions at Hyatt Hotels, Day's Inns of America and U.S. Franchise Systems and has authored numerous analytical articles in hospitality publications. He holds a masters degree in business administration from Brenau University.

"Rick is a welcome addition to our team as we continue to grow the Country Hearth Inn lodging system," said Douglas C. Collins, president of Country Hearth Inns. "The experience and energy of Rick and of Linda Williams, senior vice president brand marketing, will combine to provide exceptional marketing services for our franchisees."

Country Hearth Inns are mid-priced, limited-service hotels that serve both the business traveler and vacationer. The hotels combine the homey atmosphere of a bed-and-breakfast, including Early-American décor, a complimentary "InnCredible Breakfast," manager's reception and free local telephone calls, with the convenience of a modern hotel.