Carlson Hotels Worldwide

SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- Country Inns & Suites By Carlson today announced it plans to add a minimum of 36 new properties to its portfolio in the Americas during 2009 while continuing the rollout of a new transitional design concept in new and existing properties.

“Although current economic conditions are very challenging, we anticipate a year of substantial unit growth while continuing comprehensive renovations throughout our system,” said Steve Mogck, executive vice president and chief operating officer for Country Inns & Suites By Carlson.

“Growth in 2009 will be highlighted by new properties in several major markets that support our strategy of increased presence and consumer awareness of the Country Inns & Suites By Carlson brand,” Mogck said at the Americas Lodging Investment Summit, taking place here this week. He noted key new locations including Baltimore, Md. (February 10); Richmond, Va.; (February 23); Knoxville, Tenn. (February 27); Barstow, Calif. (April 1); Harrisburg, Pa. (April 17); Tampa, Fla. (March 31) and Queens, N.Y. (May).

Each property will feature Country Inns & Suites’ new interior design prototype, created in response to consumer input for greater productivity, comfort and style. The new standards include a fresh color palette, increased workspace, bright lighting and clean-lined, transitional furnishings reflecting current residential trends. The new properties will also feature the signature elements of the Country Inns & Suites concept including iconic hardwood style plank lobby flooring, lobby fireplaces and front porches. Many guestrooms offer microwaves and refrigerators.

“The new interior design standards are being introduced at all new properties, and through renovations at existing properties,” Mogck said.

Specific elements include:

  • New wall coverings, window treatments and carpeting in guestrooms
  • Solid-colored duvets featuring textured patterns, replacing floral bed comforters
  • Guestroom workspaces featuring convenient, built-in electrical outlets and unobtrusive solutions for lamps, telephones and power cords for electronic devices
  • Addition of flat panel LCD televisions
  • Bright, functional lighting in hotel corridors, guestrooms and bathrooms.
  • New Fitness Centers offering a welcoming environment with upscale exercise equipment

Country Inns & Suites locations offer warm and welcoming hospitality with many guest amenities such as complimentary hot breakfast, in-room coffee maker, in-room iron and ironing board, free weekday morning newspaper, swimming pool, whirlpool, fitness center and free high-speed Internet access.

Country Inns & Suites By Carlson embraces the love of reading through its Read It & Return Lending Library. A variety of titles for all ages are available for guests to borrow and read at their leisure at more than 450 locations in the U.S. and Canada. Country Inns & Suites supports literacy efforts through charitable donations. For reservations and information, visit www.countryinns.com or call toll-free 1-800-456-4000.

There are currently more than 465 Country Inns & Suites locations in the Americas, Asia and Europe.

Country Inns & Suites By Carlson is part of Minneapolis, Minn.-based Carlson Hotels Worldwide, whose operations also include Regent Hotels & Resorts®; Radisson Hotels & Resorts®; Park Plaza® Hotels & Resorts; and Park Inn®.