About 17% of bookings at the fast-growing Homewood Suites are by agents, according to Jim Holthouser, senior vice president, brand marketing.
“We’re very well represented in all GDS’s,” he told TravelMole.
Among perks offered to agents is the Unlimited Budget program, said Mr. Holthouser.
“Agents who sign up are given a debit card. Every time they make a booking with one of the Hilton family brands, they get cash credited to their account. They can use that cash just like a debit card,” he said.
Started in late 1989, Homewood now has 137 properties with another 72 approved or under construction. The chain is one of the fastest growing in the US.
Typical rates for Homewood properties start at $119, but go down in increments for longer stays. The average stay of guests is about hour and a half nights, according to Mr Holthouser.
All properties have high-speed internet access. Other improved amenities in recent years include healthier breakfast offerings.
Mr. Holthouser said exercise rooms have become the standard in the industry, but one recent development is a growing demand for the addition of free weights. Another growing customer preference is to have CD players available.
While the chain markets both to business and leisure guests, about three-fourths of its bookings are business travelers, according to Mr Holthouser.
Report by David Wilkening
