Celebrating 75 years of hospitality, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning global network of hotels located in over 100 countries and territories that offers accommodations for all types of travelers.
Guests can select from 18 unique hotel brands: Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Vīb®, Glō®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Sadie®, Aiden®, BW Premier Collection®, and BW Signature Collection®. Through acquisition, Best Western Hotels & Resorts now also offers WorldHotels® Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Crafted collections. Completing its portfolio, Best Western offers SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection® and SureStay StudioSM franchises** Independently owned and operated, each brand has its own personality and style, but all share the same commitment to delivering superior customer service, exceptional value and modern amenities.
Discover more information about this iconic brand including information on our executive team, who are recognized throughout the industry and beyond for their leadership and vision; our commitment to supporting local charitable efforts around the world; and information for developers interested in adding a Best Western hotel to their portfolio.
Breakthrough Results From An Iconic Brand
Best Western® Hotels and Resorts (BWHR) continues to receive a record number of industry awards and accolades. These awards include receiving top recognitions from J.D. Power. SureStay Hotel Group® has been ranked No. 1 in the Economy segment in the 2021 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study – marking the second year in a row the brand has ranked No.1; and Best Western Premier has been ranked No. 2 in the Upscale segment in the J.D. Power 2021 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study.
Adding to the brand’s list of recent accomplishments, Business Travel News (BTN) selected Best Western as the No. 1 Midscale Hotel Brand and Best Western Plus as the No. 2 Upper Midscale Hotel Brand in BTN’s 2020 Hotel Brand Survey- which marks the sixth year that BWHR has been ranked at the top by BTN’s readership; and AAA®/CAA®’ has awarded Best Western with the Lodging Partner of the Year award every year since 2008.
In 2020, the brand also achieved its highest levels of guest satisfaction, as 2,037 hotels globally received the coveted Tripadvisor® Travelers’ Choice Award.
Best Western Rewards® (BWR®), Best Western’s guest loyalty program, has also brought home top honors including being named being ranked as a top loyalty program by WalletHub for the four consecutive years.
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09 May 23
Partner News
BWH Hotel Group® Continues Rapid Caribbean Growth with Signing of Three New Hotels and ResortsBWH Hotel Group® announces the signing of three additional hotels as the company continues ...Read moreBWH Hotel Group® Continues Rapid Caribbean Growth with Signing of Three New Hotels and Resorts - News & announcementsBWH Hotel Group® announces the signing of three additional hotels as the company continues its rapid expansion across the Caribbean region. The new hotels include the region’s first Aiden® hotel in Curacao; a new construction Best Western Plus® at the Puerto Plata International Airport; and Mayaguez Plaza Hotel, a new BW Signature Collection® hotel in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. The region’s first Aiden hotel is the new-construction Aiden Resort Bapor-Kibra, which is set to open in 2026. Situated on a hillside overlooking the trendy Mambo Beach area, and just a five-minute walk to the beach, the resort will feature 160 guestrooms with first-floor private plunge pools and a large pool for all guests, rooftop bar, 10 on-site dining concepts, casino, and convenience store. Developers Nathalie Faria and Akash Soemeer were inspired through travel to “reimagine the hotel experience through [their] own approach to owning and operating a hotel,” according to Faria. “It’s the first property on-island with everything on-premises. This is one of the hottest areas in Curacao for development right now,” she added. In the Dominican Republic, a new construction hotel that will open in early 2025 as a Best Western Plus and is set to be the first hotel at the Puerto Plata International Airport on the north coast. The hotel, which is scheduled to begin construction within 24 months, will feature 92 guestrooms and suites, meeting space, fitness center, outdoor pool, dining room, and business center. It will be developed and managed by Neon Lights Estate Corp, according to Juan Tomas Diaz, CEO of the company. Miguel Rene De la Cruz, project director, said that Neon Lights plans two additional BWH Hotel Group projects in the Dominican Republic including one in Cabeza-de-Toro/Punta Cana, and another in Juan Dolio. The third hotel recently signed is the Mayaguez Plaza Hotel, a BW Signature Collection in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. The iconic boutique-style hotel is located on the plaza in the heart of Mayaguez, where in 1904 it served as the monastery for the adjacent Our Lady of the Candelaria Cathedral. According to Nestor Ruiz Colon, whose company, IHP Hospitality, owns and operates the hotel, 20 additional boutique-style extended-stay rooms will be created in existing adjacent buildings as the company spearheads development of the Mayaguez Tourist Zone. The hotel is open and operating now, welcoming guests to the famed and historic city in western Puerto Rico. “BWH Hotel Group has been focused on growing our presence in the Caribbean region and we are proud to announce the signings of these three beautiful hotels in the Dominican Republic, Curacao, and Puerto Rico,” said Brad LeBlanc, Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer, BWH Hotel Group. “These hotels will be excellent additions to our global portfolio and will undoubtedly provide our valued guests with more options for exceptional travel experiences in the region.” “Each of these hotels will bring a unique experience for travelers to the Caribbean region,” said Bill Clegg, Caribbean Director of Development, BWH Hotel Group. “From the modern style and local charm of our Aiden brand to the trusted service and contemporary amenities of Best Western Plus, and the truly authentic and enticing offerings of BW Signature Collection, locals and travelers alike are sure to enjoy these new offerings in the region.” -
07 Oct 21
Partner News
BWH Hotel Group® Announces New President And CEO Lawrence M. CuculicBWH Hotel Group announced today that Lawrence (Larry) M. Cuculic has been appointed President and ...Read moreBWH Hotel Group® Announces New President And CEO Lawrence M. Cuculic - News & announcementsBWH Hotel Group announced today that Lawrence (Larry) M. Cuculic has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer by the company’s Board of Directors. Cuculic has been serving as Senior Vice President and General Counsel for the company for 12 years and will assume his new role as President and CEO on December 1, 2021. “Together with my fellow Board of Directors I have great confidence in our decision to appoint Larry our new President and CEO,” comments Ishwar Naran, Board Chairman, BWH Hotel Group. “Larry brings tremendous experience from his prior roles, military background and longstanding position within our organization. Larry is a trusted and decisive leader whose collaborative and strategic approach will undoubtedly lead the company to even stronger financial success, driving positive growth for our hoteliers.” Cuculic takes the helm of the global hospitality powerhouse at a pivotal time in the company’s history. Under the leadership of outgoing President and CEO, David Kong, BWH Hotel Group has grown from one to 18 vibrant and exciting brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury. The company boasts successive records of RevPAR growth, culminating at 113.9 in 2021, as well as industry-leading levels of guest and hotel satisfaction ratings. Under Cuculic’s leadership, BWH Hotel Group is on track to continue leading the industry as a powerful global hotel company. “It is a true honor to be selected as the next President and CEO of BWH Hotel Group by our esteemed Board of Directors,” said Cuculic. “During my tenure with the organization I have had the great privilege of working alongside David Kong and witnessing the remarkable impact he has made on our company and the industry as a whole. I can only hope to live up to the legacy David is leaving behind and I am committed to ensuring the long-term success of our members and our organization. I am fortunate to have the support of our Board and one of the most successful senior executive teams in the industry. I am excited and look forward to working together with our Board, our members, my colleagues, and our corporate associates to usher BWH Hotel Group into its next chapter.” “I am pleased to be passing the reigns of BWH Hotel Group to my long-term colleague, Larry Cuculic,” comments David Kong, President and CEO, BWH Hotel Group. “I have worked alongside Larry for 12 years and have been continually inspired by his thoughtful leadership and strategic thinking. Throughout his tenure, Larry has gained valuable experience through a wide range of responsibilities, including our Central Reservations and Contact Centers. He is conversant in many areas of our company and is well liked and respected throughout the organization. Larry is the ideal candidate for the role of President and CEO. He is the right person to lead our organization through the recovery phase of the pandemic and to capitalize on new opportunities ahead. I am confident that together with our strong senior executive team, Larry will drive even more success for BWH Hotel Group and our hoteliers in the years ahead.” Prior to joining BWH Hotel Group, Cuculic was Senior Vice President General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Wabash National Corporation. Previously, Cuculic served as Vice President Legal and Corporate Secretary for American Commercial Lines, Inc., and was a partner in the law firm Gambs, Mucker & Bauman. Before retiring from the U.S. Army, Cuculic served as a Judge Advocate General’s Corps officer in various legal positions, including appointment as a military judge. Cuculic received his B.S. from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and his J.D. from Notre Dame Law School. He also earned an LL.M. degree from the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's School and graduated from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. To learn more about BWH Hotel Group, please visit bestwestern.com or worldhotels.com. To follow Larry Cuculic on LinkedIn, visit: linkedin.com/in/larry-cuculic/.About BWH Hotel Group®: BWH Hotel Group is a leading, global hospitality network comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels™ Collection, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay Hotel Group®. The global network boasts approximately 4,700 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 18 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. For more information visit bestwestern.com, bestwesterndevelopers.com, worldhotels.com and surestay.com. * Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline. -
13 Sep 21
Partner News
BWH Hotel Group® President & CEO David Kong Announces Retirement After 20 Years At The Helm Of Global Hospitality BrandBWH Hotel Group announced today that David Kong, President and Chief Executive Officer, will be ...Read moreBWH Hotel Group® President & CEO David Kong Announces Retirement After 20 Years At The Helm Of Global Hospitality Brand - News & announcementsBWH Hotel Group announced today that David Kong, President and Chief Executive Officer, will be retiring at the end of 2021. Kong, the industry’s longest running CEO, joined Best Western® Hotels & Resorts in 2001 and was named CEO in 2004. During this 20-year journey, Kong would transform the company, form BWH Hotel Group and shape it into a global powerhouse. He leaves an indelible mark on the entire hotel industry. “David Kong is a once in a lifetime leader whose contributions to Best Western and BWH Hotel Group are truly immeasurable,” comments Ishwar Naran, Board Chairman, BWH Hotel Group. “It has been the honor of my career to work alongside David and witness first-hand his remarkable passion and dedication to our industry. David has always led by example and, most importantly, cared deeply about those he serves from hoteliers, to colleagues, associates, guests and communities.” “David Kong is recognized in our industry as a leader that truly cares about people,” said Chip Rogers, President and CEO, American Hotel & Lodging Association. “He has been an amazing leader and among the most respected people in this industry.” “David has been a mentor to so many of us over the years,” added Geoff Ballotti, President and CEO, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “He inspired me early in my career as he has so many others to get more involved in our industry, including the American Hotel & Lodging Association, AAHOA, and the U.S. Travel Association. He is someone I trust and greatly admire.” Kong’s first step toward a lifelong career in hospitality began as a dishwasher and busboy. When he arrived in the United States from Hong Kong as a young adult, like many immigrants before him, he had no money, no job, and no connections to offer support. Despite these challenges, Kong leaned into the values and work ethic instilled by his parents to rise through the ranks of the hospitality industry, culminating in his role as President and CEO of BWH Hotel Group. These values have shaped David Kong into the leader he is today. “David’s legacy is the integrity of a promise, keeping your word and delivering on it,” said Roger Dow, President and CEO, U.S. Travel Association. “He’s a role model for how this industry leads to fulfilling careers, going from the frontline to CEO, as he's done.”Under Kong’s leadership, BWH Hotel Group has evolved into a modern and innovative hotel company. Together with his leadership team, Kong spearheaded a number of initiatives that transformed the hotel brand into the global hospitality powerhouse it is today. “What he has been able to do with Best Western is really create the consistency of the highest level of performance,” added Rogers. “David has created an environment at Best Western that encourages its owners to be their best and to create the best products.” Kong’s achievements at BWH Hotel Group include:- Growing BWH Hotel Group from one to 18 vibrant and exciting brands covering every chain scale segment and every type of accommodation including boutique/lifestyle and extended stay.
- Setting successive records of RevPAR growth from 103 in 2004 to 112.4 in 2021.
- Setting successive records of highest guest and hotel satisfaction ratings.
- Setting new company record of highest EBITDA growth. Company cash reserves and net equity grew over 10-fold since becoming CEO.
- Growing company loyalty program contribution to becoming the third highest in the industry.
- Setting company record of industry awards and accolades.
- AAA Lodging Partner of the Year 12 years in a row
- 2019 J.D. Power Best Upscale Brand (Best Western Premier®)
- 2020 and 2021 J.D. Power Best Economy Brand (SureStay Hotel Group®)
- 2018 Fast Company Top 20 Most Innovative Companies
- TTG Asia Best Midscale Brand 12 years in a row
- 2020 Business Travel News Best Midscale Hotel Brand and Second-Best Upper Midscale Hotel Brand
- Leading unprecedented growth globally.
- Leading acquisition efforts of a hotel company (WorldHotels™ Collection) and PMS provider (AutoClerk®).
- Extending over $65 million in fee rebates to its hoteliers since March 2020.
- Adjusting operating standards and rolled out enhanced cleaning protocols with the launch of its industry-leading the We Care CleanSM program.
- Becoming a prominent industry voice to advocate for the needs of hoteliers across the nation. Kong met with President Trump and government leaders and conducted interviews with many major TV network to cast a light on the hardships of hoteliers and advocate for much-needed federal support.
About BWH Hotel Group®: BWH Hotel Group is a leading, global hospitality network comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels™ Collection, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay Hotel Group®. The global network boasts approximately 4,500 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 18 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. For more information visit bestwestern.com, bestwesterndevelopers.com, worldhotels.com and surestay.com. * Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.