US: Starwood Capital has launched the Uptown Suites extend stay brand to operate alongside its existing InTown Suites flag.
Uptown Suites is described as “a nationwide brand of upscale, economy-priced extended-stay suites for families, business travellers and long-term visitors”.
Uptown Suites will be managed by InTown Suites, an owner-operator of extended-stay properties in 188 locations in 22 states with more than 24,000 rooms.
“We are thrilled to launch Uptown Suites as we deepen and expand our commitment to provide an extended-stay experience for our guests that has all the comforts of home,” said Jon Pertchik, InTown Suites CEO. “Demand for value-oriented extended-stay lodging continues to rise and guests are increasingly seeking a hospitality experience that is pedestrian-friendly and walkable, with high-quality amenities and warm customer service. Uptown Suites aims to transform the economy extended-stay experience for our guests.”
Uptown Suites properties will feature “upscale amenities for guests on an economy budget”, including lobbies furnished with curved televisions and large fireplaces, full kitchens with quartz countertops, electric vehicle charging stations, and apartment-like studio suites with high-speed wireless internet connections, high-definition smart televisions and Keurig coffee machines.
The first Uptown Suites location has opened in Concord, North Carolina, and the company anticipates that future properties will primarily be newly built facilities that are walkable to dining, retail and entertainment opportunities for guests. Uptown Suites locations will be selected “for their proximity to great cities or in central locations in smaller markets, and expansion will be concentrated in regions with strong job growth and forecast population growth”.
More than 10 Uptown Suites properties are scheduled to open by 2019, including properties in Colorado, Florida, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia, among other states.</p
