US hotel giant Choice Hotels has revealed plans to grow its Clarion brand throughout the UK and Europe.
The company has signed a deal with Irish developer Kasterlee Limited to launch at least 16 new four star Clarion Hotel franchises in Europe, including one in London and others in Italy, Germany and Russia.
Kasterlee Limited managing director Frankie Whelehan said: “We’ve had great success with the Clarion brand in Ireland, and we are confident that this brand will be very well-received by both consumers and hotel developers in the United Kingdom, Germany and Russia. We are now engaged in reviewing a number of sites in prominent cities that would represent great markets for the Clarion brand.”
Choice Hotels director of sales Brian Garvan said the company, which also comprises the Comfort, Quality and Sleep Inn brands, was in a good position to weather the economic downturn.
“We’re seeing corporate budgets tightening and travellers opting for value hotels.The market is strong for us at the moment.” he said.
Choice Hotels is offering 20% off stays from December 1 to February 28 2009 on 135 participating hotels in Europe, bookable through the GDS.