Choice Hotels Intl Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH) has celebrated the opening of its 300th WoodSpring Suites hotel in Gurnee, Illinois. This milestone underscores the brand's fast-paced expansion within the extended stay segment, which comprises over 300 locations in 38 states and an additional 100 in development. WoodSpring's growth reflects the increasing demand for budget-friendly, long-term accommodations, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a strong pipeline and multiple franchise agreements, Choice Hotels is poised for further growth, enhancing value for investors and franchisees.

Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH) announced the addition of four new properties to its Ascend Hotel Collection, enhancing its global portfolio of independent hotels. The new locations are: Haywood Park Hotel (Asheville, NC), Elevate Hotel at Sierra Blanca Ruidoso (Ruidoso, NM), The Inn at Leonardtown (Leonardtown, MD), and The Leo Collection Detroit (Lincoln Park, MI). These hotels emphasize unique experiences and outdoor adventures, aiming to attract travelers seeking immersive stays. The expansion aligns with the brand's growth strategy nearing 400 unique hotels worldwide, all participating in the Commitment to Clean initiative.

Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH) reported significant growth in its upscale brands, Ascend Hotel Collection and Cambria Hotels, achieving a 24% increase in domestic room count year-over-year. In the first half of 2021, Ascend gained a RevPAR share of 12 percentage points compared to local competitors, while Cambria led with a 15 percentage point gain. Both brands are expanding, adding new locations in diverse markets. The success reflects a strategic focus on high-revenue segments, bolstered by favorable travel trends as Americans return to domestic destinations.

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) has launched the "Stay More. Earn More." promotion for its Choice Privileges loyalty program. From now until October 31, members can earn bonuses of 2,000 points for two-night stays and 5,000 points for three nights or longer. This initiative follows their successful 50 Million Member Sweepstakes. Jamie Russo, VP of loyalty programs, emphasizes its aim to enhance travelers' experiences by offering more rewards. Members must register for the promotion to participate, enhancing the program's appeal as Choice Hotels continues to focus on customer engagement.

Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH) announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.225 per share, payable on October 15, 2021, to stockholders of record as of October 1, 2021. This decision reflects the company’s robust financial position and commitment to returning value to shareholders amidst its extensive portfolio of over 7,100 hotels worldwide. The company continues to enhance its offerings through the award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty program, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH) has relaunched its Your Community, Your Choice. Local Business Grant Program, initially started in 2019, doubling both the financial contribution to $50,000 and the number of recipients to support franchisees' local charity efforts. Each of the 10 awarded franchisees will receive $5,000 grants to benefit local communities through various initiatives, including supporting those affected by COVID-19 and promoting sustainability. Applications are open until Sept. 24, 2021, with winners announced on Oct. 21, 2021.

Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH) reported Q2 2021 results, showing a RevPAR decrease of 1.1% versus Q2 2019, outperforming the industry by 20 percentage points. Notable highlights include a 15% increase in net income to $85.9 million and a 32% rise in franchise agreements year-to-date. As of July 2021, RevPAR improved by approximately 15% compared to July 2019, with occupancy levels at 70%. The total available liquidity stands at $908 million, reinforcing a strong balance sheet. The company reinstated dividends and plans to return about $25 million to shareholders in 2021.

Cambria Hotels, part of Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH), has opened its newest location in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, marking its fifth hotel in the state. The Cambria Hotel Fort Lauderdale Beach features upscale amenities, including a rooftop observation deck and meeting spaces. The opening ceremony included a $3,000 donation to Broward College. With nearly 60 Cambria hotels active nationwide, this launch aims to cater to the growing travel demand in Florida, allowing guests to enjoy a blend of work and leisure.