Continuing its expansion strategy through the year, Ascend Hotel Collection is growing its presence in key markets, having awarded six new agreements and adding seven new properties across the U.S. in Q2 2023.
Ascend, an upscale soft brand by Choice Hotels International, Inc., comprises independent hotels globally.
The recent signings include:
- Three Bears Resort in Warren, Wis. — This is the second ascend hotel to be developed by S&L Hospitality, following The Harborview in Port Washington, Wis., and the sixth Choice property under management by the group.
- A 44-key property in Red River, N.M.
- The Bradford Hotel in Springfield, Mo. — This 49-room hotel in the Medical Mile is developed by Elliot Lodging, joining five more Choice hotels.
- La Créole Inn & Suites in Lafayette, La. — The new-built hotel was developed by Pride Opportunity Developers.
- Black Bear Inn in Orono, Maine — The 68-room hotel is the latest addition by New England Hospitality to the Collection.
Ascend also opened hotels across unique locations. These are:
- Graystone Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection in Boone, N.C. — Located amid the Blue Ridge Mountains, the 101-key hotel features an indoor pool, bonfire pits and EV charging stations.
- CityFlats Hotel – Grand Rapids, Ascend Hotel Collection in Grand Rapids, Mich. and CityFlats Hotel – Port Huron, Ascend Hotel Collection in Port Huron, Mich. — Located in the downtown areas of Grand Rapids and Port Huron, these two CityFlats properties opened under Ascend. Using eco-friendly designs, the hotel features reclaimed wood, plastics and glass, along with cork flooring and locally-sourced furniture.
- The Hotel Saratoga, Ascend Hotel Collection in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. — Located close to downtown Saratoga Springs, the hotel offers a fitness center, an outdoor pool and meeting rooms.
- Inn on Maritime Bay, Ascend Hotel Collection in Manitowoc, Wis. — Located along the shores of Lake Michigan and the mouth of the Manitowoc River, the hotel comprises 109 rooms with water views and upscale amenities like an indoor heated pool, spa and an on-site lounge.
- The Gibson, Ascend Hotel Collection in Great Falls, Mont. — The 44-room boutique hotel is named after Paris Gibson, the founder of the Great Falls, Mont. The hotel includes a fitness center and a business center.
Besides adding more franchisees to the Ascend collection, existing Choice owners have also been expanding their portfolio with Ascend and other brands by Choice, said Mark Shalala, senior vice president, franchise development, upscale brands, Choice Hotels.
“Since the Collection’s inception 15 years ago, we’ve been committed to helping owners run profitable businesses while maintaining operational independence, providing unmatched support from Choice’s industry-leading technology and robust distribution platform,” Shalala said.
Choice Privileges, Choice’s loyalty program, will support these new properties.
Presently, Ascend has a collection of 360 independent, historic and boutique hotels and resorts worldwide, with more in the pipeline.