Marriott Opens 500th Fairfield Inn

Marriott International, Inc. announced that Fairfield Inn by Marriott opened its 500th hotel in Rogers, Ark., growing to nearly 48,000 rooms in 48 states. Positioned in the lower-moderate lodging segment, Fairfield Inn is one of Marriott's fastest growing brands, opening an average of 33 hotels per year since its launch in 1987. The brand expects to add nearly 25 more hotels by year-end 2003.

"From the very beginning, Fairfield Inn has been popular with customers looking for consistent, quality lodging at an affordable price," said Tim Sheldon, senior vice president brand management, Marriott International. "Fairfield Inn is also equally popular with our franchisees who continue to be strong partners and supporters in the brand's development.

With the opening of the Rogers Fairfield Inn & Suites, Marriott is showcasing its new suite design, which includes an "entertainment wall" featuring a 32" TV and CD stereo system and ergonomic desk chair. Other property enhancements include an in-room coffee maker, hair dryer and second telephone, along with an expanded lobby and an upgraded decor in standard guestrooms.

The 99-room Rogers Fairfield Inn & Suites is owned by FIS Rogers LLC and operated by Inter-Mountain Management, which is headquartered in West Monroe, La. Inter-Mountain Management operates a total of 19 Marriott-branded hotels including Fairfield Inn (7), Residence Inn (7), Courtyard (4), and SpringHill Suites (1).

"We've found that the Marriott name adds tremendous value to our lodging operations," said Dewey Weaver Jr., managing director, Inter-Mountain Management. "Guests look for the consistency, quality and superior service Marriott is known for; and the company's reservations system, sales support and frequent guest program is unmatched."

Future development plans by Marriott International and its Franchise partners call for building Fairfield Inn hotels in several markets, including Charleston, S.C.; Avenel, N.J.; New Orleans, La.; Greensboro, N.C.; and Lexington Park, Md.

Fairfield Inn room rates typically range from $50 to $75. The properties feature large guestrooms with a king-size or two double beds as well as suite rooms at many hotels. A complimentary continental breakfast -- featuring bagels, fresh fruit, pastries, cereal, juices and coffee and tea -- is available each morning in the lobby area. Other amenities include a swimming pool and whirlpool spa; free local phone calls; fax and copy services; phone with data port; large, well-lit work desk; cable TV; iron and ironing board; and a meeting room and fitness room in many locations.

Fairfield Inn recently launched its third wave of TV ads in less than seven months. The ad features celebrity coach Lou Holtz -- current head football coach for the University of South Carolina, and former head coach for the University of Notre Dame. In the spots, Holtz shares personal advice with business travelers about how to get the most out of their trip and gain a competitive edge. The ad supports the "Your Marriott Awaits" campaign and spotlights Fairfield Inn's participation in a special Marriott Rewards® offer -- make three separate stays, earn two free weekend nights and silver elite level status. The ads are airing on most major network and cable stations.

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, INC., a leading worldwide hospitality company celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2002, has over 2,600 operating units in the United States and 64 other countries and territories. Marriott International operates and Franchises hotels under the Marriott, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Courtyard, TownePlace Suites, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites and Ramada International brand names; develops and operates vacation ownership resorts under the Marriott Vacation Club International, Horizons, The Ritz-Carlton Club and Marriott Grand Residence Club brands; operates Marriott Executive Apartments; provides furnished corporate housing through its Marriott ExecuStay division; and operates conference centers. Other Marriott businesses include senior living communities and services, and wholesale food distribution. The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and has approximately 144,000 employees. In fiscal year 2001, Marriott International reported systemwide sales of $20 billion.