�For the past few years, we have emphasized new construction,� said Dan Daniele, president Baymont Franchises International  �Moving forward, we intend to selectively use conversions to accelerate our growth.

�Our conversion package is adaptable to a wide array of hotel brands,� he noted.  �Over the past several years, 10 properties from other hotel brands have successfully converted to the Baymont brand, but we have not formally pursued conversions as a separate growth opportunity.  We now are targeting 10 to 15 percent of our growth to come from conversions.�

Daniele said that Baymont seeks hotels that are 5 to 10 years old with more than 60 rooms.  Room size must be a minimum of 12 feet by 17 feet, and bathrooms must include a tub/shower.  Properties must have interior corridors, except certain beach locations, be ADA-compliant and have appropriate life safety equipment.  Hotels with more than two stories must provide elevator service.

Hotels must be architecturally adaptable to either Baymont�s Landmark or Sunrise prototypes.  The company provides cost-effective architectural and engineering plans and specifications to assist owners.  A typical conversion requires three to nine months, depending on remodeling needs.

�As operators ourselves, Baymont understands the importance of quality design and appearance,� said Daniele.  �Our range of conversion services includes extensive assistance in the areas of design, marketing and training.�

Properties recently converted to the Baymont Inns & Suites brand include, Nashville, Tenn., Waupaca, Wis., Joplin, Mo., and Lexington, Ky.  Properties currently undergoing conversion include Lake Ozark, Mo., Lawrence, Kan and North Aurora, Ill. 

Baymont Inns & Suites is owned, operated and franchised by the Milwaukee - based Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), which comprises four divisions: mid-market, limited-service lodging, hotels/resorts, movie theaters and restaurants.  In addition to more than 180 owned or franchised Baymont Inns & Suites, The Marcus Corporation operates seven Woodfield Suites in Illinois, Wisconsin, Colorado, Ohio and Texas, and  operates hotels and/or resorts in Wisconsin, California, Minnesota and Missouri.  

Certain matters discussed in this press release are "forward-looking statements" intended to qualify for the safe harbors from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.