"Pfizer's critical selection criteria for an operating partner included experience in the management of urban corporate conference centers, expertise in the management of technology, and most importantly, the ability to conceive and implement entrepreneurial conference and meeting solutions for an industry leader like Pfizer," stated Mr. Cabañas.  "The Benchmark team demonstrated expertise in all areas. We are very pleased to expand our relationship with Pfizer."

The Benchmark - Pfizer relationship extends back to 1997 when Benchmark managed the Thornwood Conference Center of Thornwood, New York, for the pharmaceutical giant.  The relationship took another step forward in 2002 with Pfizer's acquisition of the North Maple Inn, located in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, which the company gained upon merging with Pharmacia, the hotel's previous owner.  Benchmark managed North Maple Inn for Pharmacia.

Mr. Cabañas also announced that the management team at the Pfizer New York City Conference Center will be lead by Tom Murray.  Mr. Murray was Benchmark's former Director of Operations at the original World Trade Institute Conference Center, previously located at One World Trade Center in lower Manhattan, and now reopened in new facilities at 163 William Street in lower Manhattan. 

Mr. Cabañas concluded with, "We are pleased to welcome the Pfizer Conference Center into the Benchmark family, and to expand our presence in the corporate community and the City of New York."

Other corporate conference centers managed by Benchmark Hospitality include the Sun Microsystems Conference Center, located in Santa Clara, California;  The Council House - an exclusive international conference center for SC Johnson, A Family Company, of Racine, Wisconsin; and Wingspread - a private conference center for the Johnson Foundation, and the Wingspread Guest House, also of Racine. 

Benchmark Hospitality, an independent hospitality management company based
in The Woodlands, Texas, operates resorts, conference centers and hotels both domestically and internationally.  For locations of Benchmark Hospitality properties and for additional information, visit Benchmark's Website at www.benchmarkhospitality.com.