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  AAA Official Appointment Program Adds 
Baymont Inns & Suites

Hotel chain benefits from increased market exposure, 
guests benefit from discounted rates

MILWAUKEE (June11, 2001) � Baymont Inns & Suites is pleased to announce its recent Official Appointment with AAA.  This means increased market exposure for the Baymont brand as well as excellent benefits for the chain�s AAA-member guests.

�We are pleased to align ourselves with AAA who is recognized as a leading advocate of safety and security for travelers,� said Jim Abrahamson, Baymont Inns & Suites president and chief operating officer.  �This Official Appointment signifies that our hotels meet the strict standards set forth by AAA � providing our guests comfort in knowing they�ve selected reliable lodging.�
 

For Baymont, the Official Appointment designation means properties are recognized as �AAA member friendly� and allows the chain to use the AAA logo and diamond rating graphics in advertising, display signage, and other promotional materials.  It also means the chain will benefit from enhanced listings in the TourBook and on aaa.com. 

�We are excited to add Baymont Inns & Suites to our Official Appointment Program, naming them as hotels where we recommend our members stay,� said Shirley Cortese, manager of the AAA Official Appointment Program.  �Seventy-nine percent of our TourBook users are more likely to select lodgings designated as Official Appointment properties.�

Seventy percent of AAA members indicate that a discount positively influences their lodging decisions.  That�s why, in addition to providing peace of mind of staying at a high-quality hotel, the Official Appointment designation also means members are eligible for a 10 percent discount on room rates.  And, now through December 31, 2001, AAA members will enjoy a 20 percent discount at participating Baymont Inns & Suites locations.

In addition to its increased recognition with AAA, Baymont recently was honored with the �Best Hotel Value Award� from Entrepreneur Magazine and recognized in Business Travel News� 2001 Top U.S. Hotel Chain Survey.  These awards highlight Baymont�s commitment to value through unexpected amenities and services for an attractive mid-level price.

As North America�s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides its 44 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services.  Since its founding in 1902, AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Local AAA club websites can be visited at www.aaa.com.

Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., Baymont Inns & Suites is a mid-priced lodging chain recognized for its high-quality amenities, excellent service and attractive rates.  Baymont Inns & Suites operates or franchises more than 180 locations in 32 states nationwide. 

AAA's Diamond Rating

A property to be listed by AAA, must satisfy a set of minimum standards that reflect the basic lodging needs AAA members have identified. If a property meets those requirements,  it is assigned a diamond rating reflecting the overall quality of the establishment. The ratings range from one to five diamonds and reflect the physical and service standards typically found at each diamond level.

Lodgings with a one diamond rating provide good but modest accommodations. Establishments are functional, emphasizing clean and comfortable rooms. They must meet the basic needs of privacy  and cleanliness. Rates are generally economical. 

The two diamond lodging maintains the attributes offered at the one diamond level, while showing noticeable enhancements in decor and/or quality of furnishings. They may be recently constructed or  older properties, both targeting the needs of a budget-oriented traveler. 

Establishments rated three diamond offer a degree of sophistication. Additional amenities, services  and facilities may be offered. There is a marked upgrade in services and comfort. 

Excellent properties displaying a high level of service and hospitality are given a four diamond rating. These properties offer a wide variety of amenities and upscale facilities - inside the room, on the grounds and in the public areas. 

Lodgings awarded five diamonds are renowned. They exhibit an exceptionally high degree of service; striking, luxurious facilities; and many extra amenities. Guest services are executed and presented in a flawless manner. The guest will be pampered by a very professional, attentive staff. The facilities and operation help set the standards in hospitality and service. 

A few properties are listed without a rating. They were either under construction or undergoing such a substantial renovation at press time that it was impossible to assign an accurate rating. In addition, an "FYI" rating indicates a property that has not been inspected or does not meet the minimum listing requirements. The property is listed as a member service only. 

AAA Official Appointments

Lodgings approved by AAA are eligible for our Official Appointment Program, which permits the display and advertising of the AAA emblem. Official Appointment properties have shown a special  interest in serving AAA members. This helps our members find accommodations on which they can depend. 

Baymont Inns & Suites is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS).  Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., The Marcus Corporation is comprised of three divisions: limited-service lodging, hotels/resorts and movie theatres.  For more information visit the company�s Web site at www.marcuscorp.com.

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Contact:
Erika Batzko, 
Laughlin/Constable PR
 414/270-7277
[email protected]
www.marcuscorp.com


 
Also See Ozark Inns, LLC, a Missouri Investment Firm, Rehabilitating a Former Howard Johnson Into a Baymont Inn & Suites / Jan 2001 


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