Chicago’s Ritz-Carlton to become part of portfolio: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Co. announced that the Ritz-Carlton Chicago (A Four Seasons Hotel) will become a full participant in the Ritz-Carlton hotel portfolio and all of its programs. Since its opening in 1975, the hotel had been using the Ritz-Carlton name under a license agreement with a predecessor of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Co., which by its terms did not provide for full integration into the Ritz-Carlton system.
Read more at Marriott’s website
FRHI expands in Egypt: FRHI Hotels & Resorts will develop two new hotel projects in Egypt. Fairmont Soma Bay and Switssotel Katameyah are expected to open before 2020.
Possible auction for Mandarin Oriental, Boston: An Irish government entity is asking a bankruptcy judge to approve a live auction of the Mandarin Oriental, Boston. The potential sale is part of a long-running dissolution of Anglo Irish Bank Corp., which held a controlling interest in the property.
Avani to debut in Australia: Minor Hotel Group will launch Avani Hotel and Avani Residences in Perth, Australia. The properties mark Avani brand’s debut in Australia.
Omni to partner with Atlanta Braves: The Atlanta Braves and Omni Hotels and Resorts are planning to announce a deal for a hotel near the team’s new stadium.
Read more at the Atlanta Journal Constitution
Excellence to open in Punta Cana: Excellence Group Luxury Hotels & Resorts will begin construction of its second property in Punta Cana. Excellence El Carmen Resort is scheduled to open in 2016.
Value Place changes name: Effective immediately, Value Place changed its name to WoodSpring Suites. Additionally, it is developing a brand extension with a more enhanced offering called WoodSpring Suites Signature, which is designed to appeal to less price-sensitive guests.
Read more in the Wichita Business Journal