Wyndham Hotels & Resorts dives headfirst into the upscale extended stay market through a strategic partnership with industry innovator WaterWalk. This move expands Wyndham’s already robust portfolio, adding 11 hotels and over 1,500 rooms under the newly minted WaterWalk Extended Stay by Wyndham brand. As Wyndham’s 25th brand, WaterWalk complements its existing economy and midscale extended stay offerings, catering to guests seeking a home-like atmosphere with a touch of luxury.
Capitalizing on Soaring Demand
The extended stay segment has witnessed a surge in guest demand in recent years. Wyndham acknowledges this trend, recognizing the potential in the market. Chip Ohlsson, Chief Development Officer at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, emphasizes this by stating, “Our vision is to offer the industry’s most robust portfolio of extended stay brands. The addition of WaterWalk marks an important step in that direction, ensuring we have an offering in every segment for every owner and guest.”
WaterWalk: A Legacy of Innovation
Founded by the visionary Jack DeBoer, a pioneer in the extended-stay segment, WaterWalk embodies a legacy of innovation. DeBoer’s fingerprints are on some of the industry’s most recognizable brands, including Residence Inn and Candlewood Suites. Leveraging his extensive experience, DeBoer established WaterWalk in 2014, aiming to redefine the extended stay experience. Today, his granddaughter, Mimi Oliver, CEO of WaterWalk, carries forward his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to guest satisfaction.
LIVE|STAY: A Flexible Approach to Extended Stays
WaterWalk distinguishes itself with its unique LIVE|STAY model. This innovative approach caters to diverse guest preferences. STAY units come fully furnished, ideal for guests seeking a traditional, residential-style extended stay. For those who prefer to personalize their space, unfurnished LIVE units offer the flexibility to create a long-term haven that feels like home. This adaptability is a strategic strength, allowing WaterWalk properties to adjust to market fluctuations and guest needs, ultimately benefiting owners, operators, and guests alike.
WaterWalk’s current portfolio boasts 11 hotels across the U.S. Newer properties showcase the brand’s Gen 2.0 prototype, which prioritizes efficient design and reduced operating costs, maximizing profits and returns for owners.
Mimi Oliver on Joining the Wyndham Family
“WaterWalk’s success is built on decades of extended-stay expertise combined with a relentless pursuit of innovation and exceptional guest experiences,” says Mimi Oliver, CEO of WaterWalk. “We believe WaterWalk is our best brand yet, and by joining the Wyndham portfolio, we enter a new chapter of growth and efficiency. The Wyndham Advantage will be a significant asset, propelling us towards enhanced performance.”
A Portfolio Primed for Growth
With the addition of WaterWalk, Wyndham now boasts a powerful trio of extended stay brands: WaterWalk Extended Stay by Wyndham, ECHO SuitesSM Extended Stay by Wyndham, and Hawthorn® Extended Stay by Wyndham. Launched in 2022, ECHO Suites has a flourishing development pipeline with over 265 economy new construction hotels, several nearing completion. Hawthorn experienced a 30% surge in its midscale conversion and new construction development pipeline in 2023.
Collectively, these three brands cater to a wide range of extended-stay guests, from construction workers on temporary assignments to digital nomads seeking a work-life blend while traveling. Furthermore, WaterWalk’s inclusion strengthens Wyndham’s position to capitalize on the estimated $3.3 billion opportunity in additional room revenue generated by infrastructure spending in the U.S.
Wyndham Advantage: Unlocking Growth Potential
By joining Wyndham, WaterWalk hotels gain access to the “Wyndham Advantage” – a comprehensive suite of resources that includes world-class marketing, distribution channels, and the backing of the world’s largest hotel franchisor. Over the past five years, Wyndham has invested substantially in innovative technologies to streamline operations and boost owner profitability. These solutions include next-generation property and revenue management systems, mobile check-in and checkout options, and automated OTA reconciliation – just to name a few. Additionally, owners benefit from Wyndham Rewards, the world’s leading hotel loyalty program, boasting over 106 million enrolled members globally. Nearly half of all U.S. check-ins at Wyndham properties are attributed to Wyndham Rewards members, highlighting the program’s effectiveness in driving guest traffic.
