BWH Hotels Annual Convention Celebrates Growth, Innovation and Bold Future

BWH Hotels Annual Convention: A Highlight in Hospitality Progress

In a display of unyielding ambition and camaraderie, BWH Hotels, which encompasses brands such as WorldHotels™, Best Western®, and SureStay® Hotels, successfully conducted its annual convention, gathering over 3,000 attendees in Seattle under the theme 'Welcome Begins Here.' This gathering marked a pivotal moment for the hospitality giant as they set forth their vision to become the world's most welcoming brand in the industry.

President and CEO, Larry Cuculic, passionately emphasized the essence of the convention, proclaiming, "This week, we made a bold declaration we will be the most welcoming hospitality brand in the world. 'Welcome Begins Here' is more than our convention theme; it is the new foundation for our global transformation. Across every hotel, our shared commitment is to deliver memorable, locally inspired experiences that make every guest feel at home."

A Year of Remarkable Achievements

The BWH journey has been nothing short of remarkable, as evidenced by their impressive $8.5 billion revenue generated in the past year. With a surge in bookings through the Best Western To Go® app—a 25% increase year-over-year—and a RevPAR Index standing at 108, which surpasses industry benchmarks, the company is clearly on the path of steady progress. Furthermore, the Best Western Rewards® program has flourished, now boasting over 64 million members. Uniquely, points in this program never expire, ensuring continued loyalty and engagement from customers.

Innovations to Transform Customer Journeys

During the convention, attendees were treated to an exclusive preview of the revamped BestWestern.com website and mobile app, set for launch in 2026. This new platform promises personalized recommendations and optimized content through the use of artificial intelligence, tailored experiences for diverse travelers, and enhanced interactions across global markets.

In terms of operational efficiency, the company announced the introduction of AutoClerk® Atlas, an innovative property management system developed in collaboration with HotelKey. This state-of-the-art system is designed to elevate the guest experience and improve operational workflows for hotel teams, solidifying a tech-forward approach to hospitality.

Strategic Partnerships and Global Expansion

BWH Hotels is not just focused on internal growth; they are also forging strategic partnerships to maximize their presence on the international stage. As part of preparations for the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026, Best Western Hotels & Resorts has secured an exclusive partnership with Tripadvisor® for the 'Chasing the Cup' campaign, which will help travelers discover nearby accommodations during the event.

Additionally, WorldHotels has expanded significantly in 2025, welcoming new properties like the Van der Valk Plaza Beach Resort Bonaire and integrating wellness concepts into their luxury offerings with the Soul Spring Sanctuary's recent addition. They are on track to reach a notable 250 properties by the end of 2026.

The company also revealed a commitment to independent developers, signing over 130 new deals across their North American portfolio with their Collections brands now accounting for a substantial portion of new developments. The Aiden® boutique brand is experiencing a notable rise, with projects launching in cities including Kansas City, Toronto, and Dallas, among others.

Internationally, BWH Hotels signed over 300 deals this year alone, aligning their efforts with the progressive Vision 2030 in Saudi Arabia and expanding their footprint in Asia with new ventures in India, South Korea, and Vietnam. Latin America is anticipated to have a banner year, with an unprecedented number of over 20 deals finalized.

Supporting the Industry's Future

Launching December 1, 2025, the new Liability Insurance Program developed in partnership with Willis Towers Watson® and CNA® aims to provide the hospitality sector's first comprehensive and affordable liability coverage. This effort is a stepping stone in assisting hoteliers to secure their assets and manage expenses effectively moving forward.

The commitment from BWH Hotels towards creating diversified opportunities for developers and guests alike reflects their robust growth strategy against the backdrop of ever-evolving hospitality needs. Each of their brands presents distinctive offerings to suit various market preferences.

For further inquiries or to explore development opportunities, visit development.bwhhotels.com

About BWH Hotels

BWH Hotels is a preeminent global hospitality enterprise consisting of award-winning brands including WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay® Hotels. With nearly 4,300 hotels located in over 100 countries, they cater to a diverse demographic, providing exceptional services across a spectrum from budget to luxury options. For more information, please visit bwhhotels.com