Choice Hotels Canada Achieves Historic Growth
On April 22, 2026, Choice Hotels International, a renowned name in the lodging industry, announced remarkable growth within its Canadian operations, marking the best first quarter performance in over a decade. This impressive result follows a strategic transition to a direct franchising model after the company’s acquisition last year, signifying a new era for the brand in Canada.
Strong Performance Metrics
The statistics speak volumes about the success achieved:
- - Net Room Growth: The company reported a year-over-year increase of 3.4% in net room growth, reaching the highest volume of hotel openings for any first quarter since 2010.
- - Revenue Increase: A staggering 20% rise in revenue year-over-year showcases the effective execution of business strategies.
- - RevPAR Growth: Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) saw a notable improvement of 5.2% year-over-year, measured on a currency-neutral basis, driven by increased occupancy along with higher average daily rates (ADR).
- - Pipeline Expansion: The pipeline for future hotel rooms expanded by 55% compared to the previous year, highlighting sustained development efforts and the benefits of an expanded portfolio.
- - Guest Satisfaction: Ongoing improvements in guest satisfaction metrics indicated a growing likelihood-to-recommend score across the established system.
Executive Insights
Pat Pacious, the President and CEO of Choice Hotels International, expressed pride in the results achieved in Canada. He stated, “The outstanding performance we’re achieving in Canada reflects our confidence in this market and the strong execution of our team and franchisees driving it forward.” This sentiment captures the essence of a thriving business environment that can serve as a model for continued success and growth.
Brian Leon, the CEO of Choice Hotels Canada, also shared his pride in the team's collaborative effort during this transformational period. He emphasized that the current results are a testament to the hard work and commitment displayed by his team, franchisees, and the robust support from Choice Hotels International.
Future Directions
The strong start to the year is not only a validation of Choice Hotels' shift to a more direct business model but also lays the groundwork for several strategic priorities moving forward. The company aims to:
- - Enhance hotel performance.
- - Expand its presence in the upscale and extended stay markets.
- - Build on a strong development pipeline that supports accelerated growth nationwide.
The strong momentum established early in 2026 has given both the management and franchise owners a significant advantage in the competitive landscape of the Canadian hospitality market. This exemplary growth story reflects the potential for continued expansion and success across the region.
For travelers, this means access to a wider range of quality accommodations and improved service standards. As Choice Hotels positions itself for the future, guests can look forward to even more rewarding stays across Canada.
About Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels International, Inc. is among the largest lodging franchisors globally, boasting over 7,500 hotels and more than 650,000 rooms in 50 countries. With a diverse portfolio of 22 brands catering to various traveler needs, Choice Hotels is well-placed to drive value for guests and franchise owners alike. Their rewards program, Choice Privileges, further enhances the travel experience by offering personalized benefits and perks to members.
In conclusion, the future looks bright for Choice Hotels in Canada, as they continue to build upon their successes and look for ways to improve both guest experience and franchisee satisfaction.