Best Western Hotels & Resorts marked the arrival of its boutique hotel concept, Vīb, with a grand opening celebration at its first U.S. property in Springfield, Missouri. Local dignitaries, Best Western executives and members of Elliott Lodging joined community VIPs for an exciting and memorable evening celebrating the highly-anticipated debut of this innovative, traveler-centric brand in the U.S. market. A local musician performed at the event, exemplifying the vibrant atmosphere and localized experiences guests can expect from the Vīb brand.
"We are excited to mark the arrival of our first Vīb brand in the United States," said David Kong, President and CEO for Best Western Hotels & Resorts. "Vīb was conceived to signal that today's Best Western is a contemporary and relevant brand, which offers a comprehensive portfolio of options that cater to today's travelers. Delivering an exciting and one-of-a-kind experience, Vīb Springfield will enrich the community and today's Best Western."
The 92-room Vīb Springfield features a combination of contemporary design and affordable style, with social engagement at the center of the experience. With a focus on convenience and technology geared towards young professionals, the hotel features zones for work and play stocked with amenities including ample USB and power ports - supported with free wireless internet in the lobby and guestrooms, a grab-n-go station, a 24/7 sundries shop, premium food and coffee from one of the town's best-known fusion restaurants – Wheelhouse – eight gaming stations, a 24/7 fitness center, a 24/7 electronic tech shop, a cozy fireplace lounge and a social Mezzanine. The hotel lobby is also home to an upscale bar featuring fruit-infused signature cocktails created with Vīb guests in mind. All of these unique amenities were on display during the grand opening event.
"Best Western has evolved significantly in recent years, expanding our portfolio from one brand to 11, to deliver the hotel offerings and unique experiences today's sophisticated travelers and developers expect," said Ron Pohl, Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer for Best Western Hotels & Resorts. "The introduction of Vīb was an integral part of Best Western's evolution, offering a boutique concept designed for the upscale hotel segment and filling a niche in today's competitive marketplace."
"We are proud to have partnered with Gordon Elliott, a highly respected and long-standing member of the Best Western brand, to develop our first Vīb hotel in the U.S. We know his hotel will deliver the exceptional experience and service that makes the Vīb brand stand out among the rest," continued Pohl.
Located in the heart of its hometown, Vīb Springfield is just minutes from popular attractions including Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, Bass Pro Shop, Discovery Center of Springfield, Gillioz Theatre, Hammons Field, and Park Central Square. The Springfield-Branson National Airport is just eleven miles away, and the property is surrounded by the city's best shops, dining venues, bars, lounges and entertainment venues.
"We are thrilled to open the first Vīb in the United States and to invite travelers to experience this very unique product," said Gordon Elliott of Elliott Lodging. "As a member of the Best Western brand for more than two decades, I am proud to have experienced the brand's transformation firsthand, and to be the first to bring this vibrant brand to life in the heart of Springfield."
"Springfield is on the move, with new restaurants and attractions opening weekly and has become a hotspot for business travelers," continued Elliott. "With fresh, stylish accommodations and modern amenities that foster social engagement, Vīb Springfield is a perfect fit for this exciting market."
Vīb's thriving pipeline now includes numerous properties in exciting markets from Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas and Miami to Los Angeles, San Diego, Staten Island, Pittsburgh and New Orleans.