Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE:CHH) has finalized an agreement with The Brittano Group, Inc. to develop a new member of the Ascend Hotel Collection in South Boston, Virginia: The Rook Hotels. This agreement marks the first Ascend hotel awarded through the company's emerging markets franchise development program in 2022, as Choice advances its longstanding commitment to increase diversity across the hospitality industry.
To commemorate the occasion and the Ascend Hotel Collection's continued growth into travelers' favorite vacation destinations, Choice Hotels executives and representatives from the hotel's ownership team, including co-CEO's Julian Brittano and Karie Brittano, convened for an official signing ceremony at Choice's headquarters in Rockville, Maryland at the end of last year.
Expected to debut in summer 2024, The Rook at South Boston, a four-story, 37-room boutique property will feature distinct design and modern amenities, including a rooftop bar, full-service restaurant and bar, and event center. Ideally situated at 327 Main Street in the heart of South Boston's tree-lined historic downtown district, The Rook at South Boston will provide guests with access to the many attractions that reflect this rich tradition, including local restaurants, shops and art galleries. Formerly known as Boyd's Ferry, Virginia's South Boston community is best known for its iconic Victorian architecture and small-town charm. The building, originally built in 1929, is also within driving distance to nearby Roanoke and Richmond, Virginia, making it an ideal weekend getaway.
"Advancing opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry remains a top priority for Choice," said John Lancaster, vice president, emerging markets, franchise development and owner relationships, Choice Hotels International. "Exactly 20 years ago, Choice became the first hotel company with a team dedicated exclusively to growing a diverse franchisee base and today we are proud to have awarded over 340 franchise agreements to under-represented minorities and seasoned entrepreneurs since the program started. We look forward to working with The Brittano Group, Inc. as we celebrate another milestone for this important initiative with the first Ascend hotel being developed through this one-of-a-kind program."
The Rook Hotels is owned by accomplished actor, hotelier and social activist, Julian Brittano, and his wife, Karie Brittano. Julian is known for beginning his acting career as a co-star to Oprah Winfrey in the Oprah Winfrey Network's hit series, "Greenleaf." Karie has more than a decade of business development experience and has held a Class A CIC General Contractor's License since 2019. The Brittano's originally acquired the historic hotel from the town of South Boston earlier last year for $11 million before entering into a franchise agreement with Choice Hotels. By owning this hotel, the Brittano's are among less than 1% of Black hoteliers globally.
Karie Brittano added about The Rook Hotels: "It's one of the largest properties in downtown South Boston and its restoration is expected to spark a revival; to become a pillar for the community's revitalization. It's where old-world meets its stunning new world design, paying homage to the South Boston Speedway just six miles away and Virginia's International Raceway."
There are over 330 Ascend Hotel Collection properties worldwide, open and in development as of September 30, 2022. In the coming months, additional hotels are scheduled to open in popular destinations including Orlando, Florida; Sutter Creek, California; Lake Charles, Louisiana and Puerto Rico.