Best Western Hotels & Resorts’ (BWHR) board of directors and executive team have implemented several measures to provide relief for its hoteliers amid the Covid-19 downturn.
These measures, which will last through May 2020, include waiving one-half of monthly fees; waiving one-half of property revenue management fees; reducing Best Western Rewards (BWR) loyalty point fees charged to members by one-half without lowering points awarded to loyalty programme participants; increasing by 50 per cent hotel redemption compensation for BWR loyalty guest stays; and completely waiving BWHR co-op marketing fees.
Recognising Covid-19’s debilitating impact on hotel revenue and the immediate need to conserve capital, BWHR is delaying certain fees until November. The company will also offer extensions to its members related to its various programmes.
As well, the company’s board of directors and executive team has voluntarily reduced their compensation by 20 per cent.
David Kong, president and CEO, BWHR, said: “The impact of this global pandemic has been devastating to the livelihood of our hoteliers, their families, and the employees who depend on them. At BWHR, we are truly a family that stands together, shoulder to shoulder, during a time of crisis. In coming together, not only will BWHR weather this storm, but our nation and industry will emerge stronger than ever.”
BWHR has also extended support to its guests by protecting the elite status of its BWR members. All BWR members worldwide have been granted elite status extension through January 2022 without needing to fulfil the necessary qualifications. Status will be maintained for all members regardless of their current tier, ensuring both new and veteran members are protected at this time.
Additionally, BWHR has amended its cancellation policy to afford more flexibility to those whose travel plans may have been impacted by Covid-19. Effective through April 30, 2020, guests with existing reservations for any future travel date may cancel with 24 hours’ notice for a full refund.
