Wingate to double internet advertising
A redesigned Web site, targeted advertising and non-traditional marketing tactics were promised by Wingate Inns International management at a recent conference.
The Web site will offer “improved, cutting-edge functionality” that will make it easier to book reservations,” promised Keri Putera, a senior director of marketing for Wingate.
Hotel guest feedback found that consumers “want more control over their shopping experience,” she said. They also are looking for information they can trust.
She said Wingate this year will nearly double its commitment to paid Web search functionality. In addition, its franchised hotels will be listed on some of the largest search engines.
Online banner ads will run on business-targeted Web sites including CNN.com and CBS Marketwatch.
Non-traditional marketing efforts will include the chain’s relationship with Hallmark Business Expressions, a subsidiary of Hallmark Cards, to create Wingate Celebration cards. These cards are available to Wingate Inn franchises to send to their guests. The cards have also been sent to travel agents.
The brand is also continuing its relationship with Avis that involves free car upgrades.
Wingate Inns International opened its first franchised hotel in 1996. It caters primarily to upscale business travelers.
Report by David Wilkening
David
Vegas’s Billion-Dollar Secrets – What They Don’t Want Tourists to Know
Visit Florida’s New CEO Bryan Griffin Shares His Vision for State Tourism with Graham
Chicago’s Tourism Renaissance: Graham Interviews Kristin Reynolds of Choose Chicago
Graham Talks with Cassandra McCauley of MMGY NextFactor About the Latest Industry Research
Destination International’s Andreas Weissenborn: Research, Advocacy, and Destination Impact
Graham and Don Welsh Discuss the Success of Destinations International’s Annual Conference
Graham and CEO Andre Kiwitz on Ventura Travel’s UK Move and Recruitment for the Role
Brett Laiken and Graham Discuss Florida’s Tourism Momentum and Global Appeal
Graham and Elliot Ferguson on Positioning DC as a Cultural and Inclusive Global Destination
Graham Talks to Fraser Last About His England-to-Ireland Trek for Mental Health Awareness
Kathy Nelson Tells Graham About the Honour of Hosting the World Cup and Kansas City’s Future
Graham McKenzie on Sir Richie Richardson’s Dual Passion for Golf and His Homeland, Antigua
ADS PRO 
Qatar Airways offers flexible payment options for European travellers
Airlines suspend Madagascar services following unrest and army revolt
Phocuswright reveals the world's largest travel markets in volume in 2025
Digital Travel Reporter of the Mirror totally seduced by HotelPlanner AI Travel Agent
Strike action set to cause travel chaos at Brussels airports