Wingate Debuts Cordless Phones

<H1> Wingate Debuts Cordless Phones</H1><I>Parsippany, N.J. </I>- Wingate Inn, the first hotel chain to feature cordless phones in every room, announced their debut this month in Sevierville, Tenn., and Alpharetta, Ga.

Devised for business travelers by franchise giant HFS Inc., the midpriced chain also offers cost-free cellular phones at the front desk that forward calls from the guestroom.

"You won't be captive in your room," said president and chief operating officer Fred Mosser.

The all-new-construction brand already has inked more than 100 franchise agreements, with 70 slated to open by the end of next year.

"I don't believe this record growth has ever been achieved in the history of the lodging industry," said Mosser, a 25-year industry veteran. "I can't recall a single brand that has been launched as rapidly as Wingate Inn."

Rooms also feature a second, two-line speakerphone, voicemail, large desk with executive swivel chair, extra lighting, outlet and dataport in the base of the desk lamp, in-room coffeemaker and iron, and a separate sitting area.

Priced at $60 to $85 to target Hampton and Courtyard habitu&eacute;s, the hotels include local calls, long-distance access, copying, faxing, printing, and breakfast on the house.

Averaging 100 rooms, properties also will feature touch-screen checkin-checkout machines, fitness centers and meeting rooms.