Choice Hotels International reported
year-over-year gains in both occupancy and average daily rate during the first
quarter. Occupancy increased 100 basis points to 56.1 percent, while ADR rose
1.9 percent to $78.41. As of
March 31, the company had 38 new-construction properties and 68 conversion
hotels in its pipeline. Choice anticipates opening 56 new Comfort brand
properties this year, following the recent refresh of Comfort Suites and
Comfort Inn. Net income grew 36 percent to $28.7 million for the quarter, aided
by an 11 percent reduction in total operating expenses.