One of the first new-build Holiday Inn Express properties in the country to feature the brand’s recently-introduced “Formula Blue” design direction held its grand opening celebration on Friday, May 5 in Covington, Georgia, about 35 miles east of Atlanta.
The 110-room, six-floor hotel, which represents an investment of about $13 million, is owned and operated by Royal Hotel Investments. Amenities include a business center; fitness center; outdoor swimming pool; 400-sq. ft. board room; 1,000-sq. ft. flexible space meeting room; guest laundry; and an expansive outdoor patio.
“When a hotel looks special, guests feel special – and they’re eager to come back,” said Navin Shah, Chairman of Royal Hotel Investments. “That’s why we created a property that offers the comforts of home, the convenience of the office, and the luxury of a vacation.”
The “Formula Blue” concept includes features such as an open lobby and “great room” area for social, business, or dining gatherings; re-designed case goods; and a headboard for beds that minimizes noise transfer between rooms.
“Today’s travelers want a hotel experience that is comfortable, simple, and smart, so we have brought these benefits together in a very attractive way in a strong suburban market,” added Shah, who began construction of the Holiday Inn Express in June of 2015.
Covington is often referred to as “the Hollywood of the South” based on its popularity as the filming location for many well-known movies and television shows, notably “The Walking Dead,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Selma,” and “The Dukes of Hazzard.”
Atlanta-based Royal Hotel Investment, which was formed in 2002, currently owns and operates two Hampton Inn hotels in metropolitan Atlanta — a 105-room property in Covington and a 99-room property in Conyers — plus a 20,000 sq. ft. shopping center in Covington. The company also plans to add another two hotels within the next year.
“Our properties are important local resources for both travelers and residents – where business gets done and where memories are created by families, companies, and civic groups,” adds Shah, who also serves as Vice-Chairman of Embassy National Bank.
The bank, which was established in 2007, has grown to more than $115 million in assets and is a leading lender to small businesses in the southeastern United States, including many hoteliers.
Photo Details: Cutting the grand opening ribbon on Friday, May 5 at the newly-built 110 room, 6-floor Holiday Inn Express in Covington, Georgia were: William Watson, Regional Director, Midscale Franchise Development, IHG; Navin Shah, Chairman, Royal Hotel Investments; and Covington Mayor Ronnie Johnston.
