Choice Hotel International has named its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Choice Hotels Europe and the UK. Duncan Berry, who joined the company in 2008 as Chief Operating Officer, has been promoted to the role of CEO. Choice Hotels International owns a number of franchised hotel brands including Comfort, Quality, Sleep Inn and Clarion.

As CEO Duncan will retain responsibility for overseeing franchise business development in the UK, enhancing services provided to Choice Hotel Europe's existing franchise owners, as well as the day-to-day management of the company's operations in the UK. In addition, he will now oversee sales and marketing initiatives.

Choice Hotels International's Vice President of International Operations Mark Pearce said: "I am delighted to promote Duncan to the role of CEO for our UK operations. During his tenure with Choice, he has successfully raised the profile of the Choice brands within the UK investment, banking and hotelier communities, signed new franchise agreements, raised the brand standards across the portfolio and greatly enhanced the level of service to existing UK franchise owners."

Duncan Berry added: "I look forward to further developing and expanding our business in the UK both through our existing franchise owner relationships as well as entering into new third-party direct franchising agreements with UK-based companies and individuals."

Choice Hotels Europe franchises nearly 500 hotels across Europe. The portfolio of franchised hotels offers business and leisure travellers a full spectrum from premium economy to luxury hotels. During 2009 Choice Hotels Europe launched new brand standards at all its Comfort and Quality properties throughout Europe, which include free internet access of WiFi, upgrading bedding and a consistent breakfast offering.

Published: 2 February 2010

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