Choice Hotels has introduced a dual-brand hotel prototype for its mid-scale Sleep Inn and extended-stay MainStay Suites properties. The franchisor says that the design represents efficiency for owners by reducing operating expenses and creating higher occupancy rates that the MainStay Suites brand experiences. Guests will have access to a single lobby and community room, along with a shared fitness center and laundry facility.

"By combining two highly sought-after brands in the same building on one site, we're able to provide an opportunity to meet the needs of almost any guest's travel occasion, representing a competitive advantage for owners," says Mike Varner, senior director of brand strategy for the Sleep Inn, MainStay Suites, and Suburban Extended Stay Hotel brands at Choice Hotels. "Offering a product on one footprint that fits the needs of two unique guest segments can be a smart move for hoteliers in today's competitive hotel development environment."