US: Best Western Hotels & Resorts (BWHR) has relaunched its urban, upscale boutique brand Vīb, with the debut of a new prototype in Tempe, Arizona.
Vīb Tempe joins the brand’s global portfolio as a new model for future Vīb properties. It features a lobby designed as a workspace with furnishings suitable for events and functions. Food and beverage options include Cousins Maine Lobster restaurant as well as a cocktail and coffee bar and rooftop lounge.
There are 10 upcoming locations for the Vīb brand including Cape Town (South Africa), Denver (Colorado) and Crete (Greece). When open, these hotels will join sites in Bangkok (Thailand), Antalya (Turkey) and Springfield (Missouri).
Each new property is onboarded to BWHR’s website, global partnership and sales team. Hotels also gain access to the company’s reward program, which accounts for over 48 million members worldwide.
Larry Cuculic, president and CEO at BWHR, said: “Best Western’s global headquarters have been part of the thriving Phoenix area for more than six decades. The opening of our Vīb Tempe hotel not only represents a relaunch of this exciting boutique brand, but it also reflects our company’s appreciation of this remarkable community and our commitment to grow our presence in the Valley of the Sun.”
Ron Pohl, SVP and COO at BWHR, added: “The new Vīb prototype is designed for urban and dense suburban areas, delivering the upscale vibrance and modern amenities that today’s younger and more remote workforce are seeking – such as unique F&B offerings in every hotel. Vīb Tempe is the perfect example of what our Vīb brand can offer to today’s travellers and the next generation of hotel developers, and we are thrilled to welcome this property to our portfolio as our first corporate owned and managed property.
“Developers across the globe have recognised the vast potential of this upscale brand,” added Pohl. “Vīb balances tech-infused amenities that keep guests connected to the pulse of downtown culture, with contemporary comforts that create a relaxing escape from the hustle – and Vīb Tempe is certainly no exception.”
Brad LeBlanc, SVP and chief development officer at BWHR, said: “Vīb not only appeals to the modern traveller with a truly engaging stay experience, but it also presents a tremendous investment opportunity for developers. To ensure developers are able to capitalise this exciting new prototype, we are excited to offer financial incentives associated with opportunities that line up the right market and the right operator.”
