Marriott's goal to have 300 LEED hotels by 2015 is accelerated by the launch of a green hotel prototype that has been pre-approved by USGBC.

AAHOA executives lauded brands for continuing to show willingness to communicate on franchise issues and, in some cases, modify some practices.

With the new descriptor strategy in place and passed by members, the company plans to clear up consumer confusion about the differences between Best Western properties. The strategy gives each hotel a Best Western, Best Western Plus or Best Western Premier designation based on its AAA diamond rating.

Early check-in, late check-out, two new restaurant concepts and five room designs further define Radisson's expansion.

At a recent Mindclick SGM/HotelWorld Network event, hotel owners, operators and suppliers said a single certification would simplify the process and go a long way in reducing the industry's environmental footprint.

Following an intense period of new launches, 2009 was a year for brands to look inward, and 2010 promises even more focus on brand clarification, building the right leadership teams and making brands as attractive as possible to potential franchisees and guests. BY EDITOR IN CHIEF STEPHANIE RICCA

Country Inns & Suites opened its first hotel in New York City in early November, and the property represents a transition to a more upscale look for the brand. BY EDITOR IN CHIEF STEPHANIE RICCA

The renovation to Colorado's largest hotel is part of a $6-billion brand-wide global revitalization effort that includes upgrading 100 hotels in the U.S.

Hotel Indigo makes strides toward clarifying what the brand represents; H&MM tours new Staybridge Suites room prototypes created by art and design students; and Holiday Inn's Keycard Hotel was on display. BY SENIOR EDITOR JASON Q. FREED

Marriott International said it will expand its green hotel portfolio tenfold over the next five years by introducing a green hotel prototype that will be pre-certified LEED.