What Are Americans' Favorite Hotel Chains?

Patrick Clarke
by Patrick Clarke
Last updated: 5:00 PM ET, Mon May 2, 2016

PHOTO: Hampton Inn Louisville. (Photo courtesy of Hampton by Hilton).

Popularity isn't everything but it's awfully important within the hotel industry, where brands often rely on satisfied guests to not only return for a future stay but spread the positive word to their friends and family.

Research company Brand Keys recently released its 21st annual Customer Loyalty Engagement Index (CLEI), revealing Americans' most beloved brands across a variety of industries, including hotels.

Read on to find out which brands earned top honors in their respective category for 2016.

Economy: Microtel Inn & Suites

Wyndham Worldwide's Microtel Inn & Suites wins the economy segment in 2016 and for the second year in a row.

The brand's success in the low budget category is nothing new however, as it's finished tops in customer satisfaction in J.D. Power's annual survey in 13 of the past 14 years and each of the past three years.

The chain is known for offering stellar discounts that make it a favorite among economy guests. But it also excels in other key areas, including hotel services and facilities.

Midscale: Hampton by Hilton

Travelers looking for the most amenities at the best price are likely to find it in Hilton Worldwide's Hampton by Hilton.

READ MORE: Which Hotel Loyalty Programs Earn the Highest Satisfaction for 2016?

Named the top midscale brand in Brand Keys 2016 CLEI, Hampton combines an affordable rate with a slew of perks, including complimentary daily breakfast and free Wi-Fi service.

The brand is also among the most innovative in the industry, reaching out to guests and developers alike to assist in making improvements.

Upscale: Omni Hotels & Resorts

Like Microtel Inn & Suites, Omni Hotels & Resorts was recognized as the No. 1 brand in the upper-upscale segment in terms of customer satisfaction by J.D. Power's 2015 survey.

READ MORE: What Are The Best Hotels of 2016?

Much of the brand's success can be attributed to its Select Guest loyalty program, which allows members to earn free Wi-Fi, express check-in and check-out and complimentary nights after just one stay.

The rewards only improve with more stays.

Luxury: Ritz-Carlton

Another 2015 J.D. Power customer satisfaction champion, Marriott International's Ritz-Carlton won the luxury category in Brand Keys 2016 CLEI.

A key factor separating Ritz-Carlton from its luxury competitors is its ability to offer guests unique experiences rather than just high-end amenities and services. Examples include sporting events or exclusive getaways.

Add on one of the most attentive staffs in the business and it's not hard to see why so many hotel guests - especially those with money to spend - have fallen in love with Ritz-Carlton.


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Patrick Clarke

Patrick Clarke

Senior Editor

A Maryland native and wanderer who has lived across the U.S. from North Carolina to SoCal, Patrick Clarke graduated from Towson University with a B.S. in journalism. He previously worked for Bleacher

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