Sheraton and Four Points by Sheraton Hotels Go Smoke-Free
More Than 300 Hotels in the U.S., Canada and Caribbean to Implement 100% Smoke-Free Policy
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Feb. 11, 2008–Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) announced today that its Sheraton(R) and Four Points(R) by Sheraton hotel brands will implement a smoke-free policy at more than 300 hotels and resorts throughout the U.S., Caribbean and Canada. Sheraton and Four Points by Sheraton have begun converting all smoking guestrooms to non-smoking in preparation for the new policy. In addition, all public areas will also be 100% smoke-free*.
Sheraton and Four Points by Sheraton hotels decision to go smoke-free reflects both brands’ commitment to providing guests with a clean, comfortable and healthy stay. The new policy also follows in the footsteps of their sister brand, Westin, who became the first hotel chain to go smoke-free in January 2006 when the brand introduced the policy across all hotels in the U.S., Canada and Caribbean. Due to the overwhelming feedback from guests Westin hotels in Australia, Fiji, and Scotland have also gone smoke-free.
To prepare for the new policy approximately 8,000 smoking rooms will undergo an extensive cleaning process. This includes deep cleaning all soft goods, and treating all hard surfaces, walls and carpets to eliminate allergens, replacing air filters and deep cleaning all air conditioning units.
“We are committed to the health and quality of life of our guests and associates and that includes providing a clean, smoke-free environment,” said Hoyt Harper II, Senior Vice President for Sheraton Hotels & Resorts and Four Points by Sheraton. “Our core customers are road warriors who we know endure a rigorous travel schedule. At Sheraton and Four Points by Sheraton we want to provide a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere that is healthy.”
All Sheraton and Four Points by Sheraton hotels and resorts in the U.S., Caribbean and Canada will offer a designated outdoor area for guests who smoke.
There are currently 70 Sheraton and Four Points by Sheraton hotels in the U.S., Canada & Caribbean that are currently smoke-free. Both hotel brands expect to be completely smoke-free in the U.S. and Canada by December 31, 2008.
About Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts is the largest brand of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, and has more than 400 hotels in 75 countries.
One of the world’s most global hotel brands, Sheraton is a favorite among business and leisure travelers who expect warmth from the moment they walk through the door. The welcoming ambience, friendly staff, upscale amenities and timeless style create a setting where travelers are comfortable being themselves.
About Four Points by Sheraton
Four Points by Sheraton, with more than 130 properties in 22 countries, is offers the self-sufficient traveler a new kind of style and comfort combined with a spirited “can-do” service — all at an honest value. Four Points by Sheraton hotels are located in easy-to-reach areas – close to major airports, suburban centers, urban hot spots and resort and vacation destinations. Four Points Simple Pleasures(SM) program offers little indulgences such as tasty pie, a great cup of coffee and premium craft beers from around the world. It’s those little extras that score big points with Four Points by Sheraton customers.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 900 properties in more than 100 countries and 155,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts with the following internationally renowned brands:
St. Regis(R), The Luxury Collection(R), Sheraton(R), Westin(R), Four Points(R) by Sheraton, W(R), Le Meridien(R) and the recently announced Aloft(SM) and Element(SM) Hotels. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.
*Smoking may be permitted in areas not owned or operated by Sheraton Hotels & Resorts and Four Points by Sheraton and in designated outdoor smoking areas.
CONTACT: Starwood Hotels & Resorts
Nadeen Ayala, 914-640-8259
SOURCE: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.