DALLAS | Continuing its history of industry-first initiatives, Wyndham International, Inc. (AMEX:WBR - News) is launching a new branded franchise concept through Wyndham Vacation Ownership (WVO), the industry's first program that allows independent hotel and timeshare resort developers to align under a committed brand while delivering fully functional support services.

Developed in conjunction with Tempus Resorts International, Ltd., a leading vacation ownership company, Wyndham Vacation Ownership invites independent timeshare and hotel developers to participate in a mutually beneficial franchise and affiliation arrangement.

Wyndham Vacation Ownership, allows developers to reach a broad audience, as well as provides a competitive advantage by offering:

  • Brand affiliation with the Wyndham name through a franchise agreement with WHC
  • Franchise, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wyndham International, Inc.
  • Affiliation with WVC Exchange and the Wyndham Hotel Exchange Program.
  • Broad rental distribution opportunities through Wyndham's central reservations office (800-WYNDHAM) and www.wyndham.com.
  • Special discount programs at Wyndham hotel properties for vacation ownership buyers.
  • Industry expertise through WVO Diagnostics, a specialized consulting program.
  • Advanced Technology through WVO's proprietary software systems.
  • A la carte support services, from sales and marketing to mortgage servicing.

"Wyndham Vacation Ownership is creating a completely new infrastructure with this initiative, and by offering the two strongest components of our brand - the Wyndham name and our portfolio of resort properties - we're confident that Wyndham Vacation Ownership provides elements that will appeal to both the timeshare owner and developer alike," said Fred J. Kleisner, chairman and chief executive officer of Wyndham International. "We also offer these proprietors a proven track record in the vacation ownership industry with market presence as demonstrated at the Wyndham Palms Resort & Country Club in Orlando, Fla."

"The timing of this initiative couldn't be better for the hospitality industry - the business of vacation ownership has demonstrated its strength over the past few years, especially in the branded market segment. It is very apparent that the majority of growth in the industry has come from the brands," said Roger Farwell, president and chief executive officer of Tempus Resorts International. "Wyndham Vacation Ownership provides the vehicle with which the independent hotel and timeshare developer can compete on a level playing field."

Wyndham Vacation Ownership is a division of Tempus Resorts International, Ltd., the fastest growing vacation ownership company in Central Florida. With the strong financial backing of Apollo Real Estate Advisors, L.P. of New York and a superior management team, Tempus is rapidly becoming a national leader in the vacation ownership industry. For more information on WVO affiliation, visit www.wvofranchise.com or call 877-372-6996.

Based in Dallas, Wyndham International, Inc. offers upscale and luxury hotel and resort accommodations through proprietary lodging brands and a management services division. Wyndham owns, leases, manages and franchises hotels and resorts in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.wyndham.com or call 800-WYNDHAM. Wyndham is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (www.globalhotelalliance.com), a worldwide union of hospitality companies that provides guests with unique, personalized guest services.

Darcie M. Brossart
214 863-1335
Wyndham International, Inc.