MEMPHIS, Tenn., Davidson Hotel Company (DHC), one of the nation's largest hotel management companies, today announced it will manage the recently opened 225-room Westin Annapolis in Maryland, the anchor property of a $250 million mixed-use development that includes office and retail space, restaurants and 208 luxury condominiums. The company also oversaw certain elements of the final construction of the new-build property, in addition to all pre-opening activities.

"Managing the Westin Annapolis is in keeping with our strategy of working with well-regarded brands in markets where we can create a distinct competitive advantage," said John Belden, Davidson's president and chief executive officer. "This hotel is the city's most luxurious, appealing to a broad cross-section of business and leisure travelers, and also has the capacity and elegance to host government-related activities, meetings and social events. We look forward to serving the special needs of the U.S. Naval Academy and the Maryland state capitol offices, both of which are within minutes of the hotel.

"The Westin's Azure restaurant is already becoming a favorite with the locals because of its unique, upscale ambience," he said. "The lobby-level Starbucks also is turning the hotel into the community's regular coffee stop. With the opening of Morton's Steakhouse in October, we expect to become the new gathering spot for residents and visitors alike. The hotel is quickly ramping up, and we expect it to be the top performer in the community. This property has been an ideal addition to our portfolio."

Located at 100 Westgate Circle, the Westin Annapolis features 11,000 square feet of meeting space, a 6,343 square foot ballroom, an indoor pool and Jacuzzi, a Westin Workout fitness facility powered by Reebok and Westin's signature 10-layer Heavenly Bed and spacious Heavenly Bath. The Westin Annapolis is a dog-friendly hotel, with its own official golden retriever, Trumpy, who sits with the concierge, ready to offer a warm greeting to guests, and Heavenly Dog Beds that are available for dogs traveling with their owners.

About Davidson Hotel Company | Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., Davidson Hotel Company is an award- winning, full-service hotel owner and third-party management company that provides management, development/renovation, acquisition, consulting and accounting expertise for the hospitality industry. The company currently owns and/or manages 30 upscale hotels with nearly 8,900 rooms across the United States, including such brands as Westin, Sheraton, Hyatt, Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Embassy Suites, Doubletree, Marriott, Renaissance, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn. Additional information on Davidson may be found at the company's Web site, .

Cyndi Carl
(901) 821-4155
Davidson