Interstate Hotels & Resorts (Merged Meristar & Interstate)

Interstate Hotels & Resorts today announced that it has assumed management of the 179-room Holiday Inn West Bay in Traverse City, Mich. The hotel was recently acquired by ValStone Partners, LLC, a Michigan-based private equity firm. The new owners plan to immediately invest in a multi-million dollar comprehensive hotel renovation that will enhance and revitalize this popular waterfront resort, anticipated to be completed ahead of the summer 2013 vacation season.

"This is our first management agreement with ValStone," said Jim Abrahamson, Interstate's chief executive officer. "We appreciate that they are entrusting a local landmark to us, and I am certain that our proven operating systems and resort management expertise, coupled with the hotel's legacy of market dominance, will prove to be a very profitable alliance."

Located on a pristine beach on Lake Michigan, Holiday Inn West Bay has been a Traverse City destination for more than 40 years, welcoming vacationers and business travelers alike to enjoy its peaceful surroundings, on-site marina, and easy proximity to the city's charming downtown, 15 local golf courses, Michigan wineries and the Interlochen Performing Arts Center.

"We are delighted to be investing in this Lake Michigan jewel and contributing to the local economy," said Gerald C. Timmis, III, senior managing director of ValStone Partners, LLC. "Holiday Inn West Bay has been a fixture in the Traverse City community for decades. When we're finished with the planned improvements, the hotel will be positioned to welcome a whole new generation of travelers to this popular destination resort."

The Holiday Inn West Bay features four restaurants, including outdoor dining, and two bars. An on-site marina with watercraft rentals, indoor and outdoor pools, whirlpools and sauna facilities make for memorable vacations, and 6,000 square feet of flexible meeting space for meetings or social occasions provide the perfect venue for business or pleasure. A fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi and a 24-hour airport shuttle round out the hotel's amenities. For hotel reservations or further information, please visit www.tcwestbay.com or call toll-free at (800) 888-8020.

About Aimbridge Hospitality EMEA

Aimbridge EMEA is the International Division of leading US-based global hotel management company, Aimbridge Hospitality. The Aimbridge Hospitality global portfolio, inclusive of managed and pipeline properties, includes approximately 1,500 hotels in 20 countries. The EMEA portfolio, inclusive of pipeline, is made up of 100+ properties. Brands managed by Aimbridge EMEA include Novotel, Adagio, Courtyard, Hilton Garden Inn, Hyatt Place, Radisson, Residence Inn, Staybridge, Mercure, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express, Luxury Collection, Marriott, AC Hotels by Marriott, Hilton, Hampton by Hilton and ibis Hotels. Aimbridge EMEA's portfolio also comprises a number of independent hotels, restaurants and spa and health brands, including Marco Pierre White, Novelli at City Quays and Mamucium. For further information about Aimbridge EMEA visit www.aimbridgeEMEA.com.