Roomnight sales climbing to over 1.6 million in 2006, recording another sucessful year....

Among the factors influencing the upward swing were a continuing robust travel industry, and the strength of client loyalty among both hoteliers and consumers.  The company's newly revamped Leaders Club proved a success, producing over 30,000 reservations, yielding an average rate of USD 800 for members at the Unlimited level.

New website initiatives at lhw.com also had a positive impact on sales growth with Internet production growing by 14% over the preceding year, from 193,973 roomnights in 2005, to 220,884 in 2006.

Interest in membership grew steadily, as the hospitality industry increasingly sought out The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. for its exceptional value and unrivalled brand recognition.  As a result, the roster of hotels was 437 at year end, with 42 new members admitted. 

Once again, The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. delivered the highest average rate in the luxury hotel sector.  The average room rate continued its upward trend to USD 412 from USD 382 in 2005, an increase of USD 30 year on year, marking the highest ADR ever achieved by the company in its 79-year history.  

Company president and chief executive officer Paul M. McManus, commented, "We are encouraged by the continuing resurgence in luxury travel.  Mindful that unforeseen circumstances can alter that pattern, The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. remains committed to ensuring that our member hotels are always best positioned to sustain the advantage in their markets, through innovative customer-directed initiatives."

He concluded by saying, "The figures for 2006 confirm that sophisticated travelers recognize the value of the Leading Hotels brand.  The surge in application for membership in our organization emphasizes the fact that hoteliers recognize just how relevant our company and its services are in today's heatedly competitive atmosphere."