Meyer Jabara Hotels (MJH) has been selected by Miami-based Pappas Hotels to manage the 95-room Holiday Inn Express & Suites Aiken in Aiken, SC. The limited-service hotel without food and beverage is a top performer in the IHG portfolio, according to the company. This deal marks the fourth Holiday Inn Express to be managed by MJH and its third hotel in South Carolina.
“The time finally came to buy a new hotel, and I knew it needed a professional management team to keep it operating at peak performance,” said Dean Pappas, president, Pappas Hotels. “Several companies recommended Meyer Jabara due to its familiarity with both the Holiday In Express brand and the local market. We clicked right off the bat. Meyer Jabara is a hands-on owner/operator from the top down. CEO Richard Jabara and President Justin Jabara are never too busy to take my call. They are approachable, involved and know the ins and outs of every deal. It’s a great feeling to know I’m not just a number.”
He added, “This property does very well. It’s 30 minutes from Augusta National Golf Club—home of the Masters Golf Tournament—and large local companies such as Bridgestone, Owens Corning and Crane continually drawing business travelers. We are confident that with Meyer Jabara running the show, guests will stay happy and revenues will soar.”
The property, which is near the Savannah River Site, the historic downtown area and Augusta Airport, features the Express Start Breakfast Café (with complimentary hot breakfast), a 24-hour convenience store, an outdoor pool and a fitness center.
“Opening in 2014, this hotel does not require much work, although it will be undergoing a property-improvement plan (PIP) in the next year,” said Justin Jabara. “We are eager to begin working with the existing team to find new ways to improve operations and build even more momentum for this extremely busy hotel in a bustling area known for its equine pursuits, the arts, nature and more.”