About Red Roof Inn Thunderbolt
Economy hotels are aplenty in the hospitality business, but Red Roof Inn stands out from among the many options with its quality accommodations, and its experience in the industry. Red Roof Inn saw its beginning in 1973 in Columbus, Ohio. It was founded by Jim Trueman, but after his demise, his family was unable to run the company and soon saw the hotel purchased by a real estate fund company, the Morgan Stanley.
Years later, Morgan Stanley offered franchising opportunities for Red Roof Inn and the first franchise was in Branson, Missouri. Accor Company eventually purchased the Red Roof Inn from the Morgan Stanley which saw Red Roof Inn boom to expand to 37,208 rooms in 324 locations.
After the purchase, Accor was deemed to be the third largest owner of hotel chain worldwide. But in 2007, Accor sold Red Roof Inn to Westbridge Hospitality Fund LP and Global Special Situations Group for $1.3B.
Westbridge Hospitality Fund then decided to expand the chain year after year. They opened new hotels in different locations including Brazil, Thailand, Japan, and Canada. One of the brand extensions is the Red Roof Plus that was launched in 2014. It is more expensive as compared to the Red Roof Inn. The amenities were improved such as enhanced LED lighting, outside signage, and new room type.
Another midscale hotel under the umbrella of Red Roof Inn was launched in 2018 called the Red Collection. It is in Downtown Chicago and later expanded in the New York City and Illinois.
