Company Press Release
February 4, 2000
VANCOUVER, WA -- Red Lion Hotels & Inns has announced the selection of Tom Murray as its new chief operating
officer.
Murray, who assumed his position in January, oversees the continued re-introduction and expansion of the Red Lion
identity. Red Lion's goal, previously announced by the company, is to grow its hotels by building on its Northwest
roots, establishing an even stronger western U.S. presence through franchising, and ultimately establish a nationwide
presence for the brand.
``Tom's record of success in development made him the logical choice for taking the growth of Red Lion to the next
level,'' said Steve Porter, executive vice president, Hotel Division, Hilton Hotels Corporation, the parent company
of Red Lion Hotels & Inns. ``His experience as vice president of franchise development, leading an organization
that is poised to add 40 additional properties in 2000, demonstrates what he can achieve for Red Lion.''
Said Manfred Gerling, director of development for Red Lion Hotels & Inns, ``I am delighted Tom is joining the
Red Lion team. Right now, we have nearly 30 potential franchising agreements that I would consider very active.
With an executive on board of Tom's caliber and proven ability, we have the leadership in place to bring these
outstanding hotels into the Red Lion family.''
As part of his new responsibilities, Murray will evaluate properties within the Hilton family as well as outside
brands for inclusion in Red Lion's ambitious growth strategy. ``Throughout the industry I have encountered great
enthusiasm for the return of the Red Lion brand, and now I am proud to be a part of that effort,'' said Murray.
``I see a huge opportunity for growth and success, carrying forward the message of `Care, Comfort and Value' for
our guests, employees, and owners.''
Murray is a 20-year hospitality industry veteran. Since 1990 he has held several general manager positions and
corporate executive positions with Promus Hotel Corporation, the former parent company of Red Lion Hotels &
Inns. He most recently served as vice president of franchise development. Prior to his work with Promus, he served
in a variety of management positions at the Marriott Hotel Corporation. Murray is a 1981 graduate of Villanova
University.
Red Lion Hotels & Inns, headquartered in Vancouver, Wash., was founded in 1959. Red Lion has 28 properties
in the U.S. with more than 4,500 rooms located in nine states. It is owned by Hilton Hotels Corporation, recognized
internationally as a preeminent hospitality company. The company develops, owns, manages or franchises 1,700 hotels,
resorts and vacation ownership properties. Its portfolio includes many of the world's best known and most highly
regarded hotel brands, including Hilton, Doubletree, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inn Hotels, Homewood
Suites, Red Lion Hotels & Inns and Conrad International.
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Contact:
Red Lion Hotels & Inns
Charlie Cahill, 360/514-8922
or
R/H/A/S
Constance Southwick, 503/227-5547