In just a matter of weeks, a familiar Comfort Inn & Suites became a new Four Points by Sheraton. Behind the new signage, refreshed guest experience and Marriott branding was a team that worked tirelessly to deliver a seamless hotel conversion—one that earned high praise from Marriott's opening team.
Converting from a Choice Hotels property to a Marriott-branded hotel required far more than replacing signs. Every aspect of the hotel—from brand standards and operating procedures to guest experience, training and quality assurance—had to be aligned with Marriott's expectations before opening day.
Leading the effort was General Manager Fran Ramos, alongside Director of Sales Joe Harakel, Assistant General Manager Brian Mendez, Chief Engineer Omar Vega and Executive Housekeeper Filomena Giurbino. Together, they coordinated countless moving pieces while keeping day-to-day operations on track.
Fran said "The biggest challenge during the conversion was running a fully operational hotel with construction taking out entire guest room floors, trying to provide exceptional service to our guests as well as to maintain occupancy. Internally the team has pushed us across the finish line for a great conversion and we are excited to be part of Four Points by Sheraton a Marriott property."
The team's preparation did not go unnoticed. Members of Marriott's opening team described the project as one of the smoothest and best-organized quick-flip conversions they experienced—a testament to the planning, communication and execution that went into every phase of the transition.
The success of the project extended well beyond Newark, New Jersey. Team members from across Shaner's portfolio contributed their expertise, shared best practices and provided hands-on support throughout the conversion, demonstrating the collaborative culture that defines our organization.
As Four Points by Sheraton Newark begins welcoming guests under the Marriott flag, the successful conversion stands as an example of what can be accomplished through careful planning, strong leadership and teamwork. It marks not only the beginning of a new chapter for the hotel, but another milestone for Shaner's growing portfolio.
Excellent work by Fran and the entire hotel team, as well as, all the support teams that rallied to make the conversion a success.
