Extended Stay America Announces First Select Suites Groundbreaking

February 16, 2024

Extended Stay America, the leading mid-priced extended-stay hotel brand, announces the groundbreaking of the first new construction Extended Stay America Select Suites prototype in Wildwood, Florida. The franchised property is being developed by Southern Hospitality, according to a press release. 

“As the extended stay segment leader, we are excited to unveil the Extended Stay America Select Suites prototype as we begin construction on the first property,” said Mark Williams, Managing Director of Franchise Development at Extended Stay America. “The new construction prototype represents the next phase in the strategic growth of our economy extended-stay brand. Since debuting in 2022 with nearly 100 properties, we have received tremendous interest from developers to build a Select Suites hotel as well as conversion opportunities. We support companies like Southern Hospitality who invest in their communities to provide extended-stay accommodations in a thriving market.”

The four-story, 124-room Extended Stay America Select Suites prototype was thoughtfully designed to drive greater efficiencies while providing the basic amenities and services that cater to longer-staying, value-conscious guests. The prototype maximizes a smaller footprint, with construction taking place on land as little as 1.75 acres. At slightly over 50,000 square feet, the property will feature apartment-like suites with full kitchens and on-site laundry. By design, there are minimal public spaces to further contain operational costs.

“We look forward to building the first new Extended Stay America Select Suites and providing affordable accommodations in Wildwood,” says Nikesh Shah, President of Southern Hospitality. “The Select Suites prototype has a clean and simple design, which benefits hotel developers and operators. We were initially attracted to Extended Stay America given their track record in providing enhanced long-term guest experiences and satisfaction, as well as solid returns for its investors. It has been a pleasure to work with such a collaborative and supportive team during the planning phases of this project, and we look forward to continued success with the brand.”

Known as “The Crossroads of Florida,” Wildwood is centrally located near Florida’s Interstate 75, Turnpike, State Road 44, and U.S. Route 301. The area is home to notable manufacturing, distribution, and agricultural centers, including Charlotte Pipe and Foundry, Crevalle Boats, Gresco Utility Supply, Mapei, and Primus Pipe & Tube. Part of greater Sumter County, Wildwood also offers convenient access to The Villages, UF Health and HCA Florida Hospitals, GatorWorld Parks of Florida, and many local golf courses.

The Extended Stay America Select Suites in Wildwood is expected to open in early 2025.