OTTAWA, ONT.—Westmont Hospitality Group (WHG), one of the largest privately-held hospitality organizations in the world, has solidified its position as a leader in sustainable lodging with a full commitment to Green Key Global in Canada. As of November 2013, Green Key Global’s Eco-Rating Program has certified the entire 120-plus Canadian hotel portfolio, with each property earning a Key rating befitting its environmental performance.
Westmont has an ownership interest in and operates over 1,100 hotels. Currently this stands at over 500 hotels across three continents. Westmont has formed strategic alliances with many of the world’s largest hotel brands. These include Fairmont, InterContinental Hotels Group, Hilton, Accor, Starwood, Wyndham, Choice Hotels, Renaissance, Radisson and Best Western. The company is one of the largest franchisees and co-owners of IHG hotels and Hilton hotels worldwide. Westmont has a very diversified portfolio ranging from budget and apartment hotels to mid-market business and large conference hotels to boutique hotels and luxury resorts.
“It’s wonderful to see a company such as WHG demonstrate its commitment to sustainable lodging practices with their full enrollment in Green Key Global’s Eco-Rating Program throughout Canada,” said Tony Pollard, Managing Director for Green Key Global. “It is very gratifying to see yet another company share our vision of providing travelers with environmentally-friendly choices.
“Sustainability needs to be a life choice as we are all ‘guests’ of planet Earth,” added Kyle Nantais, VP of Revenue Optimization for Westmont. “We are pleased in creating working environments where employees and guests can reduce their carbon footprint by utilizing green practices during their stay.”
The Green Key Eco-Rating program, which ranks, certifies and inspects hotels based on their commitment to sustainable operations and practices, is a comprehensive self-assessment that covers a broad range of operational areas and sustainable practices. Upon completion, the answers are tabulated and the property is awarded a ranking of 1 to 5 Keys and a corresponding display plaque, as well as a comprehensive performance report that includes recommendations, best practices and potential areas for improvement and savings. Participating properties are listed on the www.greenkeyglobal.com website, and also are recognized through Green Key Global’s network of marketing partners including AAA, Travelocity and Expedia, among others. The Green Key process also includes random, on-site verification inspections of audit results.
