Quality Inn: 85 Years of Service

Celebrating 85 Years of Quality Inn

Quality Inn, the founding brand of Choice Hotels International, Inc. and the first franchise hotel chain in the United States is celebrating its 85th anniversary by reflecting on its many achievements. With over 1,800 hotels worldwide, including a record 44 openings this year alone, Quality Inn remains one of the fastest-growing midscale brands in the industry.

Today, one in four midscale properties in the U.S. is a Quality Inn, highlighting its enduring legacy of providing value to hotel owners and guests. As the brand commemorates this milestone, it continues to evolve and adopt innovative solutions that meet the demands of modern travellers while consistently delivering the high standards of service that have established Quality Inn as a leader in the hospitality sector.

To reinforce its commitment to supporting owners and elevating guest experiences at Quality properties, Choice has implemented design and service initiatives that have driven higher guest satisfaction scores and have grown the brand’s appeal among consumers. Feedback from more than 24,000 customers earned Quality recognition in Newsweek’s 2024 ‘Best of the Best’ list, highlighting the most reputable brands based on brand image, reliability of service, and trustworthiness, among other metrics. It also made Newsweek’s 2025 “Best Customer Service” list in recognition of its ability to satisfy high customer expectations consistently.

“From being the first hotel brand to offer 24-hour desk service to offering hot breakfasts, Quality Inn has always been an industry trailblazer and has continued to evolve to meet travelers’ changing preferences and drive the best value for hotel owners. It's a key reason why Quality remains a magnet for first-time investors almost a century on,” said Judd Wadholm, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Core Brands, Choice Hotels International.

“As we look toward the future, we are setting the bar even higher for Quality. We are committed to continuously strengthening the brand and giving owners the tools to satisfy customers’ high expectations and help drive even greater revenue.”  

In recent years, the company introduced Q Design Solutions, which offers franchise owners cost-effective, turnkey room design options that ensure a clean, welcoming aesthetic in guestrooms, breakfast areas, and lobbies. From furniture to flooring, these fresh design updates were created following guest testing and a hotel pilot program. The design options have received a great reception from guests and hotel owners who have adopted this design package. Owners have already seen a return on their investment through increased Likelihood to Recommend (LTR) ratings.

Choice has also introduced Q Service, a specialized training program that equips franchise owners with the tools to deliver better guest experiences that couple with Quality brand hotels “Value Qs”:  

• Q Bed: Fresh linens, pillows, and blankets
• Q Breakfast: Complimentary fresh and healthy breakfast selections
• Q Shower: Bright and roomy showers with multi-setting showerheads
• Q Service: Professional, responsive, and friendly staff
• Q Essentials: Free Wi-Fi, coffee and tea selections, and in-room refrigerator

With these recent investments, Quality reinforces its leadership in hospitality 85 years after its founding and continues to attract new franchisors while expanding its presence nationwide.