Timeline
In 2005, Westin Hotels & Resorts® celebrated its 75th birthday, proving that intuitive service and luxurious comfort are never out of style. The Westin name graces more than 180 hotels in 37 countries and continues to drive new ideas and innovative services across the hospitality industry.
See how Westin has made history with a series of industry firsts throughout the years.
1930 |
As luck would have it, two hotel competitors found themselves having breakfast at the same diner in Yakima, Washington. They struck up a conversation, formed an alliance and Western Hotels was born. |
1946 |
The first guest credit card is issued by Western Hotels. |
1947 |
The "Hoteltype" reservations system is introduced, allowing Western to instantaneously confirm guest reservations. |
1954 |
With the addition of a property in Canada, Western Hotels evolves into Western International. |
1969 |
Western Hotels is the first hotel to offer 24-hour room service |
1978 |
The first in-house hotel training program for Executive Chefs is developed by Western Hotels. |
1980 |
The company commemorates its 50th birthday by changing its name to Westin Hotels & Resorts. |
1983 |
Westin is the first major hotel to implement a comprehensive credit card reservation and check-out system. |
1991 |
Westin guests are offered personal voicemail service - a first in the hotel industry. |
1994 |
"Westin Kids Club®," the first children's program serving infants,
debuts, features a broad range of services and facilities for all children
under the age of 13. "Service Express®," the first program of its kind, is introduced, allowing guests to request all hotel services with just one call. |
1999 |
Westin proudly introduces The Heavenly® Bed and changes the industry paradigm of a superior sleep experience. |
2001 |
The heavenly family of innovations grows with the Heavenly® Bath featuring
dual showerheads and more elbow room. In addition, Westin's Heavenly Bath
includes spa towels, custom bath amenities, Heavenly Shower Curtains and
Egyptian cotton-velour robes. The Heavenly® Crib is created to surround babies in comfort and encourage a full night's sleep. |
2003 |
WestinWORKOUT® fitness centers are introduced as the ideal solution for those dedicated to fitness, even when away from home. |
2004 |
Fitness equipment is added to guest rooms in response to the growing demand for more personalized workout options. |
2005 |
Westin Hotels & Resorts celebrates its 75th anniversary, providing guests with exceptional service and memorable experiences around the world. |
2006 |
Westin adds sensory elements to its arrival experience including a signature scent, music, lighting and botanicals. |
2007 |
Westin elevates the hotel spa experience with the introduction of Heavenly
Spa by Westin(SM) as well as in-room spa services. Westin debuts Unwind...A Westin Evening Ritual(SM), inviting guests to participate in relaxing evening rituals that highlight the culture of each destination. |
2008 |
Westin adds SuperFoodsRx® items to its breakfast menu to help guests be
their best on the road. Westin partners with United Airlines to bring Heavenly bedding to select flights and opens Renewal Lounges in select United Red Carpet Club® locations. |
