A History of Success
In 2005, Westin Hotels & Resorts® celebrated its 75th birthday, proving
that exceptional service and luxurious comfort are never out of style. The
Westin name graces more than 160 hotels and resorts in over 35 countries and
continues to drive new ideas and innovate services across the hospitality
industry.
See how Westin has made history with a succession of momentous “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 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 voice-mail service – a first in the
hotel industry. |
| 1994 | "Westin Kids Club®," the first children’s program serving infants,
features a broad range of services and facilities for all children under the
age of thirteen.
"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 shower heads 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 provide them
with a superior sleep experience. |
| 2003 | WestinWORKOUT® Gym is introduced as the ideal solution for those dedicated
to keeping fit, even when they’re away from home. |
| 2004 | Fitness equipment is added to guest rooms in response to the growing demand
for more personalized workout options. |
| 2005 | Westin celebrates its 75th anniversary providing guests with exceptional
service and memorable experiences around the world. |
| 2006 | All Westin hotels and resorts across the U.S., Canada and Caribbean go
smoke-free, allowing our guests and associates to breathe easier.
Westin adds sensory elements to its arrival experience including signature
scent, music, lighting and botanicals. |
| 2007 | Westin elevates the hotel spa experience with the introduction of heavenly
spa by Westin TM as well as in-room spa services. |
| 2008 | Westin adds SuperFoodsRx TM 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 open Renewal Lounges in select United Red Carpet Club®
locations. |
And beyond…
Westin continues to create new services and exceptional amenities to inspire
today’s savvy traveler. Take A Look
Ahead for more details.
"This is a story of a little hotel chain that grew from 17 properties in
the Northwest to become a world leader. Today, we have over 160 hotels in 35
countries, including some of the world’s most prestigious properties. And all
the while, we’ve maintained our commitment to quality, people, consistency, and
innovation. Today we’re obsessed with creating unforgettable guest experiences
and infusing a spirit of renewal into every aspect of the Westin
experience.”
Sue Brush, Senior Vice President, Westin Hotels & Resorts
