by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
As guests arrived at the Omni Tuesday afternoon to check in, they were greeted by General Manager Paul Eckert who explained, “Martinis to your right, champagne to your left.”
It was an unusually festive atmosphere as Downtown’s four-diamond hotel joined the other 44 Omni hotels and resorts to celebrate the 21st anniversary of the Select Guest rewards program.
“We’re the first brand in the industry with a program that isn’t points-driven,” said Eckert. “Stay at an Omni for 10 nights and you earn a free night at any Omni hotel or resort.”
Director of Sales and Marketing Dave Disalvo said Select Guest members account for 28 percent of all Omni check-ins on average, but at the Jacksonville property it’s not uncommon for up to 70 percent of the guests on any given night to be participants in the program. The benefits include free pressing, shoe shines, wireless Internet, morning newspapers and coffee delivered to the room.
“It’s an instant reward and very personalized service,” he added. “Who wants to be away from home traveling on business? We make the experience as pleasant as possible.”
The Omni will celebrate another milestone Oct. 27 when the hotel will mark its 23rd anniversary Downtown.
Executive Chef Greg Wright kept an eye on the champagne tower.
Senior Catering Sales manager Holly Brown and Nichole Terry from The Energy Authority.
Business Travel Sales Manager Jeanne Garvin and Director of Sales and Marketing Dave Disalvo.
356-2466