HOTELS
Award-Winning Hotel Development
In 2024, Contender America was recognized as Marriott International’s Developer of the Year, a premier industry honor awarded for commitment to quality, partnership, and innovation in hospitality development. The distinction spotlights Contender’s dedication to building high-caliber hotels that elevate both guest experience and brand reputation.
Our Hotel Development Process
From site selection to grand opening, Contender America brings a disciplined, market-driven approach to every hotel project.
Strategic Location Selection
We identify sites that blend strong market fundamentals, demand drivers, and access to nearby amenities.
Partnership Planning
Leveraging our experience and network, we work closely with public officials, brands, and operating partners to ensure project entitlements, infrastrucutre, and desing meet the highest standards.
Flag Alignment and Brand Fit
Our team rigorously evaluates each site to determine the optimal brand or "flag" partner, prioritizing long-term value and guest experience for both business and leisure travelers.
Turnkey Delivery
We manage all phases, including permitting, construction, interior design, and operational readiness, ensuring every opening is on time and on budget.
Hotel Flags & Brand Partnerships
Contender America is proud to develop properties under the industry's most respected hotel brands:
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Marriott International - Flagships include TownePlace Suites, Residence Inn, and the new Element by Westin
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Hilton Hotels - New projects in the pipeline include our first Hilton Garden inn, and the team experience spans Hilton, Hampton, and Embassy Suites
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Our established network includes collaboration with major management companies, ensuring best-in-class service and guest loyalty benefits.
Results That Matter
Guests and communities trust Contender America to deliver hotels that combine hospitality, design, and long-term economic value throughout the Southeast. Our award-winning portfolio continues to grow by partnering with the world's leading hotel "flags" - delivering unique guest experiences and enduring community assets.
Contender AMERICA
Contender is a dynamic development company specializing in land development, hotels, self-storage, automotive, restaurants, and Crystal Lagoons. With a combined experience of over 85 years, our team has amassed more than 12,000 acres for development across South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida. Our portfolio of active projects continues to expand, underscoring our expertise and commitment to excellence in the industry.
Industry Partners
Contender America is proud to partner with some of the most respected names in real estate, hospitality, retail, storage, and automotive.
Our collaborative approach and commitment to excellence have earned the trust of industry leaders including Marriott, Hilton Hotels, D.R. Horton, Lennar Homes, NVR, Meritage Homes, Crystal Lagoons, Public Storage, Culver’s Restaurants, Ford, and Chevrolet.
These valued relationships are a testament to our reputation for quality, reliability, and delivering outstanding results across every division.