BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—The new year marks a new beginning for Vimana Franchise Systems. The company is introducing a third product for independent hoteliers, and also unveiling a radically-enhanced infrastructure of franchise support services that will make it easy for franchisees to compete head on with the bigger brands.

Independent hotels that wish to reap the benefits of a soft brand while still retaining their name and independent can join “Independent Collection by Vimana,” which will require a small tweak to their signage. Hotels can experience the same fortified infrastructure available to Centerstone and Key West Members.

“What is helping to make the Vimana so great in 2017 is our many new partners who are driving the technology and providing consultative services to our members,” said Amanda Belmonte, VP of Franchise Services. “In particular, we have partnered with IBC (InnDependent Boutique Collection) to give our hotels direct access to the company’s channel management and booking technology via the IBC Marketplace. The Constellation CRS and new Global Loyalty Club program are each driven by IBC. Likewise, our new Revenue Management program is supported by Room Results; the new website is designed by Infomedia; our buying power is driven by Source1 Purchasing, and Vimana University is powered by HMBookstore.

Vimana has secured the expertise of Tim Pigsley, former vice president of marketing at Ramada, to serve as the Vimana Technology Advisor. Tim will guide Vimana corporate as it adds programs to ensure an effective technology initiative. To drive the PR effort on, Vimana selected Barbara Worcester and PRpro to lead the Vimana PR effort both on a national and property level.