Sustaining three decades of growth in the ever-shifting landscape of American hospitality requires more than just excellent service; it demands a precise blend of strategic foresight and an unwavering cultural identity. For Hospitality America, a hotel management company based in Greenville, South Carolina, celebrating its 30th anniversary was not just a look back at its accomplishments but a launchpad for its next chapter of expansion. The company’s ability to thrive in a highly competitive market stems from a dual focus on disciplined, strategic growth and a deeply ingrained corporate culture that prioritizes its people.
From Regional Roots to a Three-Decade Legacy
Founded in 1995 by Chris Cargen, Hospitality America began as a modest regional operator with a clear vision. Over the years, under the current leadership of President and CEO Ben Campbell, the company has skillfully navigated the complexities of the modern hospitality industry. This journey saw the organization evolve from a local enterprise into a respected operator with a diverse portfolio of properties spanning the Southeast and Midwest.
The company’s enduring success is a testament to its adaptability. Having weathered economic recessions, technological disruptions, and fundamental shifts in travel behavior over the past thirty years, Hospitality America has consistently demonstrated an ability to maintain stability while pursuing calculated growth. This resilience has established its reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking partner in the hotel management sector.
Building the Future with Strategic Portfolio Growth
The 30th-anniversary milestone was marked by a significant and strategic expansion of its portfolio, underscoring a commitment to future growth. The company’s development pipeline includes several high-profile properties, reflecting a focus on premium brands in high-demand markets. Among these additions are the Element Charleston Airport and a Home2 Suites by Hilton, both in South Carolina, which cater to the extended-stay market.
Further expanding its footprint, Hospitality America has also partnered with Hilton to introduce two Tapestry Collection hotels in Arkansas: the Hotel Avail and the Sundry Hotel. This calculated growth is not merely about adding properties but about forging strong partnerships with owners and developers who share the company’s philosophy. The strategy hinges on a foundation of disciplined operations and consistent execution, ensuring that each new hotel meets the high standards of both the brand and its ownership group.
A Blueprint for Success Through Leadership and Execution
At the core of Hospitality America’s operational philosophy is a principle of reliable execution. CEO Ben Campbell emphasizes that the company’s success is built on a foundation of operational discipline and a commitment to delivering consistent results for property owners, brand partners, and guests. This approach has fostered a culture where excellence is the standard, not the exception.
This philosophy is reinforced by a strong belief in leadership continuity and the development of internal talent. The company actively cultivates talent from within, creating clear pathways for career advancement. This commitment is evidenced by recent key promotions, including Kellie Hanselman to Vice President of Sales and Ryan Sistare to Vice President of Operations. Such appointments highlight a culture that invests in its people, ensuring that its leadership team possesses a deep understanding of the company’s values and strategic objectives.
Cultivating an Award-Winning Culture Beyond the Workplace
Hospitality America’s identity is anchored by its core “PEACH” values: Passionate, Excellence, Adaptable, Community, and Humble. These principles are more than just corporate buzzwords; they are actively integrated into the daily operations and long-term vision of the company. In celebration of its anniversary, the company launched a series of associate-led initiatives designed to bring these values to life through volunteer engagement programs, enhanced employee recognition events, and new mentorship opportunities.
The tangible results of this culture-first approach are reflected in numerous industry accolades. For two consecutive years, the company has been named a USA Today Top Workplace, a distinction based directly on employee feedback. Furthermore, it has been recognized as one of South Carolina’s 50 Fastest Growing Companies and received a prestigious award for its high employee retention rates, proving that a positive workplace environment is a powerful driver of business success.
The story of Hospitality America’s first thirty years was defined by steady growth and a steadfast commitment to its core principles. By successfully balancing ambitious expansion with a nurturing internal culture, the company built a strong foundation. This approach not only ensured its longevity but also positioned it for a future where its legacy of excellence could continue to expand across new markets and properties.
