Wyndham wants travelers to pay $95 a year for hotel discounts and loyalty perks, the first major experiment in a paid loyalty program by a U.S.-based hotel group.
The company launched Wyndham Rewards Insider last week, offering members at least 10% off rates at more than 8,000 properties, automatic gold status in its loyalty program, and discounts on flights and cruises.
CEO Geoffrey Ballotti told analysts that he expects the program to eventually match engagement levels of the company’s co-branded credit card, among its most successful loyalty tools.
A refresher: For $95 a year, Wyndham Rewards Insider gives members discounts that stack on top of promotional rates. Someone encountering a 10% sale gets that plus an additional percentage off.
Members also receive 7,500 annual bonus points worth a free night, 50% faster point accumulation, up to 15% off international flights with carriers including American and United, and