Management Services - Hotels
Interior Image Group Welcomes MMI as New Client and Expands Full-Service Design Portfolio
November 30th, 2023
Interior Image Group (IIG), a leading name in interior design and procurement for the hospitality industry, continues to expand by adding four new clients to its full-service portfolio. As the firm continues to experience remarkable growth, this expansion highlights its commitment to delivering memorable design experiences within the hospitality industry.
Refreshing A Stay on the Blue Ridge Parkway
July 30th, 2024
Since acquiring the property in December 2023, MMI has invested in multiple enhancements including a significant landscaping project and the reimagining of The Main Lodge’s lobby.MMI partnered with Asheville-based designer - Hearth + Home Interiors - to curate a welcoming respite for guests with whimsical elements throughout as an ode to both Swiss and Appalachian heritage. Originally opened to the public more than 110 years ago, Switzerland Inn was owned by the same family for more than forty years before MMI Hospitality Group became its steward last year. Fortunately, the team on property understands why MMI was selected to lead the Inn's next chapter and welcomes returning guests in their new spaces.
MMI To Operate Fontana Village Resort & Marina In NC
August 21st, 2023
Officials of MMI Hotel Group (MMI), a leading operator of core, lifestyle and destination resorts and hotels located primarily in the Southeast United States, today announced the company has been selected to operate Fontana Village Resort & Marina in Fontana Dam, N.C. Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Fontana Village is a resort property comprised of approximately 356 scenic acres that includes a 91-room lodge, 124 cabins, two restaurants, a general store, two swimming pools including a lazy river, multi-purpose sports fields/courts, post office building, gas station, 60-slip marina with 18 floating cabin moorings, horse stables and public trails. If that's not enough, guests can also enjoy an 18-hole miniature golf course, mountain biking, white water rafting, boat rentals and a myriad of local excursions.
MMI Hotel Group Adds Cambria to Lifestyle Portfolio
May 11th, 2023
Officials of MMI Hotel Group (MMI), a leading operator of core, lifestyle and destination resorts and hotels located primarily in the Southeast United States, today announced the company has assumed management of the Cambria Suites in Fort Mill, S.C. This 127-room Cambria Suites joins an impressive portfolio of properties that are managed and/or owned by MMI, including The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island, Ga., Mission Inn Resort & Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla. and The James Madison Inn boutique hotel in Madison, Ga., among others.
Southern Hospitality: MMI President and CEO Micajah Sturdivant IV
May 4th, 2023
Micajah P. Sturdivant IV, president and CEO of Mississippi-based MMI Hospitality Group, says his family’s 1850s roots in farming are consistent with its embrace of the hospitality industry a century later. The family farm has evolved and expanded into the present day, growing cotton, corn, and soybeans in a vertically integrated, technology focused commercial operation while staying true to its culture and values. The family hospitality business has followed a similar trajectory over its 66-year history, progressing to remain relevant while holding true to its principles. Sturdivant, who now represents the third generation at the helm, described for LODGING MMI’s conception and evolution, his path to his current position, and the traditions he strives to maintain.
Here We Grow Again: MMI Adds FL Resort
December 20th, 2022
The Family-Owned and Family-Operated company (MMI) was selected for its family culture and pledge to honor the work done to date. MMI believes in the bones of the buildings, wherewithal of the on-property team, and transformative engineering of its corporate disciplines. With more than 66 years of experience, the extensive MMI leadership team will act as both owner and operator of the expansive resort through their hotel management division, MMI Hotel Group. MMI is focused on the long term and respects the legacy of those that have come before them. MMI uses the phrase "Here We Grow Again" to connect the importance of the acquisition of new properties, and to recognize the growth of the MMI family.
James Madison Inn Reborn
April 8th, 2022
The James Madison Inn (a 19-room hotel), Merchant Hall (previously Madison Team Room) and Variety Works (a rustic event venue) in downtown Madison, GA will be managed and operated by MMI Hotel Group upon the recent sale by local ownership. The amenities of the property and community position the subject offerings well for professional and personal travel purposes.
MMI Team Recognized as Finalist for Marriott Full Service Opening
April 8th, 2022
Corporate and property-level MMI team members were recognized by Marriott's full-service hotel leadership team for their successful opening of The Memphian, a Tribute portfolio property. While there were many hotels to have opened even into the still distressed 2021 COVID market, only four hotels were designated as finalists for the efforts made in designing and developing a localized concept and guest committed to prior to opening and met or exceeded their expectations upon experiencing the hotel as a guest.
Do You Need to Ask Your Management Company to Take A Step Forward?
May 5th, 2021
Do You Need to Ask Your Management Company to Take A Step Forward?Structures and Dynamics of a Healthy Owner/Manager Relationship
Much like a game of “Mother, May I?”, today’s business relationships are based on several ageless principles including: Listening. In any game or business, listening is the most vital principle to go by. A high-level management company will not only listen to you, but also to guests and staff. Respecting the Rules. Advancement in the game (and in business) is only granted once the right question is asked. Is your management team asking the right question(s)? Seizing the Opportunity. Engaged hotel leaders have their “head in the game” and are increasing their indexes as the market returns. Giving Tough Love. Even the newest of players needs to hear constructive criticism when the wrong move is made….and action is expected in response. We will be speaking throughout the month of May on our LinkedIn profile with weekly postings delving into specifics subject matters critical to a successful owner/operator relationship.
GA Island's Boutique Inn to be Managed by MMI
February 1st, 2021
Georgia Island’s Boutique Inn to be Managed by MMI Hotel GroupHotel Simone begins 2021 with new management and marketing support
Beginning February 1st, Hotel Simone, St. Simons Island, GA’s newest hotel offering, will be supported by MMI Hotel Group, a hospitality management group with long-standing relationships in the local community. For forty years, MMI has managed a historic resort, golf course and franchised hotel on the island.
Hospitality Veteran Retires from Active Duty
January 13th, 2021
After 40 years of service, Gaines Sturdivant retires from MMI Hospitality GroupAs the hospitality industry continues to work its way through the COVID era, Gaines will remain as Chairman of the Board of MMI. “Though these are unusual economic times, they are also exciting,” Gaines stated in speaking about how MMI is positioned well for the future. Speaking of the new leadership to carry on his work at MMI, Gaines stated, “There will be many opportunities, and I am certain MMI will continue to be an industry leader and find success in everything it does.”
MMI Hits 20 Mark by End of 2020
December 14th, 2020
MMI will end 2020 with 20 management contracts in hand. Nearly two years ago we rolled out a business plan to expand our portfolio of hotels and restaurants. 20 hotels by the end of 2020.The ink has just dried with the owner of Hotel Simone, an adults-only inn on St. Simons Island, GA. This 25-room boutique hotel opened just under a year ago and is walking distance to The King and Prince, an existing MMI-managed hotel.
Congratulations are in order to Dave Hamilton, MMI’s Corporate Dir of Business Development to saw the engagement through to signing.
Andrew Pace Joins MMI Hotel Group Leadership Team
August 1st, 2022
MMI Hotel Group is pleased to welcome Andrew Pace to its corporate team as Managing Director of Acquisitions and Strategic Partnerships. Focusing on partnerships with hotel investors who value the returns that engaged management can create, MMI appreciates the legacy and engagement Andrew has fostered throughout his career.
31st Tribute Hotel Opens in Memphis
May 5th, 2021
May 4, 2021 marks the opening of The Memphian Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio property, in Overton Square. Four years in the making, this boutique asset has been creatively customized to fit into the character of midtown Memphis. As General Manager Eldon Pico noted in his opening night toast, "Once you stay at The Memphian, you are a Memphian!"The MMI leadership team worked as co-developer and management company for the positioning and programming to ensure brand essence, boutique design, and bespoke service model all made sense for ownership, the operating team and their guests. MMI has experience in this realm of work for nearly fifty years.
HotelNews.com's coverage of the opening can be found HERE.
MMI Grows Despite Industry Downturn
December 1st, 2020
As a Mississippi-based, hospitality management company, MMI Hotel Group has seen its share of economic cycles during its 64 years of service. Much like our regional economy, a company’s business strategy of “slow and steady” is beneficial in weathering the storm. Fortunately, MMI has found a competitive tolerance for quick swings in demand while maintaining a strong service culture.After a quick response to COVID’s devastating impact on travel, MMI began being recognized by industry players as a safe harbor for their hospitality investments. As a result, MMI Hotel Group has continued to grow with the addition of seven hotels to its third-party management portfolio in the last six months.
Small Luxury Hotel To Be Supported by MMI
July 10th, 2020
MMI Hotel Group has been retained to manage revenue management services at The Wyvern Hotel, a Conde Nast Johansens property. This downtown Punta Gorda, Florida luxury lifestyle hotel overlooks the Peace River, an element of Gasparilla Sound.“We are delighted to bring our management expertise to this well-appointed full-service property,” said Dominic Buompastore, Vice President of Operations for MMI. “With incredible views of Charlotte Harbor from its rooftop bar and St. Regis-specified room design, the hotel appeals to both business and leisure travelers. The Wyvern offers 63 rooms with views of the bustling avenues of Punta Gorda or the majestic yachts moored in Charlotte Harbor.” The amenities also include 88 Keys Florida Restaurant, a lobby-level piano bar featuring contemporary American Cuisine and authentic art.
'Topping Off' of La Quinta Round Rock Hotel Marks Major Construction Milestone
July 9th, 2020
Round Rock, Texas – Monday, 06 July 2020– La Quinta Round Rock celebrates a construction milestone with the completion of its structural framework and final beam placement. Located near Dell Diamond Stadium, the home stadium of the Round Rock Express, and Kalahari, Round Rock, one of America's largest parks, the new La Quinta by Wyndham, will offer guests contemporary rooms, modern amenities, and their signature Here for You service.
The Memphian is Beaming with Pride
June 15th, 2020
Boutique Hotel in Midtown Celebrates Construction MilestoneMemphis, Tennessee – June 11, 2020 – The Memphian is beaming with pride as they celebrate a construction milestone with the completion of its structural framework and final beam placement. Located in Overton Square and part of Tribute Portfolio, Marriott International’s collection of characterful independent hotels, The Memphian prides itself on a relaxed, lived-in atmosphere that welcomes you to the neighborhood and ensures the heart of Memphis remains with you long after check out.
A Heartfelt Hello
May 4th, 2020
As the service industry digs out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the sincerity of hospitality professionals will lead the way in creatively adjusting industry practices and societal norms. Southerners will always express a certain sense of comfort and sincerity that begs for direct interaction with family and strangers alike. At MMI Hotel Group, we respect our heritage and the concerns of our team members and guests. As a result, we have taken proactive steps to introduce an alternative greeting that we believe demonstrates our acknowledgement of others from a distance.A video was shared with all MMI team members about our "Heartfelt Hello". To view this same video, you can see a LinkedIn post about it HERE.
Home2 Suites by Hilton St. Simons Island Honored with Conrad Achievement Award
March 3rd, 2020
Home2 Suites by Hilton one of Hilton’s 14 market-leading brands, announced this week winners of its global brand awards. Home2 Suites by Hilton St. Simons Island, was among the “best of the best” awarded the prestigious Conrad Achievement Award for outstanding service.
MMI Hotel Group Expands to Bring Revenue Management Services In-House
December 3rd, 2019
These times call for highly technical, dedicated revenue management. After an exhaustive nine-month search, MMI recognizes not only Ms. Morgan’s capabilities but appreciates her interest in growing the understanding of on-property teams. “Stacey’s skillset covers our portfolio, and her priorities fit perfectly with our culture,” said Micajah Sturdivant, MMI Hotel Group President. “The impact to multiple stakeholder groups will be immediate.”
MMI Expands Management of Marriott & Hilton Hotels
December 2nd, 2019
December 1 marks the addition of three select-service Marriott hotels to its portfolio of third-party management contracts. Organized to support the needs of institutional and individual investors, MMI has managed a variety of Marriott products over the years since opening a Courtyard by Marriott in Jacksonville, FL in 1996.
Culture and Customer Service
August 10th, 2019
Over sixty-two years ago, MMI's co-founders recognized that creating a certain environment based on defined values AND living them out honestly and openly would attract others who believed in their vision. Today's thousands of MMI-ers can take pride in the hospitality they share because of the confidence MMI provides in allowing them to thrive.Culture counts! We might be a bit biased in stating we understand this, but WHEN YOU'VE GOT IT, YOU'VE GOT IT GOOD! Our leaders are committed to carrying forward the culture MMI's co-founders allowed to be fostered over 60 years ago.
Certain values are timelines!
[Click above to read the full post.]
Airbnb, Labor Concerns, Tax Reform Lead Exec Forum
March 5th, 2018
Hotel industry leaders who attended the recent Presidents’ Dinner in conjunction with the Memphis Lodging Industry Update were eager to speak about a number of topics affecting their businesses, but five portions of the two-hour conversation commanded most of the attention.
Cotton House, a Tribute Portfolio property Blooms
July 24th, 2019
Cotton House Hotel, Cleveland, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is thrilled to open its doors on July 23, 2019. A proud member of the Marriott Tribute Portfolio Hotel and a part of the Southern Living Hotel Collection, Cotton House is situated in downtown Cleveland, MS on Cotton Row. Cotton House features 95-rooms and 6 suites along with more than 3,200 square feet of private event space. Additionally, Cotton House boasts two premier dining destinations both helmed by Cleveland, Mississippi’s own James Beard Award semifinalist, Chef Cole Ellis. On-site dining options include Delta Meat Market, serving up southern fare with locally sourced ingredients, and Bar Fontaine, a rooftop lookout serving European-inspired small plates and cocktails. Located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Cotton House is steps away from iconic destinations such as The GRAMMY Museum Mississippi® , Dockery Farms, Belmont Plantation, Delta State University, and more. Cotton House evokes the celebratory spirit and the tight-knit community of the area’s hardworking, hard-playing people and blends elements of the old and new South to create a one-of-a-kind destination.
MMI Names VP of Operations
July 18th, 2019
MMI Hotel Group’s sixty-three years of hospitality has known only three individuals to serve in the role of Vice President of Operations. That is, until the recent hire of the fourth talented bearer of the title, Dominic Buompastore.After building a respected reputation in Hyatt’s operational organization, Dominic was successful in repositioning a large Alabama, full-service hotel and joined the above-property team at Hotel Equities where he most recently served as Vice President of Operations, Full Service and Resort Division. Beyond his industry knowledge, Dominic’s sense of hospitality and appreciation for people appealed to the executive team at MMI. Micajah Sturdivant, President of MMI Hotel Group shared, “The relationship between VP of Ops and President at MMI Hotel Group must be rooted in trust, caring, and honesty. It starts with character and communication – two traits which I believe Dominic routinely demonstrates.”
Dominic shared, “I am excited to be joining MMI to be part of an organization that will allow me to utilize my experience in the industry to drive results. I want to make a positive impact and represent MMI and myself by making a difference in the lives of those that I serve.”
Where Promoting From Within Is a Priority
May 31st, 2019
A recent Harvard Business School article spoke about the propensity of today's workforce to move between employers in part is because of the lack of career development within their existing organization. The only way up is by going out.MMI Hotel Group is proud to share that because of the continued development of its team members, property leaders are on-call. Our Manager-In-Training program has recently provided several qualified candidates for General Manager positions. To read about a few specific promotions, the stability that MMI provides to its team members and the return that generates for properties, click below.
MMI Leads Hilton Rankings
December 5th, 2018
In an industry with new supply continuously arriving and guest expectations ever increasing, the stability of MMI Hotel Group’s principals rooted in early advancement of the hospitality industry continues to produce healthy results.