Springfield venues provide array of options

An interview with Jason C. Thoron, complex director of sales & marketing at Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Express in Springfield.

Q: Tell us about the properties.

A: The Crowne Plaza Springfield opened in 1997. The hotel was the first "new build" Crowne Plaza for the IHG Brand in the U.S. The Holiday Inn Express was the annex onto the old Holiday Inn - Springfield East (built in the 1960s). In the mid-1990s the ownership redesigned the annex and created the Holiday Inn Express Springfield. At Holiday Inn Express & Suites Springfield, we provide accommodations at our location just off I-55 and I-72. Fresh from a $2 million dollar renovation, travelers will find all the updated guest room amenities. With access to the Crowne Plaza Hotel's facilities next door, we are able to offer amenities at a value.

Q: Tell us about the company.

A: The locations are operated by Driftwood Hospitality Management under franchise agreements with InterContinental Hotel Group. We encourage our partners to use an entrepreneurial approach and empower our associates to take initiative, be proactive and contribute to the success of their property with well-defined strategies.

Q: Tell us an interesting fact about the properties.

A: At the time of construction, the Crowne Plaza Springfield's first floor convention space was wired to be a casino. The hotel was built with six additional elevator shafts should the need for a second tower be built onto the hotel. In February of 2009, the hotel hosted Former President Obama for the 200th birthday celebration of Past-President Abraham Lincoln.

Q: What are people in your industry talking about?

A: In-room technology is vastly different from it was 10 years ago. Today's guests expect the in-room entertainment experience to be better than or at least as good as what they have at home, and they demand it.