Last Saturday, representatives from IHG and the Kemmons Wilson Co. cut a ribbon to open a special Holiday Inn. The property, the Holiday Inn Memphis-Wolfchase Galleria, both honors the chain’s iconic founder and heralds its $1-billion relaunch. Saturday’s opening marked the 57th anniversary of the ribbon-cutting of the first Holiday Inn, also in Memphis.

As a tribute to chain founder Kemmons Wilson, the hotel features memorabilia dating from that first opening. Centerpiece of the nostalia is an original room with a bed, desk, lamp and chair from the first property. Hung throughout the hotel is a collection of 80 historical photos, including images of the first stock trade of Holiday Inn, the first royalty check and Kemmons Wilson with notable figures as diverse as Pope John Paul II and Mohammad Ali.

The 133-room property is based on Holiday Inns’ Next Generation prototype and has the chain’s updated signage. More than 3,200 Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties around the world are being updated with the new standards. More than 1,000 hotels are done, and the program will be complete by the end of 2010.

"The Holiday Inn brand relaunch has given us renewed excitement about the brand, which is meaningful because Holiday Inn is a major part of our family's history," said Kemmons Wilson, Jr., executive vice president of Kemmons Wilson Co., at the opening.  "I remember when I was just six years old and we cut the ribbon on the very first Holiday Inn. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to continue my father's legacy today and in the future with the new look and feel of the iconic brand he created 57 years ago."

The new standards embedded in the relaunch and present at the new Memphis property address both physical and service elements, including:

• A decluttered and updated lobby look;
• A Holiday Inn signature scent and sound;
• White bedding with pillows in two comfort levels: soft and firm;
• New bathroom amenities, as well as upgraded showerheads and curved shower rod;
• A new Stay Real training program for all employees; and
• An array of business-focuses amenities: ergonomic work stations in guestrooms, free high-speed Internet access; WiFi and VoIP phone systems with conference-calling capabilities.

The Memphis property also has a Kem’s Restaurant, a full-service outlet named after the brand founder.