Standard International is the latest hotel brand to announce that is temporarily closing as the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues. Last week, CEO Amar Lalvani revealed in a statement that the company would close four locations: the Standard High Line, the Standard East Village, the Standard Miami, and the Standard London.
“It was gut wrenching because hotels, and our hotels in particular, are anchors of their neighborhoods. Unlike restaurants, we never close. Ever,” the statement reads. “We are the places where people feel safe. Where people come together. To eat, drink, stay, play, and enjoy each other’s company. To live life to the fullest. Where locals mingle with visitors to our remarkable city. And where our staff makes it their job to take care of all who come, to welcome and delight them.”
The Standard established an employee relief fund, Standard Stands Together, to help support employees displaced by the pandemic.
On March 23rd, Ace Hotel Group temporarily suspended operations at several of its properties, including Ace Hotel New York, Ace Hotel Pittsburgh, Ace Hotel Chicago, Ace Hotel London, and Sister City. In a press release, the brand promised further updates as the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic progresses.
“This decision was difficult, emotional, and one we took very seriously, knowing the acute impact it will have on our teams,” the release reads. “Our industry has been severely affected by this global crisis. Many hotels are facing the same challenges and increasingly having to make the critical decision to suspend operations. It’s our hope that the sooner this is contained, the sooner we can resume hotel operations and bring everyone back. This is especially tough because we have always been a safe space for others and can’t be that right now.”
The company also established the Ace Family Fund, a new program dedicated to directly supporting Ace Hotel Group staff members. The release also urged readers to contact representatives about the consideration of hospitality workers in a comprehensive relief program.
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