Shilo Inns is a mid-priced hotel chain operating 43 hotels predominantly on the west coast of the United States, with a large concentration of locations in the state of Oregon. It competes primarily with mid-range, family hotels such as Comfort Inn and Best Western, and today is one of the largest independently owned and operated Hotel companies in the Western United States.[1] Hotels are frequently 2-3 stories and of a gray and blue color scheme, although there are exceptions. Most properties feature swimming pools, spas, and saunas and all now feature free high speed internet and are dog friendly.[2] Selected properties offer room service and a continental breakfast. Some also include a full service Shilo Restaurant, and hotels in Beaverton, Klamath Falls, and Portland, Oregon feature cigar bars. In 2000 it was announced that the hotel chain would be partnering, at least at some locations, with Elmer's restaurants. Elmer's is a western US (mostly in Oregon) general dining restaurant, comparable to Denny's.[3]
Shilo Inns was founded by Mark Hemstreet in 1974.[1] Hemstreet was known for funding conservative political causes and candidates.[4] This funding has been seen as an issue for boycotts of the hotel chain but may have played into the chain's financial fortunes. The first location opened in Portland, Oregon, and reached 47 locations in 2001.[5] The company began franchising locations in July 2001.[6] In March 2002, 27 Shilo Inns sought voluntary Chapter 11 reorganization protection, due to adverse effects on the travel industry stemming from the September 11 terrorist attacks.[7][8] On March 31, 2003, however, the company successfully emerged from bankruptcy.[9] By June 2007, the company operated 43 hotels all located in the Western United States.[10]