THE Econo Lodge Moree Spa Motor Inn in Moree has been named one of Choice Hotels Asia-Pac’s top-performing properties for 2024, earning a prestigious Gold Award.

The motel, owned by Mick and Zelch Cikota, is one of 20 franchisees from a list of more than 300 in the Asian-Pacific region to receive an award, and was recognised for its outstanding performance and dedication to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

“This award is important because it shows all of the hard work we do is paying off,” Mr Cikota said.

“Our guest satisfaction scores are the best they’ve ever been. We’ve completed extensive

renovations and that is starting to pay off.”

Moree is renowned as the Spa Capital of Australia and Econo Lodge Moree Spa Motor Inn sits in a prime location close to spa baths, retail outlets and parkland.

All rooms have undergone recent renovations and the restaurant, damaged by fire in 2022, is now up and running to rave reviews.

Maslina Bar & Grill offers a quality menu, featuring seasonal and local ingredients.

“Customer service is our main focus,” Mr Cikota said.

“Our customers regularly comment on our friendly service and clean rooms, and that all comes down to our staff, who do an incredible job.

“Our restaurant, Maslina, is very popular with guests as well as locals and tourists to Moree, and we are now taking bookings for Valentines’ Day, which this year falls on a Friday – perfect for a night out with loved ones,” he smiled.

The Choice awards recognise exceptional performance and an unmatched dedication to the guest experience across properties in Australia and New Zealand.

By conducting internal awards, Choice Awards Asia-Pac sets the standard for exceptional service, motivating franchisees to continuously strive for more.

Moree Econo Lodge’s gold award serves as a benchmark for excellence within the Choice Hotels network – testament to the property’s dedication and performance throughout the year.

Choice Hotels Asia-Pac CEO Trent Fraser said determining winners is based on a range of rigorous performance metrics, including guest satisfaction, service quality, sustainability initiatives, and operational excellence.

“The Gold Awards recognise the efforts of our top performing franchisees across our five brands in the Asia-Pac region – Ascend Hotel Collection, Clarion, Quality, Comfort and Econo Lodge,” Mr Fraser said.

“They go beyond operational performance, recognising the hotels that are leading the sector when it comes to customer service, sustainability, and embodying the Choice brand values.

“Econo Lodge Moree Spa Motor Inn’s achievements over the past year have been exceptional, and we’re delighted to present this award as testament to the dedication of the entire hotel team in creating memorable experiences for guests each and every day,” he said.