Country Inn and Suites – Omaha Airport has 87 guest rooms and suites. They aim to deliver the amenities of home, while travelers are away from home. We strive to show a level of care that is comfortable and consistent. Located in Carter Lake, IA, the hotel was built in 1997 and is one of the older hotels in the area. They added on to their building in 2007 and have been finishing up renovations throughout 2011 and 2012.
Who are the owners/important executives?
The owners are from Yankton, SD. Operated by Slowey Management Company, they took over operations in January of 2011. Vicki Muschall, the General Manager has been with the property for 14 years. Lacee Sheffield, Assistant General Manager has been with the hotel for 5 years.
What do you think makes you different from other companies similar to yours?
While we are owned by a management company, we operate as a family unit off of our parent company. From the ground up we work fluently with each other, which is truly evident to our guests through our commitment to customer service.
What do you like about doing business in the Omaha area?
Omaha is a growing and thriving city. It is exciting to see the new people always coming and going. Being between the airport and downtown, we get to work with a lot of these travelers. Also being located in Carter Lake, we feel sort of like the link for those entering Omaha from Eppley Airfield.
What kind of community organizations/groups are you involved with?
We are active members of the Greater Omaha Chamber. Currently in the works we are hoping to set up a blood drive to support local blood banks that are in a shortage. During the holiday season, we like to collect winter clothing for children to donate to those in need. We couple with a discount for guests bringing in any of these items.
Do you have a business philosophy or mission statement?
We truly believe in enhancing the guest experience by delivering an added touch of home to travelers, especially those who live out of hotels. We live by the 3 Cs. Caring, Comfortable, and Consistent.
What changes have you seen in the industry and your company in the past few years?
We have seen a rise in younger travelers which has directly correlated with changes in how people are making their reservations from online, to hand held devices. Information travels so quickly; it is a race to keep up. Most travelers demand free wireless connection in their rooms. Lastly, we have seen conversions of hotel lobbies to offer more of a lounge atmosphere for guests rather than just being confined to the rooms.
What do you see happening with the business in the next five years?
With technological advancements, I see booking windows to get even smaller as years go on. Social media to interact with guests, is already huge, and will only continue to grow. Apps that allow guests to check-in and share with friends are rewarded for doing so gives hotels the unlimited potential to reach customers. With the information so readily available, it is a must to stay on top of your game, because the bad news spreads much quicker.
What is one of the biggest challenges that your company has faced?
Our most recent challenge has been all of the construction and renovation that has been taking place at our hotel. We understand it is an inconvenience for our guests, but truly appreciate their patients and understanding as we give our property a facelift. Thankfully we are done with the high traffic areas, such as the lobby, and exterior.
What has been your most important achievement as a business?
The client loyalty we have created. It is great to see guests and groups come back year over year for vacations, events in Omaha, etc. Especially when we get to show them a the improvements we are continually working on.
What is one goal for your business that you have yet to accomplish?
Increase guest loyalty and strive for higher guest satisfaction .
More information about Country Inn & Suites-Omaha Airport can be found online at https://www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/hotels/country-inn-carter-lake-oma-ia