White Plains NY WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Jul 13, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) – Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has launched the first prototype hotel for its Four Points by Sheraton brand at San Antonio Northwest. The 130-guestroom Four Points by Sheraton San Antonio Northwest is owned by Galo Properties and managed by DePalma Hotels. According to Starwood, the six-story hotel showcases the Four Points by Sheraton brand's “rejuvenated, contemporary look, complemented by classic and comfortable interior design.”

It is the first of three prototype hotels to open in North America this year as part of a rejuvenation campaign for the brand. In the past five years, Starwood and its partners have invested more than $1 billion to reinvent Four Points by Sheraton resulting in a 70 percent turnover of the portfolio driven by major property renovations, conversions and new-build hotels.

Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President, Four Points by Sheraton, said: "With its versatility, smart layout and cost efficiencies, the new prototype is generating a great deal of enthusiasm among owners and developers, while ensuring that every aspect of the guest experience reflects the Four Points by Sheraton brand's emphasis on uncomplicated comfort and simple sophistication - updated for today."

Highlights of the first Four Points by Sheraton prototype hotel include bright and bold design, clean architectural lines and warm, contemporary furnishings. Facilities include a fitness center, heated outdoor swimming pool, 1400 square-feet of flexible meeting space, and various food and beverage Located across from The University of Texas at San Antonio, Four Points by Sheraton San Antonio Northwest will anchor Promenade Place, a 12-acre, development of offices, shops, coffee bars and restaurants.

www.starwood.com