Destination Hotels & Resorts
Mike Shutts, Vice President of Corporate Engineering
John Spomer, Vice president of Operations and Managing Director

The 39 properties within the Destination Hotels & Resorts portfolio are anything but predictable. As the fifth largest hospitality management company in the nation, Destination strategically highlights the unique features of each asset -- many of which include golf courses, spas and event facilities.

How does an experienced developer and operator like Destination benefit from Avendra’s range of food and beverage, engineering and golf programs?

“I would describe our relationship as robust,” offers Mike Shutts, vice president of corporate engineering. “What I appreciate about Avendra is that they are very open to questions and ideas. Their focus is on problem-solving, which is what I want in a business partner.”

As it turns out, while Destination values diversity in each locale, they appreciate the consistency Avendra brings in terms of supplier accountability. “The time saved on an individual level is huge,” adds Mike. “I’ve had pricing, service, and warranty problems solved, literally, with a phone call. Avendra starts conversations at a higher level.”

From Kitchen Equipment to Trans Fats

John Spomer, vice president of operations and managing director, agrees; as a full-scope purchasing partner, Avendra helps Destination “buy better, smarter, faster.” How?

“As we refurbish,” he explains. “Avendra’s Replenishment Group is our first source when we need FF&E replacement items, not simply because they have a full range of items but because they are industry experts. They’ve saved us lots of time and money.”

As an example of “full-bodied” service, John cites support for the initiative to eliminate trans fats from all Destination Hotels & Resorts menus. Avendra worked hard to replace items for cooking, frying, baking and also alternative packaged goods. “They not only sourced the items, they educated us on the issue,” says John.

In fact, he continues, information is one of Avendra’s key products. “I distribute their monthly Cost Outlook to everyone who does purchasing,” he concludes. “It makes us smarter planners and buyers.”  Using Cost Outlook as a forward looking food pricing publication, Destination has immediate help with menu planning and cost control. Just one example of better buying, smarter buying.