HMSHost, Bethesda, MD
Dick Knickerbocker, Director of Procurement & Distribution

Today's consumers are paying more and more attention to sustainable, environmentally friendly initiatives - and rewarding companies that are embracing the trend. Avendra is extremely aware of the importance of this initiative at the customer level and is focused on providing supplier solutions in this area. One approach to developing an eco-friendly business is attaining LEED certification from the United States Green Building Council.

LEED - or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design - is recognized internationally as a green building certification system that aids business owners in developing and measuring green building design, operations, maintenance and supply chain solutions.

However, LEED certification is more than just a method for identifying ways to create a more environmentally healthy operation - it can cut operating costs and increase asset value, conserve energy and water, create a healthier and safer environment for guests and allow businesses to qualify for tax rebates and other incentives.

Moreover, LEED certification demonstrates a commitment to innovation, something HMSHost knows a bit about. In 2011, the company finished the lengthy project of designing, facilitating and opening the Delaware Welcome Center, a LEED-certified structure where travelers can rest while on the road. The building is located along the state's section of Interstate 95 just minutes from Wilmington, Delaware, and provides guests with restaurants, ATMs and travel information desks.

Avendra worked closely with HMSHost, one of its valued customers, to assist them in qualifying for LEED certification. Avendra worked collaboratively with HMSHost and Ecolab on some important aspects needed to source products, ensure they were in distribution and complete the project on time.

"Avendra put us in contact with a representative at Ecolab that deals directly with helping establishments become LEED-certified," said Dick Knickerbocker, Director of Procurement & Distribution at HMSHost. "From there, Ecolab supplied us with eco-friendly chemicals that we used to promote a more environmentally impacting stance even during the sanitation process - in turn, helping us gain LEED certification for the structure."

Since the opening of the Delaware Welcome Center, HMSHost has made it a priority to continue to purchase old structures, level the complexes and convert them into LEED-certified rest centers for travelers. While they have made a large impact in Canada, the Delaware Welcome Center was the first of its kind in the United States.

"With the help of Avendra and Ecolab, we were able to bring the project together," added Knickerbocker. "Having the ability to sanitize facilities with less environmentally harmful materials will help us going forward in opening more structures like the Delaware Welcome Center in other parts of the country."

Avendra's commitment to meeting its customers' needs results in constant innovation, enhanced customer relationships and improved supplier connections. Are you ready to take advantage of the resources that Avendra can offer you? Fill out an information request form to learn more.