- Hampton Inn has become the largest US hotel brand, with nearly 350K rooms across 43 countries, by perfecting a dependable, mid-tier experience—centered on free breakfast and consistent quality.
- The chain’s signature waffle, served in more than 2M gallons of batter annually, exemplifies the value-driven, guest-friendly approach that underpins its franchise success.
- Amid a slowing travel market, Hampton is doubling down on international growth, tailoring its “American Mid” formula to fit local tastes in India, China, and Europe.
Just OK—And Proud Of It
Hampton Inn’s rise to hospitality dominance didn’t come from plush pillows or high-thread-count sheets. Instead, it’s built on predictability, free breakfast, and industrial-grade waffles. Owned by Hilton Worldwide Holdings, the brand generated an estimated $12B in revenue last year and outsold its closest rival, Holiday Inn Express, by several million room nights—all while charging guests an average of just $125 per night in the US, as reported by Bloomberg.
The Secret Sauce Is Batter
More than 30M waffles were served across Hamptons last year, despite the brand’s own admission that they’re “not great.” Still, guests love them—especially the DIY ritual of pour, flip, and wait. At under $5 per occupied room, breakfast costs franchisees little but delivers outsized value for families and business travelers alike.
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A Recipe For Franchise Success
Hampton’s growth is inseparable from its franchise-friendly model. With 1,500+ franchisees in the US, the brand wins loyalty through standardized design, high occupancy rates, and operational simplicity. Developers like the predictability. Travelers love the familiarity.
Midscale, Max Impact
From idiotproof alarm clocks to white duvets that scream “clean,” Hampton’s approach is meticulously designed to feel intuitive and safe. Room prototypes focus on what guests actually use—storage, beds, and bathrooms—while amenities like curved shower rods and rounded bed corners reflect decades of guest behavior analysis.
Going Global With ‘American Mid’
While domestic markets become saturated with “meh” hotels, Hampton is looking abroad. With more than 400 locations already in China and plans for 75 in India, the brand is adapting with touches like masala chai waffles and bar-equipped “barceptions” in the UK. In each case, it’s the promise of reliable comfort—not extravagance—that drives appeal.
Built To Weather Storms
As Hilton and others brace for slower travel demand in 2025, Hampton’s low cost and high utility make it recession-resilient. Its franchise model helps absorb risk, while its global growth ambitions provide a new engine for expansion.
Why It Matters
In an industry of diminishing differences, Hampton Inn proves that “good enough” can be great—when it’s paired with consistency, value, and 30M waffles a year. As luxury brands chase glamour, Hampton quietly remains the face of American Mid: not the fanciest, but often the best bet on the road.
What’s Next
Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta believes Hampton can triple its footprint over the next 20 years by capturing the rising global middle class. With tailored offerings for local markets and relentless focus on guest basics, the brand is positioning itself to be the world’s go-to for comfort—and waffles—wherever travelers go.
