Hotel Sogo, tada !
The franchise has grown fast, faster than a disease. First, you might think it’s Victoria Court simply rebranding its name, but it’s not even though they have almost the same logo. Expanding and competing branch numbers with McDonalds, Sogo has been a temporary haven for lovers (and cheaters haha). You might just catch your cheating partner probably in here. They prefer here compared to some unsanitized, stinky motels.
Sogo has different rooms. Garage rooms are for those who have cars, people won’t see you checked in because it directly leads you to the room. The walk-ins are those who need to check in through the counter. The difference of course is the privacy, price and amenities of the room. Also there’s food that you can order inside and a menu on the counter top of each room.
SOGO was established by two individuals in 1992. One was a hotel professional who was involved in the hotel industry for 20 years and the other was a commercial developer and a contractor with an “AAA” license. What does AAA stand for? American Automobile Association: an organisation in the U.S. that gives help and information to drivers who are members of it..
The word “Sogo” was included as part of the hotel’s chain name which means “harmony” and adopted a Japanese theme. In the Philippines, the hotel brand brought many innovations to the hospitality industry by introducing free wifi, giving skateboards to the floor personnel, and launching a 24/7 call center. In 2016, Hotel Sogo launched the hoverboard-based service. The waiters of the hotel chain are using the self-balancing two-wheel electrical motorised boards, locally known as hoverboard for F&B drive-in services. But you won’t see that anymore. February 2019, Hotel Sogo launched a new, simpler design throughout its branded locations. February 1993, they opened the first Hotel Sogo with the primary commitment of providing guests with top-notch lodging facilities and services which anchor on the following values: Cleanliness, Innovation, Efficiency, Courtesy, Discipline, and Teamwork
Meanwhile, the term “motel” originated with the Motel Inn of San Luis Obispo, originally called the Milestone Mo-Tel, which was constructed in 1925 by Arthur Heineman. In conceiving of a name for his hotel, Heineman abbreviated motor hotel to mo-tel after he could not fit the words “Milestone Motor Hotel” on his rooftop.
Here in the Philippines , whenever you see red signage first that one can think is SOGO, it is well advertised and very popular amongst chains of motels.
There was an advertisement endorsed by now Senator Robin Padilla, kapag mahal mo i-SOGO MO, so clean, so good. Sprouting like mushrooms you will never miss to see one when you’re walking or traveling , there’s SOGO in every block. It is known to be very affordable but actually most of the room fees are not. But if you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford a hotel it’s wiser to check in here. Motels are branded for a quick stay but families can also stay especially if you’re visiting from another place and you don’t have a place to stay in. And they’re offering discounts if you came from a trip . You can show your plane ticket and voila they will cut a portion of your bill. No longer sure if it’s 10%or more . It is a good business , temporary shelter for people. More affordable and very visible because it’s everywhere. If you are planning to get rich venture on business like this. For sure it’s a success. So if ever you need a place to stay, SOGO it is!
