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Mike Merchant
Board Director
Mike Merchant was elected to the BWH® Hotels Board of Directors in 2021 to represent the interests of hotel owners in California, Nevada and Hawaii. He also previously served as a governor, a key leadership role within the brand.
Mr. Merchant is President and CEO of Merchant Valley Corporation, which owns and operates multiple hotels throughout California. Since 2000, he and his wife have developed, owned and operated five Best Western® hotels including: the Best Western Big Country Inn in Coalinga, California; the Best Western Apricot Inn in Firebaugh, California; the Best Western Colonial Inn in Selma, California; and the Best Western Plus Coalinga Inn & Suites in Coalinga, California – a recipient of the prestigious Best Western M.K. Guertin Award, an award designated to the highest performing properties with the brand. Mr. Merchant recently expanded his portfolio by adding a BW Signature Collection® hotel in Seabrook, Texas. BW Signature Collection is part of BWH Hotels’ growing collection of independent hotels known for their unique identity and character.
Mr. Merchant brings significant industry experience to his role on the Board of Directors. In addition to his more than 30 years of hospitality experience, he is a seasoned veteran in commercial real estate and is actively involved in the development and management of commercial shopping centers in Illinois, South Carolina, North Dakota and Louisiana.
Additionally, Mr. Merchant is deeply engaged in his local community, contributing his time and expertise to organizations supporting underserved populations in developing countries. He is also passionate about mentoring young entrepreneurs, sharing insights on launching small businesses, securing financing from financial institutions and guiding first-time homebuyers in achieving their dream of home ownership.
Mr. Merchant has been married to his wife, Amy, for 32 years, and they are the proud parents of three grown children who have embraced the family’s entrepreneurial spirit. Their eldest daughter, Senya, owns a thriving fitness studio in Atlanta, Georgia, while their daughter Sareena and son Aamir have joined the family business, playing key roles in managing hotel operations.