Econo Lodge has been a trusted brand for over 45 years, with a character and personality that fills guests’ internal and external needs to perfection. Econo Lodge is a mature brand that is truly loved by its customers. Econo Lodge has always been about making it easy for our guest. The idea was born in 1969, in Norfolk, Virginia. A new business category was created around the premise than an innovative and affordable, cost-effective business hotel could thrive. And thrive it did. The first hotel was built for $275,000. Within 21 days, it was profitable. The initial hotel had 48 rooms, a modest lobby and a basic manager apartment. Costs were simplified and a number of significant innovations such as automatic switchboards and non-smoking rooms were introduced.