S & S Hotels, Inc. is a multi-generational hospitality company with a legacy that began in 1987 under the vision of Bachubhai P. Patel. That year, Bachubhai embarked on a journey to secure a brighter future for himself and his family. Leaving a small village in India with his eldest daughter, Rekha Patel, he arrived in Chicago, Illinois, where he was welcomed by his brother, Ishwar, who provided temporary lodging. With limited resources, Bachubhai secured employment in a factory, enduring challenging working conditions to support his family.

In 1988, after diligent saving, Bachubhai reunited with his wife, Kamla, and their two sons, bringing them from India to a modest apartment on Springfield and Avery in Chicago. The family shared the space with extended relatives, and both Bachubhai and Kamla took factory jobs, commuting over an hour each way via multiple buses. Language barriers occasionally led to navigational challenges, but their determination remained unwavering. Over four years, earning an average of $3.40 per hour combined, they saved enough to purchase their first home—a modest 1,200-square-foot residence in the suburbs. While proximity to key landmarks was an advantage, urban life posed challenges for their sons, prompting Bachubhai and Kamla to seek a fresh start.

In 2001, the family made a pivotal investment by acquiring The Cooper Motel in Tuscola, Illinois. This acquisition marked the inception of their business and provided a healthier environment for the family. Initially resistant, sons Ray and Raj eventually embraced their parents’ vision. After inheriting the motel, they dedicated themselves to its improvement—overseeing renovations, enhancing sales, and prioritizing exceptional customer service. Through resourceful negotiations with other hotels, they acquired updated furnishings, elevating the motel’s appeal.

In 2006, Raj expanded the family portfolio by purchasing a shuttered hotel in West Branch, Iowa. This milestone was overshadowed by the tragic passing of Bachubhai later that year, a loss attributed to years of labor in harsh factory conditions. Following a period of mourning, Raj and Ray channeled their energy into revitalizing the West Branch property. Within three months of reopening, occupancy soared from negligible to 100%. The addition of a basement lounge boosted revenue and fostered customer loyalty, while its strategic location off Interstate 80 attracted travelers. Over the years, extensive renovations—including a modernized front desk, revamped guest bathrooms, and updated bedrooms—transformed the property into a source of family pride.

Between 2011 and 2013, the brothers acquired three Wyndham-branded hotels, applying their proven formula of renovation, revenue growth, and guest retention. By forging corporate partnerships in Muscatine, they secured sustained business through repeat clientele. In 2014, they purchased the Baymont Inn and Suites in Iowa City/Coralville, a property in a bustling college town requiring significant upgrades. Committing to 12-hour workdays, seven days a week, Raj managed operations and front desk duties, while Ray oversaw finances and renovation design. Their efforts included room refurbishments and a $250,000 remodel of the breakfast area and lobby, enhancing the hotel’s marketability.

The end of 2017 marked a significant milestone with the acquisition of their first Radisson hotel, thrusting the company into the upscale hospitality sector. The brothers adeptly reduced operational costs while maintaining quality. In 2018, they expanded further with a hotel in Lincoln, Nebraska, followed by two additional properties in the Quad Cities later that year. Today, Raj and Ray remain committed to their family-oriented business model, focusing on operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and continued growth.

S & S Hotels, Inc. stands as a testament to resilience, hard work, and a steadfast dedication to building a legacy of hospitality.