If Sunil Wadhwani,McAllen, TX, entrepreneur, enters your hotel to ‘check in on things with the management team’, it doesn’t mean you’re in trouble. In fact, Wadhwani just does that on a daily basis: visits each of his eight, soon to be nine, establishments to ensure optimal operating procedures.

This simple visit is one of the reasons the hotelier’s company is consistently recognized as Franchise of the Year for La Quinta and Motel 6.

But a story of success rarely begins with success, and such is the case for Sunil Wadhwani. From a devoted sports fan with no planned direction to the owner of a multi-million dollar company, the Asian-born Texan would be surprised as a child to see where he ended up — but endlessly proud and pleased.

So, what makes Wadhwani’s story the quintessence of the American Dream? Every journey needs its flavors: a pinch of humility, a dash of passion mixed with an unmatched drive and ambition for success. The end product? A mastery in hospitality.

The Roots of Hospitality: The Upbringing of Sunil Wadhwani

Like many other success story subjects, Sunil Wadhwani wasn’t handed his fortune on a silver platter. A native of Asia, the Wadhwani family’s immigration to the States was a life-altering experience for the then-six-year-old. He knew little about ‘making it’ in a new land, as did his parents. 

Nevertheless, their roots expanded from modest living as retail/wholesale store owners. The family was quick to experience financial travails, but the American Dream, as they believed, was very in line with the route they followed. “[My parents] came to this country with $100 to their name and struggled and failed and succeeded…and truly lived the American Dream. They are my heroes and all the inspiration…If I am a success, then [sic] it’s due to them…”

Perhaps this musing is what drove Sunil’s own desire to succeed. Even without a college degree, the boy was poised to begin his entrepreneurial journey after watching his parents go through the motions. 

The Spreading of Hospitality: Sunil Wadhwani’s Early Entrepreneurship

While Sunil Wadhwani of McAllen, TX, did not attend college, he doesn’t appear to regret that decision. He instead chose to learn the ins and outs of the business world by watching his parents. By 25, he relocated to McAllen, Texas, started a family with his high school sweetheart, and opened his first retail store.

Specializing in electronics and fine watches, Wadhwani’s retail store went through the ebbs and flows of modernization. He ventured into online retail, a career pivot that saw him rendezvous with prominent companies like Amazon. This period saw the arrival of Sunil’s first child, bringing him unmatched contentment as his business continued to expand.

Modernization, however, became a significant challenge to face. Amazon and other online commerce companies threatened his business, and Sunil eventually had to sell off his online store. But what he wasn’t aware of is that this very move would lead him directly to his success.

The Honing of Hospitality: Sunil Wadhwani’s Rise as a Hotelier

Moving away from e-commerce, Sunil Wadhwani found himself in the real estate business just before a housing crisis, ultimately ending his newest venture. Unsure of where to look, he received an opportunity within the hospitality industry in 2000 and accepted the invitation with open arms.

Sunil seized a new opportunity that would shape his career trajectory—becoming a franchisee with La Quinta Inn & Suites. This marked the starting point of Wadhwani’s career as a hotelier. In Pharr, Texas, he inaugurated a 65-room inn, which would eventually pave the way for a thriving hotel empire.

His dive into the realm of hospitality proved to be a strategic move. Over the years, Sunil expanded his influence by forging partnerships with renowned hotel brands, including a significant collaboration with Marriott in 2020 to open the TownePlace Suites San Antonio Northwest at The RIM, a 109-suite extended-stay hotel.

The Sharing of Hospitality: What Makes a Good Hotelier?

Sunil Wadhwani’s success as a hotelier extends beyond the standards of his establishments. What sets him apart is not just the number of rooms he manages or the prestigious brands he aligns with but his commitment to the principles of hospitality. Sunil’s approach goes beyond providing comfortable accommodations; it’s about creating memorable guest experiences.

His hands-on involvement, from collaborating with management teams to personally interacting with vendors, reflects a dedication to ensuring that every aspect of the guest experience meets the highest standards.

A key element in Sunil’s recipe for success is the emphasis on adaptability. His journey of ups and downs showcases a dynamic approach to business. 

Beyond the financial achievements and accolades, Sunil Wadhwani’s odyssey is rooted in a vision for empowerment. He aspires to expand his portfolio and inspire others to pursue their dreams within the hospitality industry.

“Always first is my Family, my children, and grandchildren. Second, is the inspiration of watching my parents build a successful and happy life from nothing. And finally, I want to help my family, friends, and associates succeed.”

So, if you see Sunil Wadhwani, stop by to check in; remember, it’s just part of the job. 

Published by: Nelly Chavez