Steward Rubin, Director of Sales and Marketing, Hilton Embassy Suites

The Hilton Embassy Suites is the fifth Hilton in the Montreal area. Why the fifth?

Steward Rubin - It's important to remember that the Embassy Suites, which has 210 suites with kitchens, is mainly geared towards business customers, but doesn't forget families. It's only the second in Canada, and the first in a major metropolis, the other being on the outskirts of Toronto. We felt it was absolutely essential to open a hotel close to the Palais des Congrès de Montréal. Our clientele is made up of 25 % delegates, 25 % families and 50 % corporate groups.

Does this mean that things are moving in Montreal?

S. R. - Of course. Between now and 2012, more and more conferences are expected, each attracting between 1,500 and 2,000 people. Until now, there haven't been enough hotels to accommodate that many people at once. What's more, nearby Old Montreal was also woefully short of hotels.

In a few months' time, your next-door neighbour, the Westin, will be opening its doors. Are you worried about competition?

S. R. - That's not the way to look at it. On the contrary, the opening of another major hotel is a sign of good economic health. These openings also correspond to the conversion of old buildings, which is breathing new life into the district and attracting even more visitors.