From Motel Kid to Hotel Owner: Pritesh Patel

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, I sit down with Pritesh Patel, the owner of Hotel Pommier in Indianola and Chariton, Iowa. Pritesh’s journey from growing up in a motel to rebranding and revitalizing independent hotels is as much a story of grit as it is of vision.

Pritesh’s family emigrated from the UK to the U.S. in 1999, moving straight into a motel where his parents worked as live-in managers. He recalls helping fold towels and clean rooms on weekends, squeezing in soccer games between laundry runs. His parents later bought their own motels, including the former Apple Tree Inn in Indianola, while instilling in him a relentless work ethic and an appreciation for self-employment.

After college, Pritesh spent a decade in the corporate world before returning in 2019 to take over the family business. He made it clear to his parents that if he was going to run the operation, he needed to be the decision-maker. That shift set the stage for bold moves—taking on significant renovation debt, rebranding the hotel to “Pommier” (French for apple tree), and building a brand identity grounded in community connection.

The conversation covers how COVID-19 hit mid-renovation, with cancellations pouring in from opera fans, sports teams, and events like the Balloon Classic. One loyal guest even paid for a stay they couldn’t take, a gesture that still moves Pritesh. He explains why rebranding was key—not just for marketing but to escape the drag of old online reviews—and how branding exercises shaped the hotel’s guest promise and values.

Pritesh also shares his philosophy on amenities, swapping underused fitness centers for game rooms and patios, and even adding a pickleball court in Chariton that locals can rent. These choices aren’t just about guest experience—they invite the community into the space, creating word-of-mouth ambassadors.

We talk about the economics of running independent hotels, the advantages over chains, and why mid-size Iowa towns are ripe for transformation. Pritesh emphasizes the value of hiring the right people, paying competitive wages, and offering benefits like 401(k) matches to compete with big employers.

As we wrap up, Pritesh reflects on planting his business roots in Iowa: the friendliness, the pace of life, and the community support that makes ambitious projects possible. His story is a testament to blending entrepreneurial courage with a deep respect for place—a combination that’s breathing new life into local hospitality.