New Castle Hotels & Resorts, a privately owned company founded in 1980, manages distinctive upscale hotels under major national franchises including Marriott, Hilton, Westin and Sheraton brands. Additionally, its hotel management portfolio includes unique independent properties, many of them heritage properties, which are positioned with strong one-of-a-kind identities. The company currently manages 21 properties, including projects under development, for third-party owners as well as for partnerships in which it participates as a managing member. New Castle operated properties achieved a combined market share premium of 110 percent in 2003. It has been recognized as one of the top 10 companies in the United States for its ability to generate REVPAR. The company is headquartered in Shelton, Conn.