Building the Future
Our family-owned and operated properties have been award-winning year after year and can be credited to the talented guidance and commitment of our leadership team and our Darling Family Team Members.
Building a Legacy: Our Journey to Success
The Darling Group has grown into a leading force in the development, entertainment, and hospitality industries. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, we are continuously shaping the future of these sectors.
Our Track Record of Success
With a proud heritage of over 90 years of expertise, shared across four generations of dedicated professionals, our team has successfully developed and/or managed an impressive portfolio, encompassing more than one million square feet of commercial real estate. This extensive experience in the industry not only reflects our commitment to excellence but also highlights our ability to adapt and thrive in a constantly evolving market.
A Legacy of Hospitality
The Darling Group and its family of companies are fourth-generation family-owned and operated businesses with over 90 years of experience in the hospitality industry.
1920's
The Beginning
In May 1929, Arthur and Eileen Darling began their entrepreneurial journey by starting an ice cream shoppe called Dutchland Farms. Arthur, a carpenter by trade, built small ice cream shops throughout New England before purchasing his own franchise.
1940's
Growth and Expansion
1941: The business relocated to 1105 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA, becoming "Eileen Darling's" - starting as a soda fountain serving ice cream and hot dogs.
1948: Arthur and his son Fred Darling built the Town 'n' Country Motel in Seekonk, MA with their own hands - still standing at 1105 Fall River Ave today.
1950s - 1960s
Strategic Property Development
1953: The family expanded by purchasing land across the street to build the Esquire Motel
1960: Construction of Town and Country motel in Taunton, MA
1968: Arthur and his children purchased farmland divided by the new Interstate I-195
1969: Opened the Ramada Inn, one of the area's finest hotels (operated as the Clarion Hotel until 2024)
Business Evolution
Eileen Darling's evolved from a simple hot dog stand into a full-service restaurant and function facility, complete with a gift shop. For 50 years, it was renowned for its comfort foods, baked goods, clam rolls, and signature coconut custard pie. The establishment became a community staple under Arthur and Eileen's management, known as the go-to place for special occasions.
Second Generation Leadership
Frederick and Gloria, Arthur and Eileen's children, grew up working in the family business. Fred focused on development, while Gloria managed the restaurant at Ramada. Frederick, with his wife Audrey, had two children: Lois and Wayne, both of whom went on to continue helping grow the family businesses along with their children.
1980s - 1990s
Diversification and Development
1981: Built Stratford Arms Apartments in Riverside, RI
1988: Constructed warehouses at 50 industrial court
1990: Wayne and Fred built Seekonk Grand Prix in Seekonk, MA
1991: Developed Pace Store (later became Sam's Club, now At Home)
1992: Leased land to TGI Fridays in Seekonk, MA
2000s - Present
2002: Opened Hampton Inn Seekonk, MA
2003: Leased land to Lowes
2009: Opened Hampton Inn Cape Cod West Yarmouth, MA
2016: Leased land to Chick-Fil-A Seekonk, MA
2019: Opened Hampton Inn Cape Cod Canal Bourne, MA
2022: Acquired Water Wizz of Cape Cod in Wareham, MA
2022: Became equity owner in Moonshine Alley Providence, RI
2024: Purchased Tractor Supply and KFC/Taco Bell in Wareham, MA
2024: Developing Black Goose Market Place (including Whole Foods, 94-room Town Place Suites, retail, and food)
Today
Today, The Darling Group continues to expand its portfolio in hotels, commercial real estate, and entertainment. The company's success is attributed to Fred Darling's visionary leadership, providing a strong foundation and invaluable lessons for future generations.
Meet the team
At The Darling Group, our dedicated professionals bring a wealth of experience and passion to every project, ensuring we deliver exceptional service and innovative solutions for our clients.
Trusted by industry-leading brands
Start a rewarding new path with us at Darling Hotels.
If you’re looking to join a team of seasoned professionals committed to delivering outstanding service and know-how, The Darling Group is interested in you.
We are looking for talented individuals to join our team. If you are passionate about the hospitality and entertainment industry, we would love to hear from you. Browse our current job openings and apply today.
FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions about our company's operations, divisions, and contact information.
You can contact us by filling out the contact form or by reaching out to our team directly. We are happy to help you with any questions or requests.
Our core values include integrity, creativity, and excellence. We strive to uphold these values in everything we do, from project development to customer service.
Our company's mission is to develop innovative hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues that provide exceptional experiences for our customers.
We offer a diverse range of services, including development, entertainment, hospitality, financial management, HR, sales, revenue management, operations, and IT solutions and more. Our development team creates unique projects, while our entertainment division manages venues and our hospitality division operates hotels and restaurants. We also provide financial services, HR solutions, and IT support to enhance overall efficiency.
Our company is headquartered in Seekonk, Massachusetts. We have projects and venues located in various cities, providing diverse experiences for our customers.