Analysis-Companies Boost Social and Climate Reporting Amid ESG Backlash
November 4th, 2024
Sydney’s Iconic Hotel Woolstore 1888 to Join Accor’s New Handwritten Collection
ACCOR | May 6, 2024
ACCOR SELECTED TO OPERATE SYDNEY’S ICONIC HOTEL WOOLSTORE 1888 UNDER ITS NEW BOUTIQUE HANDWRITTEN COLLECTION BRAND Accor announced today that one of Sydney’s finest heritage hotels, Hotel Woolstore 1888, is joining its portfolio of Handwritten Collection hotels in May 2024 under a hotel management agreement with the hotel’s new owners Shakespeare Property Group. The iconic Darling Harbour property was originally built in 1888 and is the fourth oldest of 21 surviving wool stores in Sydney, however, with its contemporary design and industrial-chic interiors with modern and pop art, nothing is old-fashioned about this hotel. First open...
Accor Partners With Red Panda Property for 2027 Opening of Pullman Launceston in Tasmania
ACCOR | May 6, 2024
ACCOR ANNOUNCES DEBUT OF PULLMAN BRAND IN TASMANIA NEW PULLMAN HOTEL TO PRESERVE HERITAGE WHILE ADDING CUTTING-EDGE ACCOMMODATION, DINING AND MEETING FACILITIES TO CREATE DYNAMIC ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURAL HUB FOR LAUNCESTON Tasmanian urban regeneration specialists, Red Panda Property, announced today that Accor, Australia’s largest hotel operator, will manage its first hotel project - a five-star Pullman hotel in the heart of Launceston – under a hotel management agreement. Designed by one of Asia-Pacific’s leading design practices, DKO, the $45 million Pullman Launceston will regenerate a heritage-listed educational building i...
Pacifica Hotels Unveils Guestroom Renovation of Jamaica Bay Inn
Pacifica Hotels | May 6, 2024
The waterfront Southern California property completed updates to all 111 guest rooms & suites Aliso Viejo, CA - May 6, 2024 - Pacifica Hotels, the owner and operator of Jamaica Bay Inn, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, recently completed the total renovation of all guest rooms and suites at the ideally-situated waterfront property in Marina del Rey, Calif. Pacifica Hotels is the largest owner and operator of independent, design-inspired hotels on the Pacific Coast. Helmed by Norah Shimer of Pacifica Design Group, the thoughtfully updated guest rooms at Jamaica Bay Inn include new wall coverings, carpet, paint, drapery, lighting, art ...
Marriott’s Sheraton Suites Galleria Atlanta Unveils $12 Million Renovation
Highline Hospitality Partners | May 6, 2024
Hotel’s transformation ushers in a new era of hospitality in the heart of Atlanta ATLANTA, Ga – May 6, 2024 – Marriott’s Sheraton Suites Galleria Atlanta proudly announces the completion of its $12 million renovation, marking a new era of luxury and comfort for guests. The comprehensive renovation breathes new life into every facet of the guest experience. Guest suites exude sophistication and comfort with new carpeting, beds, bedding, furniture, artwork, and upgraded bathrooms. The lobby and restaurant boast a refreshed, modern aesthetic with ample seating and a welcoming ambiance, perfect for work or leisure. “With this ...
Labor as We Know It Is Changing: How Hoteliers Can Fill the Gap
Elad Inbar | May 6, 2024
By Elad Inbar Hotels with Wi-Fi and televisions were, at one point, unimaginable for hoteliers, but as technology evolved, it became necessary for the hospitality industry to follow. Today, we are in the middle of an AI revolution — one that meets resistance from skeptics — but history has shown that early adopters of technology have kept hotels running by adapting to changing consumer needs. Clearly, new technology pays off. Recent research is showing that the robotics market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 12.29 percent in the next seven years, exceeding $225 billion in 2030. With operations being impacted by short staffing and ch...
Hawai‘i Passes Landmark Legislation to Rein In Illegal Short-Term Rentals, Help Keep Housing Affordable for Aloha State Residents
AHLA | May 6, 2024
Law ensures local control over lodging taxes and regulations WASHINGTON (May 6, 2024) – Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green today signed into law landmark legislation (SB 2919) that grants local governments the power to regulate short-term rentals to meet the needs of their communities. This legislation will give localities the power to rein in short-term rentals that have taken over local communities and bring back affordable housing for hotel employees and other Hawai‘i residents. The law ensures Hawai‘i counties have the authority to tax and regulate short-term rentals by the same standards as hotels, designate them as a non-residential ...
AHLA Statement on Presidential Veto of Legislation to Overturn Joint-Employer Rule
AHLA | May 6, 2024
WASHINGTON (May 6, 2024) – American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey released the following statement after President Biden vetoed legislation that would have overturned the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) dangerous joint-employer rule: “We’re disappointed the president vetoed this bill and ignored the serious concerns of AHLA’s 30,000-plus members, the courts, and Democrats and Republicans in Congress,” said AHLA Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey. “Thankfully, a federal court has already intervened and is blocking the administration from implementing its job-kil...
AHLA Workforce Report: Hotels Add 1,200 Jobs in April
AHLA | May 6, 2024
WASHINGTON (May 6, 2024) – U.S. hotels added 1,200 jobs to their payrolls in April, according to the latest government data that shows employment in the industry is still far from pre-pandemic levels. Total hotel employment stands at about 1.92 million, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s 193,600 fewer workers in the industry than in February 2020, just before the pandemic hit. “Hotels are doing all they can to attract and retain workers, but the nationwide workforce shortage is preventing our industry from reaching its full potential,” said AHLA Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey. “AHLA members need...
AAHOA Engages Arkansas Insurance Commissioner to Tackle Insurance Challenges Facing Hoteliers
AAHOA | May 6, 2024
Little Rock, Ar., May 6 – AAHOA (Asian American Hotel Owners Association) recently hosted a Hospitality Insurance Forum with leaders in Arkansas to address the industry's significant insurance challenges plaguing hoteliers. The forum centered on developing creative strategies to alleviate the burden of insurance premiums, facilitating greater access to insurance resources, and fostering an environment of increased accessibility. To advocate for the interests of its diverse membership base, AAHOA assembled more than 30 hoteliers, all of whom were lifetime members of the association, to provide critical insights and challenges that small b...
Millennials and Their Top Five Expectations in Hotels
Estefania Lozada Pinedo | May 6, 2024
By Estefania Lozada Pinedo The rise of the millennial generation (of which I am one) has led to a significant shift in consumer behavior, especially in the travel and tourism industry. I have noticed that millennials prioritize experiences over material possessions, redefining the parameters of satisfaction and fulfillment. As millennials become the most frequent travelers of our time, the hospitality industry must adapt its offerings to align with their unique preferences. This article explores the top five trends millennials look for when staying in a hotel and what aspects can make a millennial consider your place. Instagrammable S...
Radisson Blu Aruba Announces Return of General Manager, Luigi Wix
Radisson Blu Aruba | May 2, 2024
Palm Beach, Aruba [May 2, 2024] – Radisson Blu Aruba is thrilled to announce the return of Luigi Wix as General Manager. Luigi previously served as the pre-opening and opening General Manager of Radisson Blu Aruba, guiding the resort through its early days of establishment. Under Luigi’s previous tenure, he demonstrated resilience and adaptability in navigating the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, playing an integral role in the resort’s mid-pandemic opening, laying a solid foundation for its success. As the resort recently celebrated its third anniversary since opening on April 2, 2021, Luigi’s return signals a new chapter ...
Driftwood Capital Acquires 225-Key Marriott Raleigh Durham Research Triangle Park
Driftwood Capital | May 2, 2024
DURHAM, NC (May 2, 2024) – Driftwood Capital (“Driftwood”), a vertically integrated commercial hospitality real estate firm, announces the acquisition of the Marriott Raleigh Durham Research Triangle Park (“Hotel”), a 225-key full-service, upper-upscale hotel located in North Carolina’s prestigious Research Triangle area. Driftwood will carry out an extensive renovation project to enhance numerous features throughout the Hotel. Franklin BSP Realty Trust originated a multimillion, two-year loan with three one-year extension options at a competitive interest rate. "The acquisition of Marriott Raleigh Durham Research Triangle P...
Tempo by Hilton Louisville Downtown NuLu Opens in Kentucky With 130 Guestrooms
Tempo by Hilton | May 2, 2024
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 2, 2024) - - - Designed for the rhythm of life, Tempo by Hilton Louisville Downtown NuLu opens its doors May 1, as the third property to open nationally from Hilton’s new stylish contemporary lifestyle brand. The 130-room hotel echoes the surrounding upbeat NuLu neighborhood with lively settings for social gatherings and events for locals and travelers alike, as well as stylish spaces to rest and recharge. Refuel at the hotel’s two dining options — Moonsong Bar + Café on the first floor and High Stakes Grill, a full-service rooftop restaurant and event space with stellar skyline views. Named one of the 50 best p...
IHG Hotels & Resorts Expands Luxury & Lifestyle Footprint in Saudi Arabia With a New Hotel Indigo Signing
IHG | May 2, 2024
Enabled by the Tourism Development Fund (TDF), the partnership between IHG and Refad will bring a unique hospitality experience to Al Khobar Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, May 02, 2024: IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with Refad Real estate investment & development company part of Abdulhadi AlQahtani, sons group Company to bring Hotel Indigo & Residences Al Khobar to Saudi Arabia by September 2027. In line with its commitment to fostering collaboration between its partners, TDF has facilitated the recent signing that will contribute to the...
Sean Olmstead Appointed General Manager for NYC’s Dream Downtown
Dream Downtown | May 2, 2024
NEW YORK, NY (May 2nd, 2024) – Dream Downtown, a lifestyle hotel with a talented staff that knows the ins and outs of New York City, announces the appointment of Sean Olmstead as the new General Manager. With over 24 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Olmstead brings a wealth of knowledge from his previous roles to Dream, focusing on upholding the hotel’s reputation as a premier lifestyle brand, maximizing revenue, and overseeing day-to-day operations. From a young age, Olmstead was passionate about service and hospitality, leading with positivity and looking forward to learning and collaborating with others. “I am th...
AHLA Foundation Hosts Annual ForWard Conference to Advance Women in Hospitality
AHLA Foundation | May 2, 2024
2024 event boasted record attendance CHICAGO (May 2, 2024) – AHLA Foundation hosted nearly 1,000 attendees from across the hotel industry at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place for the annual ForWard conference this week. Over three days, industry leaders gathered to share knowledge and hear from dynamic speakers focused on celebrating, championing, and creating community for women in hospitality. This year’s conference theme, “Right the Narrative,” centered on the power of storytelling and the importance of amplifying the stories and voices of women in the hotel industry. Keynote speakers during the two-day conference...
voco Sarasota Opens Following Official Rebrand and Renovation
IHG Hotels & Resorts | May 2, 2024
2 May 2024 (Sarasota, Fla.): voco hotels – part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies – today announces the official opening of voco Sarasota following a recent rebrand and renovation. The 95-room hotel, managed by Aimbridge Hospitality LLC, marks voco’s second property in the sunshine state. The name, voco, originates from Latin, meaning ‘to invite’ and ‘call together’ – reflecting the brand’s thoughtful, unstuffy and charming nature. Located in the city’s Rosemary District and just steps from downtown, voco Sarasota combines familiar comforts of home with the indulgences of a hotel,...
U.S. Hotel Results for Week Ending 27 April
CoStar Group | May 2, 2024
WASHINGTON – 2 May 2024 – As expected with Passover, U.S. hotel performance came in lower than the previous week and comparable period last year, according to CoStar’s latest data through 27 April. CoStar is a leading provider of online real estate marketplaces, information and analytics in the property markets. 21-27 April 2024 (percentage change from comparable week in 2023): Occupancy: 65.7% (-1.2%) Average daily rate (ADR): US$154.44 (-1.3%) Revenue per available room (RevPAR): US$101.42 (-2.5%) Among the Top 25 Markets, Seattle reported the only double-digit increase in occupancy (+15.6% to 74.6%). Detroit,...
Make the Complicated Simple
Shep Hyken | May 2, 2024
By Shep Hyken Earlier this year, I wrote an article about the hard work it takes to make something look easy. I quoted several people from sports, entertainment and business. The gist of the article was that we work hard to make doing business with us easy. Consider the quote I used from Steve Jobs of Apple, who said, “It takes a lot of hard work to make something look simple.” Notice that Jobs’ quote uses the word simple. Sometimes, people confuse simple with easy, and it’s important to recognize the difference between the two words. So, let’s take this concept to the next level. It’s not only about making some...
The Prince Kitano New York Appoints Peter Yeung as General Manager
Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide | May 2, 2024
NEW YORK (May 2, 2024) – The Prince Kitano New York today announces the appointment of Peter Yeung as general manager. Following a multi-year renovation, The Prince Kitano New York officially reopened in December 2023 within the Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts portfolio, marking the first property in the continental U.S. for Japanese hospitality company Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide Inc. In his new role, Peter will oversee day-to-day operations, lead the onsite team to ensure the highest level of service and uphold the property’s decades-long reputation for delivering personalized experiences. Peter joins The Prince Kitano New York ...
Navigating the Future of Extended-Stay Hotels: Opportunities and Challenges
Ned Washburn | May 2, 2024
By Ned Washburn The extended-stay hotel sector has experienced a remarkable evolution over the past decade, emerging as a significant component of the hospitality industry. This growth is driven by a unique blend of benefits for both guests and investors, strategic design elements, and its adaptation to the changing dynamics of travel and work. However, like any burgeoning sector, it faces its own set of challenges and opportunities, particularly in the contexts of economic development, rising costs, and global industry impacts. Extended-stay hotels offer a distinct value proposition to guests, providing a home-like environment with ame...
Host Hotels & Resorts Acquires 1 Hotel Nashville and Embassy Suites By Hilton Nashville Downtown
HOST HOTELS & RESORTS | May 2, 2024
BETHESDA, Md., May 02, 2024 -- Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. (NASDAQ: HST) (the “Company”), the nation’s largest lodging real estate investment trust, today announced that it has acquired the fee simple interest in a two-hotel complex comprising the 215-room 1 Hotel Nashville and the 506-room Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville Downtown (together, the “Property”) for approximately $530 million in cash. The acquisition price represents a 12.6x EBITDA multiple or a cap rate of approximately 7.4% on the Property’s 2024 estimated results1. The Property is expected to be among Host’s top-25 assets based on estimated full year 2024 ...
Marriott International Reports First Quarter 2024 Results
Marriott International, Inc. | May 2, 2024
First quarter 2024 comparable systemwide constant dollar RevPAR increased 4.2 percent worldwide, 1.5 percent in the U.S. & Canada, and 11.1 percent in international markets, compared to the 2023 first quarter; First quarter reported diluted EPS totaled $1.93, compared to reported diluted EPS of $2.43 in the year-ago quarter. First quarter adjusted diluted EPS totaled $2.13, compared to first quarter 2023 adjusted diluted EPS of $2.09; First quarter reported net income totaled $564 million, compared to reported net income of $757 million in the year-ago quarter. First quarter adjusted net income totaled $620 million, compared to...
NTTO Releases International Travel Statistics for Calendar Year 2023
National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) | May 2, 2024
International Visitor Arrivals of 66.5 million Increased 31% from 2022 Overseas Visitation to Four States/Territories Exceeded Visitation in 2019 Data recently released by the National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) show that in Calendar Year 2023: International Visitor Arrivals to the United States in 2023 Total international visitor arrivals1 of 66.5 million in 2023 increased 15.7 million (+31%) from 50.8 million in 2022 to a level 84% of the 79.4 million arrivals in 2019. Annual international arrivals from 2000 to 2023 covering all countries and world regions are available on NTTO's ADIS/I-94 Visitor Arrivals Program p...
