HFTP® Acquires Leading Hospitality Industry Brands: Hospitality Upgrade, Hotel-Online, The CIO Summit and The Executive Vendor Summit
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals | June 25, 2024
Industry Happenings
AAHOA Members Testify on New York City Council’s Proposed Safe Hotels Act
AAHOA | October 10, 2024
NEW YORK CITY, October 10, 2024—AAHOA (Asian American Hotel Owners Association) joined forces with industry leaders and organizations on Wednesday, October 9, at New York City Hall to rally against the proposed Safe Hotels Act (Int. No. 991-B). The act, introduced by the New York City Council, has drawn widespread criticism for what many see as an attempt to impose unionization on the hotel industry. This rally follows a similar demonstration last month, which drew over 1,500 attendees in opposition. The proposed act would require hotels to obtain an additional operating license and prohibit the use of subcontractors for core functions ...
Hotel and Hospitality Professionals Unite to Oppose Intro 991 at City Hall Press Conference
The American Hotel & Lodging Association | October 10, 2024
NEW YORK CITY (October 10, 2024) – Today, hundreds of hotel and hospitality professionals gathered on the steps of City Hall to voice their opposition to Intro 991, the so-called “Safe Hotels Act.” The press conference brought together representatives from across the hospitality sector who highlighted the severe consequences this bill would have on New York City’s hotels, subcontractors, and small businesses. Intro 991, though claiming to be a safety measure, actually introduces costly operational mandates that threaten the survival of the city’s hotels, placing more than 265,000 jobs and billions in tax revenue at risk. Speaker...
Tropicana Las Vegas Says Final Farewell With Historic Implosion, Making Way for A’s Ballpark and Bally’s Entertainment Resort
Bally's Corporation | October 9, 2024
LAS VEGAS, Oct. 9, 2024-- In a dazzling finale that lit up the Las Vegas skyline, the legendary Tropicana Las Vegas bid farewell with a breathtaking display of fireworks and a 555-drone show, culminating in a 22-second implosion at 2:30 a.m. PT. The demolition marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for Las Vegas, paving the way for the A's state-of-the-art ballpark and a world-class entertainment resort in partnership with Bally's Corporation, a cornerstone of Vegas hospitality and gaming. "Bally's is honored to have been part of this historic moment, bidding farewell to the iconic Tropicana," said Soo Kim, ch...
Statistics, Sustainability and Governance: UN Tourism Hosts Week of Meetings to Celebrate Milestones and Strategize on Way Forward
UN Tourism | October 9, 2024
With the global tourism sector shifting towards greater sustainability, the meetings at the Organization’s Madrid headquarters advanced work around effective governance and harmonized measurement and monitoring. Statistics for Sustainability The Expert Group on Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST) met for the fifth time, moving on from the technical development of the landmark UN-endorsed Statistical Framework to its global implementation. Endorsed by the 55th session of the UN Statistical Commission, this framework is the first sectoral example of statistics going beyond GDP, demonstrating the integration of data across eco...
WTTC 24th Global Summit 2024 Officially Opens in Perth, Australia
The World Travel & Tourism Council | October 9, 2024
Perth, Australia: The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has officially opened its 24th Global Summit in the heart of Western Australia’s vibrant capital, Perth (Boorloo). Gathering industry leaders, government officials, and distinguished guests from across the globe, the summit aims to set the strategic direction for the future of the Travel & Tourism sector. In her keynote address, WTTC President & CEO, Julia Simpson, underscored the significance of holding the summit in Perth, a city renowned for its historical connection to the world of exploration, its deep ties to Indigenous heritage, and its modern role as a globa...
Park Hyatt Brand Debuts in the UK With the Opening of Park Hyatt London River Thames
Park Hyatt | October 8, 2024
CHICAGO (October 8, 2024) – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the opening of Park Hyatt London River Thames, marking the debut of the Park Hyatt brand in the United Kingdom. Located in an exclusive riverside location in the fast-transforming South West London district of Nine Elms, the property boasts unparalleled views of London’s skyline, combining residential charm with sophistication in complete harmony. Park Hyatt London River Thames will offer 203 guestrooms, in a prime location that allows guests to fulfill their diverse desires for culture, exploration and creativity. Just a short walk from Battersea Power S...
HFTP India Chapter to Host the Inaugural CIO Summit in Goa
HFTP India Chapter | October 8, 2024
The Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) India Chapter is excited to announce its inaugural CIO Summit, scheduled for October 14-16, 2024, at the luxurious Taj Cidade Heritage, Goa. This landmark event will bring together industry leaders, technology innovators, and hospitality executives to delve into the rapidly evolving technological landscape within the hospitality sector. The HFTP India Chapter CIO Summit is designed to tackle the current challenges and opportunities faced by CIOs and technology leaders, while promoting best practices for integrating innovative technology solutions in hospitality enterprises. Attend...
Travelers’ Biometric Embrace
Ryan Propis | October 8, 2024
In less than two years, the United States, along with Canada and Mexico, will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup—the largest in history. This event kicks off a decade of global sporting events—from soccer, to F1 racing, to rugby, and two Olympics—that will be hosted in this country, ultimately resulting in high levels of attention and large volumes of international travelers. All coming on top of a growing travel sector that has proven resilient after the challenges of Covid-19 and has helped drive a remarkable economic recovery. These events will simultaneously increase international visitors by millions and spur domestic travel dema...
HFTP Donates $25,000 to American Red Cross for Hurricane Relief Efforts
HFTP | October 7, 2024
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) announced today a donation of $25,000 to the American Red Cross in support of the relief efforts for communities affected by Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton. This contribution is made through HFTP's philanthropic initiative, HFTP Helps, which aims to assist those in need. Hurricanes Debby and Helene have caused significant devastation across the U.S. Southeast, impacting numerous lives and livelihoods. And approaching is Hurricane Milton, which is expected to make landfall this week on Florida’s Gulf Coast. In response to the urgent need for assistance, HFTP is committed...
Choice Hotels International Unveils Exclusive and Proprietary “Lobby in a Box” to Streamline Extended Stay Hotel Conversions and Elevate t
Choice Hotels International, Inc. | October 7, 2024
NORTH BETHESDA, Md., Oct. 7, 2024 -- Choice Hotels International, Inc., one of the largest hotel franchisors in the world, is expanding its portfolio of innovative solutions for its extended stay hotel conversions with the introduction of Lobby in a Box—a proprietary and exclusive to Choice modular design package that allows hoteliers to transform public spaces such as lobby dining areas into multi-functional, revenue-generating spaces in as little as 120 days for its Suburban Studios and MainStay Suites brands Delivered in a ready-to-assemble crate, Lobby in a Box empowers hotel owners to easily adapt their lobby spaces to meet the ...
Commitment to Knowledge: HFTP Celebrates Robert Mandelbaum’s Impact in Hospitality Research
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals | October 7, 2024
Robert Mandelbaum, Research Director at CBRE Hotel Research, has long been a leader and educator in hospitality financial research and a dedicated contributor to HFTP. It is with great honor that HFTP will present Mandelbaum with the 2024 HFTP Paragon Award, recognizing his significant and lasting contributions to both the association and the hospitality industry. Mandelbaum will receive the award during the HFTP 2024 Annual Convention at the Keynote Session on October 23. "It is so special to receive this recognition from the volunteer leaders and professional staff at HFTP,” said Mandelbaum. “I know how much time and effort they ...
Marriott International Secures Legal Victory Against Fraudulent Robocall Operators
Marriott International, Inc. | October 7, 2024
In a significant legal victory, Marriott International, Inc. (Marriott) has successfully concluded a lawsuit in federal court in Virginia against perpetrators responsible for tens of millions of illegal and fraudulent robocalls to consumers, misusing the Marriott name and the names of its portfolio of brands. Marriott initially filed the case as a “John Doe” lawsuit in May 2021, against anonymous bad actors who were exploiting Marriott’s brands for their own commercial gain and violating both state and federal laws. The entities behind these unlawful robocalls persuaded consumers to purchase vacation and timeshare promotions, false...
Marriott International Secures Legal Victory Against Fraudulent Robocall Operators
Marriott International, Inc. | October 4, 2024
In a significant legal victory, Marriott International, Inc. (Marriott) has successfully concluded a lawsuit in federal court in Virginia against perpetrators responsible for tens of millions of illegal and fraudulent robocalls to consumers, misusing the Marriott name and the names of its portfolio of brands. Marriott initially filed the case as a “John Doe” lawsuit in May 2021, against anonymous bad actors who were exploiting Marriott’s brands for their own commercial gain and violating both state and federal laws. The entities behind these unlawful robocalls persuaded consumers to purchase vacation and timeshare promotions, false...
AHLA, Hotel Industry Leaders Remain Opposed to Revised NYC Hotel Licensing Bill
AHLA | October 3, 2024
WASHINGTON (Oct. 3, 2024) – After New York City Councilwoman Julie Menin shared a new version of her hotel licensing bill with industry stakeholders, hotel industry leaders released the following statements: “While we appreciate the Councilwoman’s willingness to listen to industry feedback and work toward more sensible outcomes for New York City’s hotels, the new version of the legislation still contains language that will cause significant economic harm – primarily to small, family-owned hotels and the largely immigrant and minority-owned businesses that support them. There is no question that this bill, if passed, will cause ...
Upcoming HFTP Annual Convention Features Top Hotelier Panelists, Featured in New HFTP Academy Micro-Certificate Program
HFTP | October 2, 2024
October 2, 2024 (Austin, Texas) – A highlight of the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals’ (HFTP®) upcoming Annual Convention is the session, “Navigating Challenges in 2025: How Hotel Owners and Management Companies Can Collaborate Successfully.” Speaking on the panel are top hoteliers John Murray, president and CEO for Sonesta International Hotels Corp. and Blair Wills, president and CEO for StepStone Hospitality. Scheduled for October 23, the conversation will be moderated by Robert Mandelbaum, research director for CBRE Hotels Research and a director on the HFTP Global Board. The Annual Convention is October 23...
How Hotels Are Displaying Resort Fees in the Wake of CA’s Junk Fee Law
Genevieve Horchler | October 1, 2024
Not sure how to present resort or amenity fees on your booking engine? See concrete examples of how other hotels are adapting to the hospitality industry's new pricing regulations. By Genevieve Horchler In July 2024, the California Junk Fee Law was passed with the goal of eliminating the confusion surrounding hidden fees in the hospitality industry. This legislation requires hotels and other hospitality players to provide transparent pricing upfront, with mandatory add-ons like resort fees included in the advertised price. While hotels now need to show resort fees upfront, that doesn’t mean there’s only one way to do so. We too...
NEWH, Inc. To Celebrate Official 40th Anniversary at BDNY 2024
NEWH, Inc. | October 1, 2024
Shawano, WI — November 1, 2024 — NEWH, Inc. (Network of Executive Women in Hospitality), a premier association committed to scholarships, advancing education, mentorship, and networking in the hospitality industry, will proudly celebrate its 40th anniversary at BDNY 2024, held at the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City. The organization will award multiple scholarships and accolades to hospitality professionals during engaging events from November 8-11, 2024. “Each year BDNY creates an atmosphere of camaraderie and excitement that allows both emerging and established professionals to connect, fostering opportunities to advance...
U.S. Travel Association Commends Congress for Avoiding Government Shutdown, Urges Long-Term Funding Solutions
U.S. Travel Association | September 26, 2024
WASHINGTON (September 26, 2024)—U.S. Travel Association commends Congress for its bipartisan effort to pass a short-term Continuing Resolution to keep the federal government open and funded through December 20. This crucial action prevented a government shutdown that would have cost the U.S. travel economy an estimated $140 million per day. U.S. Travel Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy Tori Emerson Barnes released the following statement: "We appreciate Congress’ important steps to avoid a shutdown, but the country simply cannot afford the uncertainty of temporary funding resolutions. As we look beyond the November el...
HSMAI Century Campaign Update: One Year into Building a Bridge to Our Brightest Future
HSMAI Foundation | September 26, 2024
McLean, VA (Sept. 26, 2024) – The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Foundation proudly marks the one-year anniversary of its Century Campaign, a five-year fundraising initiative set to culminate in the organization’s 100th anniversary on September 22, 2027. As we mark the 97th anniversary of the founding of the association in 1927, the Century Campaign seeks to generate awareness around HSMAI’s legacy and future, showcasing the organization's enduring contributions to the hospitality industry. Funds from the campaign will go to key initiatives that align with HSMAI’s mission to drive industry innova...
HFTP 2024 Annual Business Meeting Scheduled for Thursday, October 24 at Annual Convention
HFTP | September 25, 2024
The HFTP 2024 Annual Business Meeting will take place Thursday, October 24 in conjunction with the association's Annual Convention at the Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino in Uncasville, CT USA. Running 4:30–5:30 p.m. local time, attendees will hear the various accomplishments of HFTP from the past year and what to expect from the association over the next year. In addition, the 2024–2025 leadership will be installed. What: HFTP 2024 Annual Business Meeting When: Thursday, October 24 | 4:30–5:30 p.m. Where: Cabaret at the Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino Who: All HFTP members are invited to attend. Be sure to register for the HFT...
AAHOA Members Gather in D.C. to Tackle Critical Hotel Industry Issues During Key Election Year
AAHOA | September 25, 2024
WASHINGTON, D.C., September 25, 2024 – With 468 seats in the U.S. Congress (33 Senate seats and all 435 House seats) and the U.S. presidency up for grabs this November, the stakes have never been higher for the hotel industry. This year's AAHOA (Asian American Hotel Owners Association) Fall National Advocacy Conference (FNAC) underscored hoteliers' critical role in shaping policies impacting their businesses and the broader hospitality sector. On September 18 and 19, some 200 AAHOA Members and leaders came together in Washington, D.C., to spotlight the most urgent issues impacting hotel owners across the country. During nearly 200 meeti...
Over 200 Hoteliers To Lobby Congress for Hotel and Consumer Friendly Policies
AHLA | September 24, 2024
WASHINGTON (Sept. 24, 2024) – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) this week is hosting its annual Hotels on the Hill fly-in event, which will draw more than 200 hoteliers and industry leaders from 36 states to Capitol Hill to lobby for a variety of important policies. The Sept. 24-25 event will include meetings with members and staff from more than 150 House and Senate offices. America’s nearly 64,000 hotels are a bright spot for America’s economy and include more than 33,000 small businesses. The hotel industry supports nearly 1 in 25 American jobs, and in 2024, hotels are projected to pay employees a record $123 ...
California Lodging Investment Conference [CLIC] Announces Eighth Annual Gathering
The California Lodging Investment Conference | September 24, 2024
Newport Beach , Cali., Sept. 24, 2024—Officials of the California Lodging Investment Conference [CLIC], the only hospitality conference focused on the California hotel market, today announced that the eighth annual event will take place March 5-6, 2025, at the Westin Long Beach in Long Beach, Calif. “We already have a full agenda, and we’re still in the planning stages,” said Craig Sullivan, founder and president, [CLIC]. “From the Lodging Econometrics-CLIC California Hotel Development Deals of the Year at the opening night reception to Lifetime Achievement Awards presented during the sessions, we once again are taking the opport...
The Hospitality Show Wins Trade Show Executive Gold 100 Grand Award for Best New Launch
AHLA | September 23, 2024
New York/Washington (Sept. 23, 2024) — The Hospitality Show, the groundbreaking event designed to empower the hospitality industry produced by Questex and the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), has been awarded the prestigious Trade Show Executive Gold 100 Grand Award for Best New Event Launch 2023. This recognition underscores the show's success in bringing together the diverse facets of the hospitality industry through an innovative and impactful format. Launched with the singular mission to help the hospitality industry operate more efficiently and profitably, The Hospitality Show achieved remarkable success in its ...
