The Tricycle of Guest Service Excellence: A Perfect Model For Remarkable Experiences
Doug Kennedy | October 4th, 2024
Spokane Tribe Resort & Casino Partners With Travel Outlook to Elevate Guest Service Experience
Travel Outlook, The Premier Hotel Call Center™ | October 2nd, 2024
From Revenue to Profit: A Culture Shift in Hotel Commercial Strategy
Otelier | August 8, 2024
Amid challenges like flatlining demand and increased pricing pressure, forward-thinking hotel commercial strategy teams are shifting their focus from driving revenue to driving profitability. By Jason Q. Freed Hospitality Data Evangelist, Otelier As pandemic-induced “revenge travel” wanes and inflation continues to squeeze travelers’ wallets, many hotels are finding rising operating costs are outpacing revenue growth. The result is a widespread decline in profit margins. Given these conditions, for hotel owners and operators, focusing on strategies to drive profitability over the near term is critical. In many cases, this requires ...
Hard Rock International Announces Development of REVERB by Hard Rock Pensacola To Open in 2029
REVERB by Hard Rock® | August 7, 2024
PENSACOLA, Fla., Aug. 7, 2024 -- Today, Hard Rock International announces development plans for REVERB by Hard Rock® Pensacola to break ground in 2026 and open in 2029. REVERB by Hard Rock® is a unique hotel brand designed to be an energetic cultural hub for connection, creation and inspiration among music fans, locals and travelers alike. This will mark the company's sixth REVERB property joining the portfolio, with Atlanta and Hamburg, and Kalamazoo, Tampa, and Scottsdale also being developed. REVERB by Hard Rock® Pensacola will feature more than 125 hotel technology-enhanced rooms, a full-service restaurant, rooftop bar, lo...
Nominate an Individual for the 2024 HFTP Paragon Award
HFTP | August 7, 2024
Each year, HFTP recognizes an individual who has made a lasting impact on the association and industry with the HFTP Paragon Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to both HFTP and the hospitality industry. It will be presented at the HFTP 2024 Annual Convention, taking place October 18-20 at the JW Marriott Indianapolis Hotel in Indianapolis. Do you know someone whose accomplishments should be celebrated? You are invited to nominate a deserving individual by August 16. Submit your nomination via the nomination form. The 2022 Paragon Award winner, Daniel Conti, Jr, CHAE+ stated, ...
Luxury Travel: Trends and Opportunities
Nandika Udupihilla | August 7, 2024
The global luxury travel market is booming. Not only is there an increasing spending by elite travellers to visit new places, but the preference for micro trips, escapism, and experience economy is also giving rise to the rapidly expanding tourism sector across the globe. The market is fuelled by the shifting customer behaviour of paying more for a truly memorable experience. Who is the luxury traveller? Contrary to popular belief, luxury travellers do not always mean “wealthy travellers.” For each group, luxury means a different experience. Aspiring luxury: Often millennials, they are known for being digital savvy and ...
Peachtree Group Promotes Vickie Callahan to President of Hospitality Management Division
Peachtree Group | August 7, 2024
Peachtree Group Promotes Vickie Callahan to President of Hospitality Management Division ATLANTA (Aug. 7, 2024) – Peachtree Group ("Peachtree") today announced that Vickie Callahan has been promoted to president of the firm's hospitality management division. In her new role, Callahan will oversee the company's portfolio of owned and third-party managed hotels, totaling 88 hotels across 27 brands and 11,173 rooms in 23 states and Washington, D.C. "Since joining us in 2020 as senior vice president of revenue generation, Vickie has been an invaluable member of our team," said Greg Friedman, managing principal and CEO of Peachtree Group....
Radisson Debuts in the Heart of the Champagne Region With the Opening of Radisson Hotel Reims
Radisson Hotel Group | August 7, 2024
Brussels - 7 August 2024 Radisson Hotel Group is delighted to announce its debut in the heart of the Champagne region with the opening of Radisson Hotel Reims. This contemporary hotel bolsters the upscale Radisson brand in France, marking its second location in the country. Situated just steps away from the vibrant Halles du Boulingrin and directly opposite the Reims Arena, Radisson Hotel Reims is poised to become a premier destination for travelers seeking a harmonious and enriching travel experience. Designed by the renowned Anna Moussinet, Radisson Hotel Reims seamlessly blends timeless architectural design with modern ae...
Shiji Introduces Seamless Integration With Wi-Q for Enhanced Mobile Ordering
Shiji | August 7, 2024
Adding additional mobile ordering options to Shiji’s Infrasys Cloud POS boosts F&B efficiency, enhances guest experiences, and streamlines operations for hoteliers. ATLANTA, Georgia, United States, August 7, 2024 – Shiji, the global leader in hospitality technology, is thrilled to announce the seamless integration of its Infrasys Cloud POS with Wi-Q, a leading mobile ordering platform for the hospitality industry. The integration facilitates a smooth and unified experience for both guests and hotel operators, significantly simplifying the ordering process and optimizing menu management. With the robust open API capability t...
Hilton Reports Second Quarter Results
Hilton | August 7, 2024
MCLEAN, VA - Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. ("Hilton," "the Company," "we," "us" or "our") (NYSE: HLT) today reported its second quarter 2024 results. Highlights include: Diluted EPS was $1.67 for the second quarter, and diluted EPS, adjusted for special items, was $1.91 Net income was $422 million for the second quarter Adjusted EBITDA was $917 million for the second quarter System-wide comparable RevPAR increased 3.5 percent, on a currency neutral basis, for the second quarter compared to the same period in 2023 Approved 62,700 new rooms for development during the second quarter, bringing our development pipeline to a recor...
Madrid Market Pulse 2024 – Smashing the Rate Ceiling
Cassandre Pene | August 7, 2024
As the capital of Spain, Madrid holds a prominent position as a cultural, economic and political hub in Europe. Its rich history, vibrant arts scene, world-renowned culinary offerings as well as its many corporate head offices and financial institutions attract a diverse range of visitors, including both leisure travellers and business professionals. Additionally, Madrid's strategic location within Spain and its well-connected transportation infrastructure, including its international airport and high-speed rail services, facilitate easy access for both domestic and international travellers. The city's tourism sector, which was heavily impact...
Learning a Bit About Integrated Welltech
Adam and Larry Mogelonsky | August 7, 2024
By Adam and Larry Mogelonsky At HITEC 2024 this past June, one of us (Adam) gave a presentation on wellness technologies (‘welltech’), how they can help hotel organizations grow their businesses and how IT directors are instrumental in making this all happen through effective team management and merchandizing. One important step for all hoteliers is to first learn a bit about wellness and how the body works in order to know what’s right for your brand. For hotel technologists, our everyday jargon is the PMS, CRS, POS, IBE, CRM, BI, AI, ML, PCI, as well as financial KPIs to monitor like GOPPAR, GSS or CPOR. But there’s a whole other ...
Navigating the Complex World of Conversational AI – Part 3
Travel Outlook, the premier hotel call center™ | August 7, 2024
Elevating Hotel Operations with Conversational AI By John Smallwood, President of Travel Outlook August 2024 Recently, we explored how conversational AI, particularly Annette the Virtual Agent™, enhances guest experiences by understanding complex requests, personalizing interactions, and providing multilingual support. In the third part of our series, we will explore Annette's ability to handle a multitude of frequently asked questions (FAQs), route calls to internal departments, and seamlessly transition guests to live agents when needed. Dive in below as we explore the advanced capabilities of Annette, and how she helps your hotel...
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island Completes First Phase of Multimillion-Dollar Renovation
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island | August 7, 2024
ibbon-Cutting Celebration Marks Completion of Phase One of Resort’s Multi-Million-Dollar Transformation; All 340 Guestrooms Now Fully Refreshed, with Stylish Upgrades HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC. – (August 7, 2024) – Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island recently completed phase one of a comprehensive resort renovation program, unveiling its 340 redesigned guestrooms during a July 9th “Find the Light”-themed ribbon-cutting celebration. Inspired by the island’s natural beauty, guestrooms now feature several stylish upgrades and enhancements, serving as a serene backdrop for a breathtaking island escape. "We are thrilled to officially u...
Park Hyatt New York To Launch Multimillion-Dollar Renovation
Park Hyatt New York | August 7, 2024
NEW YORK (August 7, 2024) — Celebrating a decade of unparalleled luxury, Park Hyatt New York is set to undergo a series of enhancements, reinforcing its status as a leading hotel destination on New York City’s exclusive Billionaire’s Row. The multi-million-dollar investment will inaugurate the opulent 3,500-square-foot “Manhattan Suite” on the top floor of the 25-story hotel, introduce the signature Rossano Ferretti salon and Spa Nalai in their new locations, and bring upgrades to the hotel’s premier specialty suites. “We are thrilled to unveil this remarkable transformation as we celebrate our 10th anniversary,” said Laure...
Cordish Gaming Group Names Joshua Robinson as Vice President of Marketing for New $270+ Million Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana
The Cordish Companies | August 7, 2024
Robinson to Lead Strategic Marketing Efforts for the World-Class Gaming and Entertainment Destination Set to Open in Q1 2025 with First Land-Based Casino in the Shreveport-Bossier Market Bossier City, LA (August 7, 2024) – Cordish Gaming Group, the gaming division of The Cordish Companies, has named JOSHUA ROBINSON as Vice President of Marketing for the new Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana. This $270+ million world-class gaming, dining, hotel and entertainment destination is set to debut in Bossier City in Q1 2025, featuring the first land-based casino in the Shreveport-Bossier market. As Vice President of Marketing, Mr. Robinson w...
Hotel Haya Appoints Kal Harris as New Director of Food and Beverage
Hotel Haya | August 7, 2024
TAMPA, Fla. (Aug. 7, 2024) - Hotel Haya, Aparium Hotel Group’s award-winning property located in the heart of Ybor City is pleased to announce the appointment of Kal Harris to Director of Food and Beverage. With over a decade of experience under his belt, the New York-native will bring a new perspective to Flor Fina, Hotel Haya’s upscale Latin-infused restaurant and Cafe Quiquiriqui, the hotel’s café and casual lunch spot. Harris began his hospitality journey at the age of 15 years old in Buffalo, New York. After three years, Harris was completely enamored with the food and beverage industry and progressed to manager at a small re...
AREV St Tropez Appoints Candice Barwell Nassar as General Manager
AREV St Tropez | August 7, 2024
The brand new boutique hotel in St Tropez - AREV St Tropez - is delighted to announce the appointment of Candice Barwell Nassar as General Manager. Candice joins AREV St Tropez with over 30 years of experience in luxury hospitality, having started her career at 17 years old. Most recently, Candice held the position of Director of Operations at Hotel du Palais Biarritz (Unbound Collection by Hyatt), where she expertly oversaw the daily operations of the hotel including front desk, housekeeping, reservations, and guest services, ensuring seamless coordination and delivery of high-end hospitality. She has previously held positions as Directo...
In Canada, Lodging Econometrics Reports a 54% Increase in Projects Under Construction at Q2 2024
Lodging Econometrics ( | August 7, 2024
August 7, 2024 – PORTSMOUTH, NH The Q2 2024 Canada Hotel Construction Pipeline Trend Report from Lodging Econometrics (LE) reveals that at the close of the quarter, there are 322 projects/40,297 rooms in the country’s total pipeline. These record-high project and room counts represent a 17% increase in projects and an 8% increase in rooms year-over-year (YOY). There continues to be a swell of projects under construction in Canada, up an impressive 54% by projects and 51% by rooms YOY, with 80 projects/10,603 rooms at the Q2 close. Projects scheduled to start construction in the next 12 months, at Q2, stand at 80 projects/9,249 rooms...
HFTP Seeks Input for 2024 Compensation and Benefits Report: Survey Available
HFTP | August 6, 2024
For 30+ years, HFTP has produced its biennial Compensation and Benefits Survey Report, whichprovides a comprehensive picture of industry salary and benefits statistics for hospitality accounting, finance and technology professionals. The report helps hospitality managers determine pay scales, benefits and rewards for their employees and themselves. This survey has returned in 2024, and HFTP requests your participation to ensure we produce the most valuable report for our members and industry stakeholders. We rely on feedback from hospitality professionals like you to develop the most accurate statistics on current salary, deferred compen...
Grand Hyatt Kunming Opens in China’s ‘Spring City’
Grand Hyatt | August 6, 2024
The 331-room hotel offers a distinctive luxury retreat in the heart of Kunming, blending elegance and opulence with the essence of Yunnan culture CHICAGO (AUGUST 6, 2024) – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of Grand Hyatt Kunming, marking the debut of the Grand Hyatt brand in the heart of China’s scenic southern Yunnan province, unveiling a new landmark of modern luxury and exceptional service inspired by Yunnan’s rich culture and charm. Housed in Kunming’s prestigious Spring City 66 plaza, Grand Hyatt Kunming, together with Grand Hyatt Residences Kunming, a Grade-A office tower and luxury s...
Hyatt Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results
Hyatt Hotels Corporation | August 6, 2024
CHICAGO (August 6, 2024) - Hyatt Hotels Corporation ("Hyatt" or the "Company") (NYSE: H) today reported second quarter 2024 results. Highlights include: Comparable system-wide hotels RevPAR increased 4.7% compared to the same period in 2023 Comparable system-wide all-inclusive resorts Net Package RevPAR increased 3.0% compared to the same period in 2023 Net Rooms Growth was approximately 4.6% Net Income was $359 million and Adjusted Net Income was $158 million Diluted EPS was $3.46 and Adjusted Diluted EPS was $1.53 Adjusted EBITDA1 was $307 million Pipeline of executed management or franchise contracts was appro...
Hilton Accelerates Expansion Across Portugal With Three New Hotels
Hilton | August 6, 2024
London, UK – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) has today announced plans to open three new hotels in Portugal in 2025 and 2026 under three brands – Canopy by Hilton, Tapestry Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton – as part of the company’s plans to continue expanding its presence in the country. Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development EMEA, Hilton said: “Last year tourist numbers soared to record highs in Portugal and with demand expected to continue, it’s an incredibly attractive hotel investment market. We’re thrilled to have signed three new properties across three of our world-class brands, further expandin...
Valor Hospitality Partners Assumes Management of Hilton Garden Inn Haymarket
VALOR HOSPITALITY PARTNERS | August 6, 2024
ATLANTA, Aug. 6, 2024—Leading global hospitality management company Valor Hospitality Partners continues to grow its global portfolio, assuming operation of the Hilton Garden Inn Haymarket in Haymarket, Virginia. The strategic addition enhances the organization’s commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences in prime locations worldwide. “The addition of the Hilton Garden Inn Haymarket to the Valor portfolio, a hidden gem within the Piedmont region of Virginia proximate to both the Manassas National Battlefield Park and downtown Washington D.C., will allow us to demonstrate our obsession to both creating memorable guest...
Noble Acquires Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront
Noble Investment Group | August 6, 2024
Atlanta, Georgia (Tuesday, August 6, 2024) – Noble Investment Group ("Noble") today announced the acquisition of the Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront. Located on the shores of Jacksonville Beach, the hotel will undergo a comprehensive enhancement to all hotel guestrooms and suites, public areas, and meeting and event spaces. Jacksonville, Florida, is a rapidly growing metropolitan city known for its high quality of life and business-friendly environment. In 2024, new census data shows Jacksonville is among the fastest growing cities in the U.S., and the city was ranked among the list of the best large cities to start a ...
NexGen Hotels Acquires The Cole Hotel in Palm Springs, California
NexGen Hotels | August 6, 2024
NexGen Hotels Expands its Portfolio into the California Market Palm Springs, CA – August 6, 2024 – NexGen Hotels, a hotel development and management company based in Itasca, Illinois, today announced the acquisition of The Cole Hotel in Palm Springs, California. Located at 2323 North Palm Canyon Drive, the boutique hotel will be managed by Genuine Hospitality Group of St. Louis, Missouri. The Cole Hotel is nestled at the base of the majestic San Jacinto Mountains and is the perfect desert oasis whether looking to be laid-back poolside or out for adventure. The 30-room hotel offers guests convenient access to the scenic trails of th...
