Lodging

APRIL 19, 2024

WASHINGTON—Helped by the total solar eclipse, U.S. hotel performance increased from the previous week, according to CoStar’s latest data through April 13, 2024. U.S. Hotel Performance April 7-13, 2024 Percentage change from comparable week in 2023:Occupancy: 65.8 percent (up 2.8 percent)ADR: $160.20 (up 2.9 percent)RevPAR: $105.48 (up 5.8 percent) Among the Top 25 Markets, Philadelphia reported the largest year-over-year increase in occupancy (up 23.2 percent to 77.0 percent) and RevPAR (u

Occupancy 162

Occupancy Hotels Market Marketing 162

Lodging

APRIL 19, 2024

CARMEL, California—Carmel Valley Ranch announced the completion of a multimillion-dollar renovation project that updates the guest experience. The renovations encompass enhancements across the resort, including The Ranch’s Valley Kitchen restaurant; the Think Tank meeting venue; and River Ranch, the resort’s spot for sports and family-friendly fun “We are excited to welcome guests back to a new and revitalized resort experience,” said Ulrich Samietz, managing director of Carmel Valley Ranch.

Resorts 162

Resorts Management Hotels 162

Lodging

APRIL 19, 2024

BETHESDA, Maryland—Stayntouch announced a new partnership with Gale Miami Hotel and Residences, a 51-story, 688-room hybrid apartment/hotel in downtown Miami, Florida, set to open its doors on May 1, 2024. Gale Miami offers a blend of hotel and apartment living with modern hotel rooms, apartments, condos, dining venues, and a spa. To provide operational efficiency, Gale Miami selected Stayntouch to deploy its cloud PMS, booking engine, smart kiosk, and secure ID-scanning technology.

Dining 162

Dining Hotels Operations 162

Lodging

APRIL 18, 2024

BOSTON, Massachusetts—Maverick Hotels and Restaurants announced that it has added The York Beach Surf Club and The Sea Latch Inn, both located in York Beach, Maine, to its portfolio of properties managed. The announcement was made by Robin Kirk, president of Maverick Hotels and Restaurants. The York Beach Surf Club is York’s newly renovated full-service oceanfront resort and hotel.

Management 162

Management Accommodation Hotels Resorts 162

Lodging

APRIL 18, 2024

ATLANTA, Georgia—Davidson Hospitality Group announced its renewed commitment to sustainability and conservational efforts through streamlined engineering management, strategic operational partnerships, food and beverage programs, and differentiated guest experiences. “Staying true to our core value of ‘Create Value in All that You Do,’ we are continually focused on identifying areas within our portfolio to save, reuse, and conserve,” said Davidson Hospitality Group CEO Thom Geshay.

Hospitality 162

Hospitality Operations Management Hotels 162

Lodging

APRIL 18, 2024

NEW YORK—IHG Hotels & Resorts launched Apple AirPlay in the first phase of hotel rooms, giving guests the ability to stream content privately from their iPhone or iPad to the TV in their guestrooms. AirPlay is available at more than 60 hotels in North America, including properties like InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta, Hotel Indigo NYC Downtown – Wall Street, and Holiday Inn & Suites Ottawa Kanata.

Resorts 278

Resorts Hotels Hospitality 278

Lodging

APRIL 18, 2024

Cvent announced the appointment of Andreas Heckmann as chief customer officer. In this role, Heckmann will lead Cvent’s global client services organization and spearhead initiatives that enhance Cvent’s customer experience and scale. Concord Hospitality welcomed Marsha Ray as executive vice president of operations. Ray brings over three decades of hospitality experience to the role.

Scale 162

Scale Hospitality Sales Operations 162

Lodging

APRIL 18, 2024

BOSTON—JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group announced that it arranged the $171 million sale of the Hilton Back Bay hotel, a 390-key hotel in Boston. JLL worked on behalf of the seller, Ashford Hospitality Trust, and procured the buyer, a joint venture between Certares and Belcourt Capital Partners. JLL also secured acquisition financing for the buyer.

Sales 162

Sales Hotels Hospitality Services 162

Lodging

APRIL 17, 2024

LONDON—IHG Hotels & Resorts continued the growth of its newest midscale conversion brand Garner hotels, now available across IHG’s Europe, Middle East, Asia & Africa (EMEAA) region. This marks a milestone towards Garner reaching its goal of more than 500 hotels in the next 10 years, and 1,000 hotels over the next 20 years. This follows IHG’s announcement at the International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF) in Berlin, of a long-term agreement with NOVUM Hospitality to […] The po

Branding 162

Branding Resorts Hospitality Hotels 162

Lodging

APRIL 17, 2024

The meetings and events business continues to draw visitors from around the world to the most desired destinations. The path back seems smoother than ever for hoteliers who are getting their groove back. Indeed, the meetings industry continues to be an essential revenue driver for increasing profitability for hotels of almost any size. For meeting planners, however, the story may be a little different.

Events 293

Events Revenue Business Hotels 293

Lodging

APRIL 17, 2024

PARSIPPANY, New Jersey—Designed for businesses of all types and sizes, the Wyndham Business program manages companies’ travel needs with the all-new Wyndham Rewards Business, a B2B extension of Wyndham’s rewards program. Enrolled companies can earn points on qualified business stays while taking advantage of existing and new benefits including room discounts, direct billing, hands-on account support, and more.

Business 173

Business Management Travel B2B 173

Lodging

APRIL 17, 2024

WASHINGTON—The volume of U.S. hotel rooms under construction grew year over year for the first time since June 2023, according to CoStar’s March 2024 data. U.S. Hotel PipelineMarch 2024 Percentage change from March 2023In construction: 156,525 rooms (up 1.5 percent)Final planning: 263,316 rooms (up 9.8 percent)Planning: 324,522 rooms (up 39.5 percent) “While the number of rooms in construction has grown, that figure remains below what was seen prior to the pandemic,” said Isaac Collazo, ST

Construction 288

Construction Hotels Market Marketing 288

Lodging

APRIL 2, 2024

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is expanding into the upscale extended stay segment, launching a strategic relationship with industry innovator WaterWalk. The deal adds 11 hotels and over 1,500 rooms to the Wyndham ecosystem, rebranding them under the newly created WaterWalk Extended Stay by Wyndham brand, the 25th in Wyndham’s portfolio. Located in key markets such as Tucson, Jacksonville and Wichita, the offerings perfectly compliment Wyndham’s existing economy and midscale extended stay brands a

Branding 130

Branding Resorts Market Marketing 130

Lodging

APRIL 1, 2024

NEW YORK—Selina Hospitality PLC announced recent updates to its executive leadership team. Gadi Hassin has been promoted to chief operating officer (COO), where he oversees the operational, commercial, and financial performance of Selina’s hotel portfolio. Hassin joined Selina in 2020 as managing partner of the APAC region where he was responsible for regional expansion.

Operations 173

Operations Hospitality Management Hotels 173

Lodging

APRIL 1, 2024

NEW YORK—JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group announced that it arranged the sale of the 127-room Hyatt Place Pittsburgh Airport / Robinson Mall in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. JLL worked on behalf of the seller and procured the buyer. The hotel is primarily supported by airport demand. It also has proximity to Pittsburgh destinations such as Acrisure Stadium, the Pittsburgh Zoo, Settlers Cabin Park, S&T Bank Music Park, PPG Arena, and the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden.

Sales 173

Sales Hospitality Real Estate Hotels 173

Lodging

APRIL 1, 2024

As AAHOACON ’24 is poised to kick off, the association is celebrating 35 years since its formation and what marked the dawning of a new day for Asian American hoteliers. Similarly, it’s the ‘dawning’ of a new day for one of its earliest supporters, the Days Inn by Wyndham brand, which recently ramped up the rollout of its Dawn rooms package. Wyndham and the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) have been intertwined since the […] The post The Dawning of a New Days Inn appeared fi

Branding 290

Branding Hotels Events 290

Lodging

APRIL 1, 2024

Hoteliers in 2024 are facing the prospect of three new federal rules that could dramatically impact our industry. The American Hotel & Lodging Association is working to mitigate or overturn these rules. But hoteliers should be taking steps now to prepare for possible changes, which could raise labor costs, make it harder to hire independent contractors, and make franchisors liable for labor issues at franchisee locations.

Hiring 286

Hiring Hotels 286

Lodging

APRIL 1, 2024

PRINCETON, New Jersey—Graduate Hotels announced that its latest hotel in Princeton, New Jersey is accepting reservations ahead of its opening in early June 2024. This property marks the 34th hotel in the brand’s portfolio. Graduate Princeton will have 180 guestrooms, as well as a signature food and beverage offering and nearly 6,000 square feet of public space decorated in the brand’s maximalist style.

Hotels 298

Hotels 298

Lodging

MARCH 29, 2024

ARLINGTON, Virginia—Knowland and Thynk announced a strategic partnership in which data from Thynk’s hospitality CRM solution will be integrated with Knowland’s meetings and events database. The collaboration of these two solutions will enable sellers to work efficiently while making market share gains. The collaboration includes: Jeff Bzdawka, CEO, Knowland, said, “Expanding Knowland’s data-driven analytics platform with rich data like Thynk provides is a key pillar for enriching our datas

Market Share 162

Market Share Events Market Marketing 162

Lodging

MARCH 28, 2024

The portmanteau “bleisure”—a mashup of “business” and “leisure”—denotes a phenomenon for our time, a time when technology makes it possible to work, even long-term, from locations that can be explored for pleasure when off the clock, often with partners and families. Seven hotel executives recently described for LODGING the emergence and evolution of bleisure, and how their respective properties are making the most of it: The comments of these hospitality insiders reflect the growing prevalence

Hotels 298

Hotels Business Hospitality Travel 298

Lodging

MARCH 28, 2024

STOCKHOLM—ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions has announced that it is acquiring Nomadix, Inc. and GlobalReach in the United States and the United Kingdom. With both organizations joining ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions, the combination of technology, resources, and expertise is set to provide a single source for security access, user authentication, WiFi software/hardware, and analytics.

Business 269

Business Hospitality Hotels 269

Lodging

MARCH 28, 2024

Expotel Hospitality announced Bret Chittenden, formerly the firm’s chief operating officer, has become its new president. Chittenden has been part of the company since its inception in 1999. He will be responsible for driving the company’s overall development and growth. Crestline Hotels & Resorts, LLC announced the appointment of Leah McFarland as senior vice president of revenue strategy.

Revenue Management 173

Revenue Management Revenue Resorts Operations 173

Lodging

MARCH 27, 2024

RICHMOND, Virginia—Apple Hospitality REIT, Inc. announced the acquisition of the 234-room AC Hotel by Marriott Washington DC Convention Center for approximately $116.8 million, or $499,000 per key. “We are pleased to expand our portfolio with the acquisition of the AC Hotel Washington DC Convention Center and are thrilled to establish a presence in downtown Washington, D.C., a market we have tracked and wanted to have a presence in for some time,” said Nelson Knight, president, […] The pos

Hospitality 162

Hospitality Hotels Market Marketing 162

Lodging

MARCH 27, 2024

GREENVILLE, South Carolina—Ben Campbell has transitioned from chief operating officer to president and CEO. Hospitality America Founder and CEO Chris Cargen has retired and will assume the newly created position of chairman of the Board. Just weeks into his term, Campbell is leading the company, which includes growing from 17 hotels to 40 hotels in less than 10 years; expanding its portfolio to include more lifestyle and full-service brands; investing in tools and technologies for […] The

Hospitality 162

Hospitality Operations Services Branding 162

Lodging

MARCH 27, 2024

What initially inspired you to get into the hospitality business? As an attorney in private practice, I represented hotel and restaurant owners in all aspects of their businesses. When I made the decision to pivot careers, I was drawn to the energy around the hospitality industry and how impactful the industry is on our communities and also the individual experiences for each guest.

Business 182

Business Hospitality Travel Hotels 182

Lodging

MARCH 27, 2024

ATLANTA—IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the availability of new prototype options for its three suites brands—Staybridge Suites, Candlewood Suites, and Atwell Suites. By expanding design choices, IHG provides flexibility for developers across site configurations and market types while maintaining the experiences guests expect in the suites space.

Branding 289

Branding Resorts Market Marketing 289

Lodging

MARCH 26, 2024

SALT LAKE CITY—LivAway Suites has started construction on their next project in Renton, Washington, just minutes from SeaTac International Airport and downtown Seattle. Following the announcements of a new LivAway Suites groundbreaking in Syracuse, New York, the appointment of Lori DeLeon as the new vice president of national sales, and the recent launch of its reservation system, the hospitality group is now bringing LivAway Suites to the Greater Seattle area. “The Renton area is home [&#

Construction 173

Construction Sales Hospitality Hotels 173

Lodging

MARCH 26, 2024

What initially inspired you to get into the hospitality business? Prior to joining the hospitality industry, I was a consultant who spent countless nights on the road. I saw first-hand how important it was to my routine to have a warm welcome and a great guest experience. I saw that this is an industry that is ultimately about taking care of people, and that’s a mission I believe in.

Hospitality 290

Hospitality Business Hotels 290

Lodging

MARCH 26, 2024

Hampton by Hilton celebrated the opening of its 3000th hotel. The Hampton brand is known for its several hospitality mainstays, such as hot breakfast with The Hampton Waffle, all-white bedding, and curved shower rods. In addition to the opening of its 3000th hotel, this year marks a year of milestones for Hampton, including the brand’s 40th anniversary, entry into its 40th country, and a groundbreaking entry into its fifth continent, Africa.

Hotels 299

Hotels Branding Hospitality 299

Lodging

MARCH 26, 2024

RALEIGH, North Carolina, and NASHVILLE, Tennessee—Allbridge announced its certification as a Uniguest Digital Engagement Platform installation and reseller partner for North American hospitality and senior living customers. This partnership marks the organization’s commitment to deliver solutions to create experiences for senior living residents and hotel guests.

Services 162

Services Hospitality Management Hotels 162

Lodging

MARCH 13, 2024

What initially inspired you to get into the hospitality business? I have always loved meeting new people, learning about their unique backgrounds and cultures, and hearing what motivates others. I’m proud to work in an industry that, at its core, is about people. Even more so, it’s inspiring to be a part of a company like Marriott that has “Putting People First” as one of its core values.

Business 64

Business Hospitality 64

Lodging

MARCH 13, 2024

WASHINGTON—Recent research commissioned by AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), projects robust demand for hotel industry jobs over the next five years, outpacing overall market job growth. The AHLA Foundation asked Lightcast for data on demographic and growth trends that would identify and map career pathways in the hotel and lodging industry.

Market 279

Market Marketing Hotels 279

Lodging

MARCH 11, 2024

JACKSONVILLE, Florida—AC Hotels by Marriott opened the AC Hotel by Marriott Jacksonville St. Johns Town Center—located within Northeast Florida’s outdoor shopping, dining, and lifestyle destination—and welcomed its first guests on March 6, 2024. The four-story hotel comprises 118 guestrooms; a fitness center; 1,500 square feet of meeting space, including a private boardroom; an activated AC Lounge; and a fresh-air patio, pool, and game space.

Shopping 162

Shopping Dining Hotels 162

Lodging

MARCH 11, 2024

What is your take on diversity and inclusion in today’s hospitality industry? In the hospitality industry, we’re in the business of creating memorable experiences for our guests. We strive to exceed expectations, anticipate needs, and deliver a warm welcome that feels like coming home. While having a beautiful setting and flawless guestrooms is key, the heart of hospitality lies within your team and their ability to deliver friendly, thoughtful service.

Hospitality 290

Hospitality Services Business Hiring 290

Lodging

MARCH 11, 2024

What initially inspired you to get into the hospitality business? My inspiration stems from my family who always embody hospitality and friendliness towards others. Growing up, we often lived in tourist destinations due to my father’s career in civil engineering, and I cherished our vacations together as some of my happiest times. These experiences fueled my desire to bring that same feeling of joy to others.

Business 299

Business Hospitality 299

Lodging

MARCH 11, 2024

Choice Hotels International‘s exchange offer to acquire the issued and outstanding shares of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts expired. Wyndham issued a letter to shareholders asking for their support of Wyndham’s nominations for their Board of Directors and issued another statement following Choice’s expiration announcement. All of the news from this morning from both companies is below: NORTH BETHESDA, Maryland—Choice Hotels International, Inc. announced the expiration of the exch

Resorts 290

Resorts Hotels 290

Lodging

MARCH 8, 2024

LODGING Editor-in-Chief Dennis Nessler speaks with representatives from a diverse cross-section of the industry to discuss the current state of labor in the lodging industry. Participants discuss everything from the advantages of flexible pay and hours to technology advances, specifically the AI revolution, and how advances in those areas are impacting today’s workforce.

147

147