Trending Articles

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End of an era as Hilton Brisbane to close after nearly 40 years

Hotel Management

Hilton Brisbane, a landmark hotel in the citys CBD, is set to close its doors at the end of this month after almost 40 years of service. The Elizabeth Street hotel, which was designed by Austrian-born architect Harry Seidler, opened in 1987. Centrally located above Wintergarden on Queen Street Mall in Brisbane, the luxury hotel has served as a popular accommodation choice for visitors to the city throughout the decades.

Closing 257
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Aimbridge Expands Board of Managers Following Balance Sheet Restructure

Lodging

PLANO, TexasAimbridge Hospitality announced the appointment of an expanded Board of Managers that brings experience in hospitality and strengthens Aimbridges foundation. These Board appointments follow the completion of the companys previously announced balance sheet restructuring. The four new ManagersGlenn Alba, Rich Gomel, Carrie McIntyre, and Emanuel (Manny) Pearlmanjoin current Board members Steve Joyce and Craig S.

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Inside Boutique Group’s Cultural and Social Sustainability Commitments

Skift Blog

Skift Take: Modern sustainability in travel is no longer just about environmental initiatives. Hotel brands must also consider their impact on local communities and commitments to cultural heritage. With those pillars in mind, Boutique Group is paving the way for a new responsible luxury model in Saudi Arabia.

Branding 277
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Why Alternative Capital Is Key to Unlocking New Development

Lodging

Securing financing for hotel development continues to remain challenging. Traditional lenders continue to scale back, and those still active are offering significantly lower loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, making it difficult for developers to move projects forward. Higher interest rates further complicate the landscape, forcing developers to pursue creative capital solutions.

Scale 258
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5 Ways You Can Win Faster with Gen AI in Sales

Incorporating generative AI (gen AI) into your sales process can speed up your wins through improved efficiency, personalized customer interactions, and better informed decision- making. Gen AI is a game changer for busy salespeople and can reduce time-consuming tasks, such as customer research, note-taking, and writing emails, and provide insightful data analysis and recommendations.

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How to Leverage Micro-Influencers for Lead Generation

Social Hospitality

Brands are always looking for new ways to create leads and close sales. Among all of these, partnering with micro-influencers has been very effective. They can improve engagement and conversion levels by loyally using their followers. Let’s dive into why they’re so helpful, select the best for your brand, and build long-term partnerships that provide continuous results.

Branding 130
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The AI Revolution in Hospitality: Transforming the Hotel Industry through Innovation and Employee Empowerment

Are Morch

In an era of rapid technological advancement and evolving consumer expectations, the hotel industry stands at a crossroads. Long-standing challenges such as overworked staff, outdated systems, and resistance to change have left many establishments struggling to keep pace with the dynamic hospitality landscape. However, a paradigm shift is underway, driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and […] The post The AI Revolution in Hospitality: Transforming the Hotel Industry through Innovation an

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Taj-Parent Indian Hotels Company Enters Ras Al Khaimah With Branded Residences

Skift Blog

Skift Take: While IHCL is aiming to double its portfolio by 2030 and grow its international presence in markets that host Indian diaspora, Ras Al Khaimah's Al Marjan Island lifestyle destination is being developed as an emerging as a tourism center for the UAE. However, with big competitors like Movenpick and Hampton by Hilton resorts, IHCL has clearly tried to set itself apart by going the branded apartment route.

Branding 237
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Miniview: The SEED – taking us back to (beautiful) basics in Bali

Hotel Designs

Hotel Designs Miniview: The SEED taking us back to (beautiful) basics in Bali Miniview: The SEED taking us back to (beautiful) basics in Bali Away from the crowds in undiscovered East Bali, The SEED is a private oceanfront estate situated between the volcanic shores and dramatic mountain ranges of Candidasa, designed as a eco-conscious, personalised and playful luxury escape… The SEED estate spans 6,400 square metres of tropical coastline.

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The Future of Hospitality: How AI-Powered CRM is Revolutionizing the Hotel Industry

Are Morch

In today’s fast-paced digital world, the hospitality industry faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities. As customer expectations continue to evolve, hotels must adapt to stay competitive. One of the most promising solutions on the horizon is AI-powered Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. These advanced tools are transforming how hotels interact with guests, manage operations, and drive […] The post The Future of Hospitality: How AI-Powered CRM is Revolutionizing t

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Amora Hotels and Resorts acquires five-star Adelaide hotel

Hotel Management

Amora Hotels and Resorts has acquired Adelaides Hilton Hotel at 233 Victoria Square for an undisclosed sum. The 377-room luxury hotel, located in the heart of the citys entertainment, dining, shopping, and business precincts, features 20 conference and meeting rooms, two food and beverage venues, a business lounge, tennis court, gym and swimming pool.

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Don't Let AI Pass You By: The New Era of Personalized Sales Coaching & Development

Speaker: Brendan Sweeney, VP of Sales & Devyn Blume, Sr. Account Executive

Are you curious about how artificial intelligence is reshaping sales coaching, learning, and development? Join Brendan Sweeney and Devyn Blume of Allego for an engaging new webinar exploring AI's transformative role in sales coaching and performance improvement! Brendan and Devyn will share actionable insights and strategies for integrating AI into coaching and development - ensuring personalized, effective, and scalable training!

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Italy Clamps Down on Self-Check-ins and Key Boxes for Short-Term Rentals

Skift Blog

Skift Take: In Italy, key boxes used for self-check-in at short-term rentals symbolize overtourism to some locals. Some vigilantes have been sabotaging them. So officials are promising stronger enforcement of existing regulations to curb excesses.

Tourism 214
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AHLA Foundation Names Kevin Carey President and CEO

Lodging

WASHINGTONThe American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) announced the appointment of Kevin Carey to serve as the AHLA Foundations president and CEO, effective immediately. Carey, who will continue to serve as chief operating officer (COO) of AHLA, succeeds Anna Blue, who announced her departure in February. “Now more than ever, the Foundations programs and initiatives will play a vital role in advancing the hospitality industry and amplifying opportunities for its people.

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Leadership, Inclusion, and the Future of Hospitality

Lodging

What initially inspired you to get into the hospitality business? This is simply the best industry in the world. Where else can you start in an entry-level role and rise up to run a hotel, own a hotel, or become the CEO of a global company? My own story reflects that: having started in this industry running marketing and communications to eventually leading the AHLA Foundation and now helming AHLA.

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CoStar: U.S. Hotel Industry Reports Mixed Yearly Comparisons

Lodging

ARLINGTON, VirginiaThe U.S. hotel industry reported mixed year-over-year comparisons, according to CoStars latest data through Feb. 22, 2025. U.S. Hotel Performance February 16-22, 2025 Percentage change from comparable week in 2024 Occupancy: 60.3 percent (down 2.7 percent) ADR: $159.90 (up 2.5 percent) RevPAR: $96.49 (down 0.3 percent) Among the Top 25 Markets, Los Angeles saw the largest occupancy increase (up 10.4 percent to 74.8 percent) and RevPAR (up 16.7 percent to $147.34).

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Diving into Diversity: Decoding the Foundations of Inclusion in Hospitality Talent Acquisition

Speaker: Lauren Fernandez - CEO & Founder, Full Course

Companies all over the world, including Marriot International and Hilton Worldwide, are aware of the value of including DEI in their talent acquisition strategy. However, despite these initiatives, there is still plenty that the hospitality sector can do to promote DEI. When comparing the hospitality industries in India, Iraq, the UK, and the US, you will see that there is a consistent underrepresentation of persons from different ethnic, gender, and disability origins across all levels of the i

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Accor, Booking.com Report Finds Sustainable Traveler Motivations

Lodging

Accor, Booking.com, and the University of Surrey published a report based on research aimed at understanding and addressing traveler motivations when it comes to making more sustainable decisions during their stay. This initiative has been driven by an understanding that guests play a critical role in the efficacy and efficiency of sustainability initiatives.

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Making a Difference

Lodging

What initially inspired you to get into the hospitality industry? My journey into the hospitality industry began with a gentle nudge from a college friend who saw something in me that I hadnt yet recognized. Despite my lack of experience in lodging, she believed in my potential and encouraged me to apply for a sales position at a small hotel in Cleveland, Ohio.

Sales 228
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Hyatt Plans New Upper-Midscale Transient Brand: Hyatt Select

Lodging

CHICAGO, IllinoisHyatt Hotels Corporation announced plans for Hyatt Select, a new upper-midscale transient brand designed to meet the needs of modern travelers while delivering a cost-effective model for owners. The Hyatt Select brand will strengthen Hyatts upper-midscale presence by complementing Hyatt Studios, an extended-stay brand in the category, which marked the opening of its first property, Hyatt Studios Mobile/Tillmans Corner, on Feb. 18, 2025.

Branding 180
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New Loyalty Program Journey Targets Independent Boutique Hotels

Skift Blog

Skift Take: The new startup Journey faces significant challenges in building consumer adoption and achieving the necessary scale to compete with established loyalty programs. But its notable backers believe it's addressing critical pain points in today's loyalty system.

Scale 165
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A Buyer’s Guide to Future-Proofing Your Restaurant Tech Stack

The race to 100% digital is on. With the restaurant industry still in the early innings of its digital transformation, brands need an airtight strategy when it comes to building out their tech stack. Download the buyer’s guide to learn where to prioritize your efforts and get the most out of every investment.

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5 Best Practices for an Ideal Franchisor–Franchisee Relationship

Lodging

As the EVP of franchise operations for My Place Hotels, a leading hotel franchise company, Ive learned that the franchisorfranchisee relationship is key to long-term success. A strong partnership fosters trust, loyalty, and mutual growth, forming the foundation for sustained success. Based on my experience at My Place, here are five best practices to create enduring and mutually rewarding franchisorfranchisee relationships: Maintain clear and open communication: This is the cornerstone of any su

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Minor Hotels bolsters Oaks network with the addition of three Victorian properties

Hotel Management

Minor Hotels is expanding the Oaks Hotels, Resorts and Suites portfolio with the addition of three Victorian properties this month. Oaks Vue Suites Geelong and Oaks R Suites Geelong opened under the brand on March 3, with Oaks Melbourne Flemington Suites joining the hotel group earlier this month. Oaks Melbourne Flemington Suites As we continue to expand our footprint in Australasia, the portfolio additions of Oaks Vue Suites Geelong, Oaks R Suites Geelong and Oaks Melbourne Flemington Suites ma

Hotels 179
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AAA: Spring Break Travelers Are Planning Warm-Weather Trips in 2025

Lodging

WASHINGTON, D.C.Spring Break season spans several weeks, starting in March and ending mid-April. AAA booking data shows most travelers are looking for warm weather with the Sunshine State topping the list of U.S. destinations. Four Florida cities are on the top 10 domestic list: Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Tampa. For families who live in colder climates, Spring Break cant come soon enough, said Stacey Barber, vice president, AAA Travel.

Travel 180
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IHG Opens First Branded Net Zero Carbon Hotel

Lodging

WINDSOR, United KingdomIHG Hotels & Resorts opened voco Zeal Exeter Science Park, IHGs first branded net zero carbon hotel, in partnership with Zeal Hotels and Valor Hospitality. It has been designed to operate entirely on renewable and solar energy. As with all voco branded hotels, the 142-room voco Zeal Exeter Science Park has been designed with neutral tones and contemporary features throughout the guestrooms and public spaces.

Branding 147
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Beyond The Meeting Room: Luxury Magazine Resource

Escape into a world of luxury and dive into the future of tech, fun takes on the American pastime, and many inspirational individuals. With engaging reports on fashion, food, travel, finance, sports, and more, download now and enjoy the read!

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Marriott reports international travellers behind Melbourne room sell out on Grand Prix weekend

Hotel Management

Melbourne hotels are gearing up for a bumper weekend with Australias largest motorsport event, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, coming to town. Marriott International has reported high occupancy levels this week across its 10 Melbourne hotels, up 6% year on year. According to Marriott International, this Saturday March 15 is a city-wide sell-out, with the same expected for Friday night.

Travel 147
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‘Our journey has just begun’: Barry Sternlicht ushers in Starwood’s new era of global growth

Hotel Management

SH Hotels and Resorts, the parent company of 1 Hotels, Baccarat Hotels, and Treehouse Hotels, has officially rebranded to Starwood Hotels, marking a revival of the iconic global brand. Created by influential hospitality leader Barry Sternlicht nearly 30 years ago, the Starwood brand became the largest hotel company in the world measured by EBITDA under Sternlichts leadership as Chairman and CEO and established high-performing global brands.

Branding 147
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CBRE predicts 2025 will be a ‘pivotal year’ for growth and investment in Australia’s hotel sector

Hotel Management

Australias hotel sector is on track for a full recovery by the end of 2025, with all major cities recording occupancy growth, according to new CBRE data. Following a surge in international arrivals and steady domestic demand last year, CBREs latest Hotels Australia Overview and Outlook report shows that the pace of growth will continue at a moderate rate in 2025.

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DerbySoft Acquires Arise, an AI Automation Platform

Lodging

DALLAS, TexasDerbySoft announced its acquisition of artificial intelligence products from Arise, an AI automation platform for travel agenthotel communication and commission reconciliation. This transaction underscores DerbySofts commitment to enhancing aspects of the supplierdistributor relationship within business travel. Arise delivers AI-driven automation to tackle challenges in travel management, optimize TMC-hotel communication, automate booking reconciliation, and recover unpaid commissio

Travel 182
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10 Ways to Leverage Buyer Signals and Drive Revenue

In today’s ultra-competitive markets, it’s no longer enough to wait for buyers to show obvious signs of interest. Instead, sales teams must be proactive, identifying and acting on nuanced buyer behaviors — often before prospects are fully ready to make a purchase. In this eBook from ZoomInfo & Sell Better, learn 10 actionable ways to use these buyer signals to transform your sales strategy and close deals faster.

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Red Roof RIDE and SHE Ownership Programs Add 30 Representatives

Lodging

COLUMBUS, OhioRed Roof continued to promote franchise hotel ownership and opportunity for women and other underserved communities in hospitality. Since the 2023 introduction of RIDE with Red Roof and rebranding of SHE, inspired by Red Roof, the company has added more than 30 women and representatives of underserved markets to its ownership community.

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The Fullerton Hotel Sydney welcomes John O’Shea as General Manager

Hotel Management

Experienced Australian hotelier John OShea has taken up the General Manager position at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, joining the team in February 2025. OShea brings more than 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry, during which time he has managed significant hotel openings and renovations in Australia and across the Asia Pacific, including China, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and Fiji.

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The White Lotus Effect Could Be a Disaster for Thailand's Koh Samui - And Travel Media Is Making it Worse

Skift Blog

Skift Take: It is disheartening to see the same publications that have previously reported on the perils of overtourism now behaving like golden retrievers chasing a tennis ball, sprinting after the hype with little critical reflection.

Travel 336
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Exclusive: Qatar Airways to Launch AI Travel Agent

Skift Blog

Skift Take: Customers flying with Qatar Airways will soon be able to ask an AI-powered travel agent to book their flights.

Travel 336
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Beyond the Basics: How to Develop and Retain a Top-Performing Sales Team

Speaker: Brendan Sweeney, VP of Sales at Allego

Maximizing sales rep performance is no easy task. 📈 Traditional sales training methods focus heavily on the first few weeks in the sales role. Companies dedicate time, resources, and budget to onboarding new hires, only for them to forget what was learned in those first few weeks, lose motivation, and struggle to come to grips with their role.