Hotel News Now

Leverage 'emotional contagion' at your hotel

5/17/2013 9:06:00 AM

There’s an infection running rampant in your hotel, and, if cultivated wisely, can prove a significant boon to the guest experience.

5 things to know: 17 May 2013

5/17/2013 8:49:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Report: US deals on pace to hit $17b in 2013
• Hotel Stock Index shows slight April decline
• More thefts blamed on insecure door locks
• Engagement a key part of hotel marketing
• Extended-stay rate grows, RevPAR falls in Q1

Peer-to-peer booking sites no threat to demand

5/17/2013 8:23:00 AM

Platforms that allow travelers to book properties from private, residential property owners have yet to carve out a noticeable share of the demand pie, sources said.

Capitalize on a good story to attract guests

5/17/2013 8:21:00 AM

Guests will book a hotel that has a strong online presence and will return to the hotel if it tells a good story, panelists said during an HSMAI webinar.

A mission to help a country in need

5/17/2013 7:49:00 AM

GM Ronald Maidens at the Best Western Premier Petion-Ville works to make a difference in the lives of his employees and the citizens of Haiti.

STR: US results for week ending 11 May

5/17/2013 7:12:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 0.1% to 62.7%; ADR rose 3.7% to $109.93; and RevPAR increased 3.8% to $68.94.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index up 0.4% in April

5/17/2013 7:00:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index reported a 0.4% increase in April to 2,784. Year-to-date 2013, the Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index is up 13.7%.

5 things to know: 16 May 2013

5/16/2013 8:46:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: US weekly results mixed, Canada positive
• HIP shows 6-month growth rate of 4.3% in April
• Red Lion eyes eastward US expansion
• Judge: Sandy evacuees can remain in NYC hotels
• US initial unemployment claims rise by 32,000

Canada results for week ending 11 May

5/16/2013 8:33:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 0.3% to 64.3%; ADR was up 1.7% to CA$132.58; and RevPAR increased 2% to CA$85.23.

STR: Houston hotels lead weekly growth

5/16/2013 8:30:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 20.9% to 80.6%; its ADR jumped 56.5% to $150.59; and its RevPAR increased 89.2% to $121.33.

Brand leaders like Caribbean’s direction

5/16/2013 8:23:00 AM

Airlift remains a big challenge for the Caribbean region, but things remain positive for hotel companies looking to expand, executives said during the Caribbean Hotel & Resort Summit.

Resurgent Red Lion eyes Eastward expansion

5/16/2013 8:06:00 AM

Primarily a West Coast player, a newly revamped Red Lion looks to expand to airport and university locations throughout the contiguous U.S.

Choice looks to technology as differentiator

5/16/2013 7:59:00 AM

Choice’s technology team has identified three trends it hopes to capitalize on during the next few years: cloud-based technology, mobile and big data.

Navigating ADA guidelines

5/16/2013 7:21:00 AM

Hoteliers must navigate the Americans with Disabilities Act on at least two main fronts: employee relations and guest accommodations.

Lenders extend, pretend their way to success

5/16/2013 7:18:00 AM

Much maligned for kicking the can down the road, the extenders-and-pretenders are now primed to reap the rewards of their patience.

HIP: US hotel business activity up in April

5/15/2013 2:05:00 PM

Business activity in U.S. hotels increased in April, according to e-forecasting.com’s Hotel Industry Pulse index.

5 things to know: 15 May 2013

5/15/2013 8:42:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Choice earmarks $40m to refresh its biggest brands
• New US CMBS delinquencies at lowest level in 5 years
• April pipelines for Europe, Asia/Pac, MEA released
• Booming energy markets lift Houston demand
• REITs could increase hotel buying in Africa

Different data tracts tell different stories

5/15/2013 8:28:00 AM

Comp sets might be vital, but other levels of aggregation can also reveal interesting insights about broader market dynamics.

Energy, economy drive demand at Houston hotels

5/15/2013 8:14:00 AM

Houston’s expanding energy sector and booming job market is piquing hoteliers’ interests.

Magnuson to provide free PMS system

5/15/2013 8:07:00 AM

The company is giving away free PMS property management systems to hotels converting to Magnuson's franchise conversion brands.

Choice commits $40m to help Comfort compete

5/15/2013 7:59:00 AM

Choice joins other franchisors that are kicking in funds from their balance sheets to accelerate brand refreshes, executives said.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for April

5/15/2013 7:55:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 492 hotels totaling 120,345 rooms, according to the April 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe pipeline for April

5/15/2013 7:51:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 814 hotels totaling 134,912 rooms, according to the April 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for April

5/15/2013 7:48:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,804 hotels totaling 387,179 rooms, according to the April 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

How effective is your revenue meeting?

5/15/2013 7:41:00 AM

A viable weekly revenue meeting should involve four structured components, not last longer than an hour and include an ample dose of accountability.

Cautious Caribbean sees good hotel news

5/15/2013 7:08:00 AM

While the mood in the Caribbean hotel industry is optimistic, challenges remain for hoteliers in the region, according to pundits at last week’s Caribbean Hotel & Resort Investment Summit.

Hunter announces sale of Greenville hotel

5/14/2013 11:54:00 AM

Hunter Hotel Advisors announced the sale of the 120-room Hilton Garden Inn in Greenville, South Carolina, to Summit Hotel Group for $127,000 per key.

7 Days Group grows through management

5/14/2013 9:39:00 AM

The Chinese economy hotel chain opened 82 hotels in the first quarter, all but eight are managed properties.

5 things to know: 14 May 2013

5/14/2013 9:28:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR, STR Global release April global pipeline data
• 2012 tourism arrivals decline for Middle East
• China economy taking toll on Home Inns
• Choice opens 88 hotels in Q1
• Temple Hotels doubles portfolio in Q1

STR reports US hotel pipeline for April

5/14/2013 9:13:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,700 projects totaling 319,482 rooms, according to the April 2013 STR Pipeline Report.

STR Global: C./S. America pipeline for April

5/14/2013 9:09:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 242 hotels totaling 37,506 rooms, according to the April 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for April

5/14/2013 9:07:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 124 hotels totaling 20,676 rooms, according to the April 2013 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Economic woes take toll on Home Inns

5/14/2013 8:16:00 AM

China’s economic slowdown forced Home Inns & Hotel Management into a state of modest growth, executives said during the company’s first-quarter earnings call.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

5/14/2013 7:43:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: STR reports Q1 results; HVS examines 12 U.S. regions; Hoteliers gear up for a busy summer; and Hampton hits a milestone.

3 guidelines to finding the right manager

5/14/2013 7:23:00 AM

Finding a great manager requires good planning, an understanding of qualifications and identifying what individual will fit into company culture.

Hospitality as a nation builder

5/14/2013 7:19:00 AM

Hospitality development might be a key factor in Haiti’s struggle to emerge from its economic abyss.

Technology Showcase Submission Form

5/13/2013 2:20:00 PM

5 things to know: 13 May 2013

5/13/2013 10:12:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Early ETP adopters are happy with results
• Hawaii tops NYC, Miami for highest rates in Q1
• Occupancy flat, ADR up in Las Vegas
• GMs discuss focus on marketing, social media
• Langham plans IPO in Hong Kong

Early ETP adopters are happy with results

5/13/2013 9:11:00 AM

For property-level hoteliers, Expedia’s new program that allows guests to book on Expedia but pay at the hotel is leading to increased business and higher ADRs.

How long does a brand last?

5/13/2013 8:34:00 AM

The reality of the U.S. hotel industry is that most owners stay with the same affiliation, be it independent or otherwise.

France attractive market for hotel investment

5/13/2013 7:43:00 AM

While most of the country’s industries were hit severely by the crisis, France remains one of the most dynamic markets for hotel transactions and investments.

Nigeria piques global chains’ interest

5/13/2013 7:05:00 AM

Africa’s most populous country boasts an expanding economy, hot markets and several hotel-development suitors in the form of the global brands.

5 things to know: 10 May 2013

5/10/2013 9:27:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: Early April data shows strong RevPAR gains
• 1,500-room Gaylord back on track in Colorado
• Room Key survey offers insight into summer travel
• Hampton opens milestone 1,900th hotel
• Forbes reveals 5 busiest airports in US

Lenders get creative

5/10/2013 8:31:00 AM

Hotel lenders are finding imaginative ways to get deals done, panelists said during Meet the Money.

Dubai does not disappoint

5/10/2013 8:18:00 AM

If Dubai is on the cutting edge of the hotel industry, then the future looks exceedingly bright.

STR: US results for week ending 4 May

5/10/2013 8:10:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was down 0.6% to 62.7%; ADR rose 2.7% to $110.14; and RevPAR increased 2.1% to $69.07.

Ashford high on Key West, down on Washington

5/10/2013 7:53:00 AM

The REIT acquired the 142-room Pier House Resort and Caribbean Spa in Key West for $90 million. Meanwhile, dips in government and group demand affected the Washington, D.C., portfolio.

Meliá reports 5.4% RevPAR increase in Q1

5/10/2013 7:13:00 AM

To date in 2013, Meliá has added seven hotels with 1,776 rooms, and has an additional pipeline accounting for 45 hotels with 13,505 rooms.

Canada results for week ending 4 May

5/9/2013 9:51:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 0.9% to 64.5%; ADR was up 1.5% to CA$130.11; and RevPAR increased 2.4% to CA$83.92.

San Fran hotels top weekly ADR, RevPAR growth

5/9/2013 9:47:00 AM

The market’s ADR rose 12.3% to $179.71, its RevPAR increased 23.3% to $157.01 and its occupancy was up 9.8% to 87.4%.

5 things to know: 9 May 2013

5/9/2013 9:33:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hoteliers gear up for busy summer season
• TripAdvisor’s Q1 earnings show continued growth
• Domestic, global brands optimistic in China
• Trivago: London hotels boost rates for UEFA final
• Rautio appointed to Travel and Tourism Advisory Board

STR: Summer forecast shows performance boost

5/9/2013 9:22:00 AM

STR predicts occupancy for the summer months will rise 1% to 70%, ADR will increase 4.4% to $112.21 and RevPAR will grow 5.4% to $78.50.

Hoteliers gear up for busy summer

5/9/2013 9:19:00 AM

Several hoteliers report advanced bookings are up dramatically, backing up a new forecast by STR that predicts strong metrics for June, July and August.

Middle East attractive for mixed-use projects

5/9/2013 9:13:00 AM

Mixed-use development opportunities in the Middle East are transforming the evolving hotel landscape, experts said at AHIC.

China Lodging stresses ‘manachised’ growth

5/9/2013 9:10:00 AM

The five-brand company has 1,105 hotels in operation currently, of which 53% are franchised and managed.

Despite slowdown, IHG encouraged in China

5/9/2013 9:06:00 AM

A noisy quarter in China hasn’t deterred IHG from seeing tremendous prospects in the region, said CFO and Director Thomas D. Singer.

RLJ pro forma RevPAR up 10.6% in Q1

5/9/2013 8:11:00 AM

Pro forma RevPAR for the quarter increased 10.6% over 2012, driven by a pro forma ADR increase of 6.7% and a pro forma occupancy increase of 3.7%.

Liquidity reigns across the capital stack

5/9/2013 7:01:00 AM

The debt market has come a long way in just six months, financing experts said during Meet the Money.

Lender nixes HPT, NH deal

5/8/2013 9:47:00 AM

A lender’s objection to the debt refinancing related to the proposed $325-million investment in NH Hoteles by Hospitality Properties Trust has killed the deal for now.

5 things to know: 8 May 2013

5/8/2013 9:35:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• CEOs outline challenges during Meet the Money
• IHG reports 3.1% RevPAR increase in Q1 2013
• Chatham reports revenue gains, purchase plans
• Lane Hospitality will rebrand as Spire Hospitality
• New brand Paramount will team with Preferred

Travel bloggers a boon to hotel marketing

5/8/2013 9:29:00 AM

Several global hotel chains are partnering with travel bloggers who have emerged as an influential resource for consumers.

Sunstone prepares for the cycle

5/8/2013 9:00:00 AM

Sunstone Hotel Investors will selectively grow its portfolio while deleveraging its balance sheet, executives said during the company’s Q1 earnings call.

IHG reports 3.1% RevPAR growth in Q1

5/8/2013 8:52:00 AM

The shift in timing of Easter from April into March adversely impacted RevPAR in the first quarter.

AHIC: Investment outlook bright in 2013

5/8/2013 8:33:00 AM

Investment activity is a bright spot in 2013 with established markets bouncing back and emerging markets becoming more stabilized.

Hotel leaders reveal management strategies

5/7/2013 10:56:00 AM

Global hotel leaders revealed their basic management strategies, the crucial owner-operator relationship and how to get the right talent on board during AHIC.

Hotels help travelers adjust to foreign lands

5/7/2013 10:30:00 AM

Because of great efforts by brands, hotel managers and line-level employees, arriving at the front door of a global hotel has become a safe haven for travelers in unfamiliar regions.

5 things to know: 7 May 2013

5/7/2013 9:39:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• PKF: Guests not willing to spend once on property
• More defendants added to price-fixing allegation lawsuit
• Sunstone buys Boston Park Plaza for $250 million
• Summit buys $153-million portfolio from White Lodging
• Report: Geller earned $20.6 million in 2012

Is Pritzker poor pick for Commerce Department?

5/7/2013 9:24:00 AM

Nominee Penny Pritzker’s business ties could cast a poor light on the hotel industry.

Google+ advantageous to business owners

5/7/2013 8:49:00 AM

It’s time to start viewing Google+ as more of a search-engine optimization tool and less of a social media site.

HPT reports 7.2% RevPAR increase in Q1

5/7/2013 7:39:00 AM

The company reported a 2.1% increase in occupancy to 66.4%, ADR rose 3.8% to $103.06 and RevPAR was up 7.2% to $68.43.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

5/7/2013 7:13:00 AM

Featured in this month’s roundup of news from Europe: Hennequin is ousted at Accor; news funds percolating; and global chains continue to push aggressive expansion.

HVS US hotel market connections

5/6/2013 11:03:00 AM

This one-day nationwide simulcast conference explored hotel market intelligence on a national basis and in 12 U.S. regions.

5 things to know: 6 May 2013

5/6/2013 9:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HVS, STR highlight 12 markets during inaugural event
• Panelists talk tourism strategies during AHIC in Dubai
• Mobile bookings continue growth trajectory
• NYC real estate experts discuss market conditions
• Marriott reports 11.2% Q1 RevPAR increase in MEA

Hoteliers bullish on NYC despite new supply

5/6/2013 8:26:00 AM

Strong market fundamentals in New York City present hoteliers with opportunities to find success, according to panelists during last week's HOTELSnyc.

Government, group biz temper Host earnings

5/6/2013 8:22:00 AM

The REIT saw year-over-year RevPAR increases of 5.1%, but CEO Ed Walter said a drop in government travel and lingering unemployment issues slowed growth.

Government travel challenges DC hotels

5/6/2013 8:21:00 AM

Uncertainty in government travel casts doubts over the Washington, D.C. hotel market.

Groups, leisure boost San Francisco hotels

5/6/2013 8:19:00 AM

Future convention bookings and robust leisure demand are fueling strong hotel performance in San Francisco and the Silicon Valley/San Jose markets.

Strong economy helps Twin Cities’ hotels

5/6/2013 8:17:00 AM

A diverse economy, new office development and the promise of a new convention center are helping the Minneapolis/St. Paul hotel market grow.

Philadelphia occupancy at pre-recession levels

5/6/2013 8:15:00 AM

Increases in hotel demand are outpacing supply growth in the Philadelphia market.

Submarkets lead Los Angeles hotels

5/6/2013 8:14:00 AM

Strength in downtown and Santa Monica spark strong performance for the Los Angeles hotel market.

A good year for Colorado ski country

5/6/2013 8:10:00 AM

Both Denver and the Rocky Mountain resort areas are experiencing growth in occupancies and average rate.

Florida comes back from the recession

5/6/2013 8:07:00 AM

It might be time to buy and develop hotels in Florida due to low interest rates and availability of financing.

Dallas hotel demand spikes

5/6/2013 8:03:00 AM

Minimal new supply is helping the Dallas hotel market recover from the recession.

Deal activity abuzz in Chicago

5/6/2013 7:52:00 AM

REITs are leading hotel buying in Chicago, according to a presentation last week during one of HVS’s U.S. Hotel Market Connections 2013 events.

Atlanta hotels back to historic highs

5/6/2013 7:46:00 AM

With limited new supply expected in the next two years, average rates in Atlanta show growth at above the rate of inflation.

Travel on growth trajectory, despite obstacles

5/6/2013 7:40:00 AM

More consumers than ever before are expected to travel in the coming years, despite several hurdles that are limiting the industry’s true potential.

Ohio hotels bounce back

5/6/2013 7:17:00 AM

All three major markets in Ohio have reached levels of revenue per available room that exceed the previous peak year of 2007.

Manhattan hotels continue to soar

5/6/2013 7:14:00 AM

Despite high occupancies and rates, Manhattan hotel performance has room to grow, said local hoteliers.

Hotel values near previous peak

5/6/2013 7:11:00 AM

The HVS-STR Hotel Valuation Index forecasts continued value appreciation for U.S. hotels through 2016.

‘New rules’ influence hotel development

5/6/2013 7:06:00 AM

An emerging set of new rules is exerting subtle and significant shifts in the landscape of hotel development.

5 things to know: 3 May 2013

5/3/2013 9:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Report: New World to spin off Hong Kong hotels
• Shangri-La Asia makes headway in sustainability
• Travel leads the way in US exports
• Summer vacationers look for value over price
• Pillar Hotels & Resorts considers sliver investments

STR: US results for week ending 27 April

5/3/2013 9:11:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 0.4% to 65.2%; ADR rose 3.2% to $110.19; and RevPAR increased 3.6% to $71.84.

MGM’s first-quarter results signal ‘new era’

5/3/2013 8:29:00 AM

MGM Resorts International had its best first quarter since the downturn, executives said during the company’s Q1 earnings call.

Pillar looks to support ownership position

5/3/2013 7:53:00 AM

Hotel industry veteran Rick Frank is on board at Pillar Hotels and Resorts to look for opportunities to grow the company’s management portfolio and find ways for it to provide sliver equity in the acquisition of hotels.

Acting the part builds confidence

5/3/2013 7:27:00 AM

Appearances can be deceiving, but good leaders dress and act the part to project confidence and avoid being judged by their peers.

Hunter posts strong April closings

5/3/2013 7:13:00 AM

Hunter Hotel Advisors had its highest number of monthly closings since 2007 with April transactions totaling more than $80 million.

Government cuts weigh on Marriott’s Q1 results

5/2/2013 10:11:00 AM

The mandate for U.S. government travel cuts sliced into Marriott’s first quarter RevPAR, Arne Sorenson said during the company’s Q1 earnings call.

5 things to know: 2 May 2013

5/2/2013 10:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hyatt’s group business lags
• IHG adds to Army hotel portfolio
• Panelists: It’s a good time to develop hotels
• AH&LA applauds Pritzker cabinet nomination
• Hotel mortgage originations rise in first quarter

Airbnb could disrupt supply-demand equation

5/2/2013 9:43:00 AM

Venture capitalists see more substitution threats and opportunities coming, one of which is the $136-billion global vacation rental space.

STR: San Francisco hotels top weekly increases

5/2/2013 9:08:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 7.9% to 87.3%; its ADR rose 19.6% to $185; and its RevPAR increased 29% to $161.44.

Technology Pulse: A roundup of digital news

5/2/2013 9:07:00 AM

This month's roundup of news from the technology sector includes: five top travel moves in 2013; social media influences revenue management; and TripAdvisor rankings’ effect on roomnights.

Canada results for week ending 27 April

5/2/2013 8:57:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 0.3% to 65%; ADR was up 2.5% to CA$127.51; and RevPAR increased 2.8% to CA$82.93.

Despite group business woes, Hyatt optimistic

5/2/2013 8:42:00 AM

During the first quarter, Hyatt saw group demand decrease by 6% because of renovations in major markets, the Easter holiday and weakness in government bookings.

Lenders getting loose, eye adaptive reuse

5/2/2013 8:37:00 AM

Banks are back in the hotel lending business with a keen eye on adaptive reuse projects, said panelists at the Crittenden National Real Estate Conference.

Marriott reports 4.6% RevPAR increase in Q1

5/2/2013 7:33:00 AM

In North America, systemwide RevPAR increased 4.8% during Q1, including a 4.2% increase in ADR.

Despite fast track, San Francisco has issues

5/2/2013 7:25:00 AM

The City by the Bay is outperforming most other U.S. markets, but it does have challenges, according to panelists at the latest Tour de Data stop.

Hotel developer optimism outpaces financing

5/2/2013 7:17:00 AM

Construction costs are down and new supply is at a minimum. Financing for new construction, however, is slightly less favorable, said developers at BLIS.

Think outside the box with mobile strategy

5/1/2013 3:49:00 PM

Hoteliers understand the importance of a mobile presence, but they aren’t taking the time to think about the big picture and what pain points they can solve for their guests, sources said.

5 things to know: 1 May 2013

5/1/2013 8:49:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Optimism abounds in Greece despite slow start
• US summer travel season starting to sizzle
• Higher-rated business replacing government demand
• New luxury guest redefining high-end travel
• BofA finalizes $465m loan for Army Lodging program

Hyatt sees continued ADR improvement

5/1/2013 8:31:00 AM

First quarter 2013 reflected improvement in average daily rates with comparable owned and leased ADR increasing 4%.

All assets in play in Starwood’s disposition

5/1/2013 8:10:00 AM

Executives at Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide would sell their entire owned portfolio tomorrow if a willing buyer presented himself, executives said during a Q1 earnings call with analysts.

Ukraine struggles under excess supply

5/1/2013 7:20:00 AM

Ukraine’s hoteliers have struggled to score much demand since the UEFA 2012 football championship ended.

A new 5-year plan for Whitbread

5/1/2013 7:16:00 AM

Whitbread wants to increase the number of rooms of its Premier Inn brand by 45% to 75,000 rooms by 2018.

FelCor: Everything ‘back to normal’ in Boston

5/1/2013 7:08:00 AM

FelCor’s three Boston hotels are performing well partly because of a strategic revenue-management initiative: less low-rated government business and more higher-rated corporate business.

Whitbread revenues up 14.2% in Q1

4/30/2013 1:19:00 PM

The company's total RevPAR grew by 1.7% during the 2012-2013 fiscal year.

FelCor continues portfolio repositioning

4/30/2013 10:09:00 AM

Core RevPAR for the REIT increased 6.7% and core hotel EBITDA increased 13% in the first quarter of 2013.

CEO: Yucaipa deal critical to Morgans’ growth

4/30/2013 9:36:00 AM

Morgans Hotel Group would face a “challenging and uncertain future” if its deleveraging transaction with The Yucaipa Companies does not materialize, CEO Michael Gross said during Morgans’ Q1 earnings call.

5 things to know: 30 April 2013

4/30/2013 9:26:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hotel transaction volumes soar in Southeast Asia
• Abu Dhabi hotel revenues increase in Q1
• Hotel companies share secrets to stealing share
• Getting started in the hospitality industry
• Residential home prices rise 9.3%

Finding the perfect hotel CEO

4/30/2013 8:13:00 AM

It’s a lot harder today to climb the hotel company ladder into the CEO's office.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

4/30/2013 7:52:00 AM

Included in this roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: Dubai and Abu Dhabi hotels note strong Q1 performance; the Hospitality Property Fund strikes a $48-million deal; and March supply data.

Getting started in the hospitality industry

4/30/2013 7:35:00 AM

To pursue a long-term career in hospitality, determine what school to attend and on what segment of the industry to focus.

Starwood Hotels RevPAR up 5% in Q1

4/30/2013 7:18:00 AM

Worldwide system-wide RevPAR for Starwood Hotels increased 5% in constant dollars compared with the same period in 2012.

Execs discuss strategies for stealing share

4/30/2013 7:10:00 AM

Executives at some of the country’s largest hotel management companies highlighted the tactics they use to steal market share in an increasingly competitive operating environment.

5 things to know: 29 April 2013

4/29/2013 9:15:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• W brand plans global expansion
• Latin America outpaces Caribbean in growth
• Indian hoteliers protest air-conditioning tax
• Forbes Travel Guide expands to London
• Boutique operators eye US heartland

W put ‘lifestyle’ on map 15 years ago

4/29/2013 8:47:00 AM

When Starwood Hotels launched its W brand 15 years ago, little did hoteliers know what influence it would have on the rest of the industry.

W development spans the globe

4/29/2013 7:52:00 AM

As it celebrates its 15th anniversary, Starwood Hotels' W brand has big plans for growth outside of the United States.

Secondary markets see interest from boutiques

4/29/2013 7:38:00 AM

The next wave of boutique hotel development could be in the U.S. heartland, executives said during the Bisnow Lodging Investment Summit.

Green meetings go mainstream

4/29/2013 7:33:00 AM

More meeting planners are requesting green meetings with criteria they obtain elsewhere and are seeking the hotel’s compliance.

Does Hawaii need more hotel rooms?

4/29/2013 7:10:00 AM

The Hawaiian hotel industry is enjoying strong performance but has little hotel development in the works.

Davis gives Room Key update, hints at future

4/29/2013 7:04:00 AM

The “exit-traffic” strategy to capture demand from brand.com sites is driving results. Next, the company will address guest frequency programs and work through some mobile issues.

HIL: Summer hotel activity losing sizzle

4/26/2013 2:06:00 PM

The composite indicator, which gauges future monthly overall business conditions in the U.S. hotel industry, fell 0.1% in March to 112.8, following an increase of 0.3% in February.

Calling BS on Sonnenblick’s stance on ‘green’

4/26/2013 9:49:00 AM

Developer Bob Sonnenblick said the green movement would be an embarrassment to the hotel industry. But his antiquated stance neglects several key issues.

5 things to know: 26 April 2013

4/26/2013 9:41:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• US Senate approves end to FAA furloughs
• Accor’s new CEO reaffirms strategy
• Expedia: Q1 hotel bookings up 28%
• Facebook executive dismisses reports of ’fatigue’
• STR: Weekly numbers soften in US

Hoteliers tackle immigration, sequester in DC

4/26/2013 9:24:00 AM

Hoteliers lobbied in Washington this week against air traffic controller furloughs, which the U.S. Senate voted to end late Thursday night.

Investors seeking select-service hotels

4/26/2013 8:55:00 AM

Full-service assets might provide more opportunity to extract value, but select-service hotels are typically more profitable, investors said during BLIS.

STR: US results for week ending 20 April

4/26/2013 7:40:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was down 1.2% to 64.7%; ADR rose 2.6% to $109.62; and RevPAR increased 1.4% to $70.90.

Purdum's hotels mix hospitality, academics

4/26/2013 7:11:00 AM

Jim Purdum, GM of hospitality services at Pennsylvania State University, oversees two hotels while supporting the university’s academic mission.

‘42’ highlights progress made in hospitality

4/26/2013 7:00:00 AM

The movie, which recounts Jackie Robinson’s breaking of the color barrier in Major League Baseball, shows how much the hotel industry—and the world around it—has changed.

STR: US hotels report softer weekly results

4/25/2013 10:03:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was down 1.2% to 64.7%; ADR rose 2.6% to $109.62; and RevPAR increased 1.4% to $70.90.

5 things to know: 25 April 2013

4/25/2013 9:41:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelsNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• NH Hoteles calls off deal with Hospitality Properties Trust
• Air traffic controller furloughs could cost economy $9.3 billion
• Basics are key in finding money for hotel deals
• Study: Americans will sacrifice for hotel room discounts
• Midscale hotels in China show potential

Panelists ID successful deal characteristics

4/25/2013 9:27:00 AM

Capital abounds in the hotel market but only for those deals that meet a set list of requirements, said panelists during the BisNow Lodging Investment Summit.

Social media influences revenue management

4/25/2013 8:59:00 AM

Hotels that tie social media engagement to revenue management strategies will find ways to incorporate this intelligence into bottom-line growth.

Canada results for week ending 20 April

4/25/2013 7:56:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy fell 2% to 62.3%; ADR was up 1.5% to CA$128.06; and RevPAR decreased 0.6% to CA$79.75.

Keep it simple when marketing meetings

4/25/2013 7:25:00 AM

Hotel sales directors are offering clever, ready-made packages to capture group demand and make the booking process easier for meeting planners.

Woodbine’s Cihak likes full-service landscape

4/25/2013 7:16:00 AM

As Woodbine Development Corporation oversees several full-service hotel projects, executive Ian James Cihak believes there is a strong run ahead as the pipeline remains relatively light.

Success stories from midscale hotels in China

4/25/2013 7:09:00 AM

Executives from Accor, Hilton, Jinjiang, Home Inns and Wyndham said they will continue to push forward in the “lucrative” mid-tier segment in China.

5 things to know: 24 April 2013

4/24/2013 9:16:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Denis Hennequin out at Accor
• Global hotel performance stagnant in March
• Icahn to block sale of Atlantic City Trump Plaza
• ACTE signs code against human trafficking
• Survey: 95% of guests trust online reviews

STR Global: MEA results for March

4/24/2013 8:47:00 AM

The region reported a 3.8% increase in occupancy to 67.1%; a 5.4% increase in ADR to $179.57; and a 9.5% increase in RevPAR to $120.52.

STR Global: Europe results for March

4/24/2013 8:38:00 AM

The region reported a 1.2% increase in occupancy to 58.1%; its ADR fell 1.1% to €96.30; and its RevPAR rose 0.1% to €55.95.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for March

4/24/2013 8:31:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific region’s occupancy ended the month with a 1% decrease to 70%; its ADR dropped 0.8% to $129.44; and its RevPAR was down 1.9% to $90.60.

STR Global: Americas results for March

4/24/2013 8:26:00 AM

The Americas region reported a 0.2% increase in occupancy to 63.7%; a 3.9% rise in ADR to $113.62; and a 4.1% growth in RevPAR to $72.33.

Players discuss branding strategies in China

4/24/2013 7:56:00 AM

Rapid supply growth is leading to an influx of new brands either entering or launching in China, brand executives discussed during CHIC.

Hennequin ousted from Accor

4/24/2013 7:47:00 AM

Yann Caillère, previously president and COO, has been appointed Accor's transitional CEO.

Wyndham reports 4% Q1 RevPAR growth

4/24/2013 7:32:00 AM

The increase in system-wide RevPAR reflects the proportionally greater growth of lower RevPAR hotels in China.

Mantra making waves in the Pacific

4/24/2013 7:21:00 AM

Mantra Group recently opened its first hotel in Asia and the hotel and resort management group has no plans to slow down.

New generations of extended-stay brands

4/24/2013 6:49:00 AM

Executives from Residence Inn by Marriott and Value Place, which bookend the extended-stay segment, discuss the differences between their next-generation prototypes.

PKF: An analysis of hotel flow-through

4/24/2013 6:39:00 AM

PKF recently calculated a hotel flow multiple that measures how much change in revenue was retained as profits. Flow-multiples varied greatly between recessionary periods and times of prosperity.

How to handle guest complaints

4/23/2013 8:39:00 AM

Hoteliers can turn negative feedback into a positive by taking an empathetic approach.

5 things to know: 23 April 2013

4/23/2013 8:30:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• $10 billion in new hotels opened in 2012
• STR: US hotel RevPAR up 6.4% in Q1
• NYC commercial property volume falls sharply
• Travel searches double in Thailand
• Sequester sparks delays at major US airports

STR reports Q1 2013 results

4/23/2013 8:24:00 AM

The industry’s occupancy increased 1.8% to 57.7%; its ADR rose 4.5% to $108.31; and its RevPAR was up 6.4% to $62.47.

Many China hotels benefit from repositioning

4/23/2013 8:15:00 AM

As the Chinese markets evolve, many hoteliers face the need to reposition their hotels, often from the crowded luxury space into the mid-tier segment.

Lenders cautious as loan environment improves

4/23/2013 7:43:00 AM

Most proposed hotel financing deals have to be a perfect strike for the lender to be interested, according to UC Funding’s Dan Palmier.

$10b in new hotel projects opened in 2012

4/23/2013 7:27:00 AM

Approximately $10 billion in new hotels opened in the U.S. during 2012, according to the debut issue of the Hotel Development Almanac, a report from STR Analytics.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

4/23/2013 7:18:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Rates hold strong despite demand decreases; HVS highlights traveler data; and hoteliers discuss strategies during CHIC.

Hoteliers triumph during tragedy

4/23/2013 7:08:00 AM

The Boston hotel community acted with professionalism, care, compassion and an attitude of hospitality in the aftermath of last week’s bombing.

STR: US hotel performance for March

4/22/2013 9:32:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 0.4% to 63.7%; its ADR was up 4.2% to $110.57; and its RevPAR increased 4.6% to $70.39.

5 things to know: 22 April 2013

4/22/2013 9:28:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Practicing prevention helps thwart terrorism
• Real estate executives’ optimism rises
• STR: Strong US ADR drives 4.6% RevPAR gain in March
• Functional websites drive loyalty
• Mobile first, apps second

China hotel leaders discuss future strategies

4/22/2013 8:22:00 AM

Developers and managers must adapt their strategies in China to accommodate a new economy, new groups of travelers and a reduced workforce, executives said during CHIC.

Websites, apps dictate hotel health

4/22/2013 7:19:00 AM

San Diego conference focuses on the do’s and don’ts of getting online lookers to become online bookers.

Are guest complaints a good thing?

4/22/2013 7:09:00 AM

Feedback from guests is essential for hoteliers to gauge whether their offerings are right for their target audiences.

Sequestration impact picking up steam

4/22/2013 6:58:00 AM

The U.S. sequestration’s strain on hotel performance will intensify over time as the government works to cut $85 billion from the budget by 30 September.

5 things to know: 19 April 2013

4/19/2013 8:48:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hoteliers adapt to economic changes in China
• Jersey City hotels will host Super Bowl teams
• Rising fuel costs put pressure on Egyptian hoteliers
• Report: Asian customers demand more from travel agents
• New Orleans tops STR weekly performance numbers

STR: US results for week ending 13 April

4/19/2013 8:29:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 3.2% to 64.1%; ADR rose 7.2% to $110.88; and RevPAR increased 10.7% to $71.04.

Goldfarb revels in Fontainebleau’s luxury

4/19/2013 8:13:00 AM

As president and COO of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Phil Goldfarb is bringing the hotel back to its former glory by refocusing priorities on entertainment.

Hoteliers adapting to macro changes in China

4/19/2013 7:57:00 AM

Rising wages might be giving China’s domestic travelers more discretionary income, but they’re also giving hotel operators more headaches as they struggle to absorb increasing labor costs.

How to get 1 million Facebook ‘likes’

4/19/2013 7:24:00 AM

Hilton recently topped the 1-million mark in Facebook ‘likes,’ making it the first global chain to do so.

Accor struggles with European economy

4/19/2013 7:17:00 AM

Accor continues to move to an asset-light structure even as it struggles through a weak European economy.

ABVI adds four new-build properties in Q1

4/18/2013 11:00:00 AM

An ownership group based in Sugar Land, Texas, signed agreements to build three of the four extended stay ABVIs in Midland, Cotulla and Dilley, Texas totaling 106 rooms.

Update: Hotel Acquisition Funds List

4/18/2013 10:30:00 AM

Updated funds include: The UII Hotel Nr. 1 fund; Ethika's Diversified Opportunity Real Estate Fund; and a fund controlled by Elena Baturina. (Free registration/login required.)

5 things to know: 18 April 2013

4/18/2013 10:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Report: US property sales on the rise
• Accor, LaSalle report Q1 results
• Cornell study urges hoteliers to integrate technology
• Wego: Internet bookings on rise in Middle East
• Wine country proves profitable for hoteliers

New Orleans posts largest weekly RevPAR gain

4/18/2013 8:26:00 AM

The Big Easy bested its top 25 U.S.-market counterparts with double-digit growth in all three key performance metrics, according to STR data.

Canada results for week ending 13 April

4/18/2013 8:23:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 5.3% to 59.6%; ADR was up 3.8% to CA$126.88; and RevPAR increased 9.3% to CA$75.67.

Hoteliers bottle more business in wine country

4/18/2013 8:09:00 AM

Hoteliers in wine regions are partnering with local wineries to appeal to leisure and business travelers alike.

LaSalle reports 3% RevPAR increase in Q1

4/18/2013 7:40:00 AM

RevPAR for the quarter increased 3% to $132.89 as a result of a 3.9% increase in ADR to $186.11 and a 0.8% decrease in occupancy to 71.4%.

Panel debates power of hotel branding

4/18/2013 7:14:00 AM

Choosing a brand—or even whether to brand a hotel—depends on a hotel’s location, star rating, business mix and more, participants in a Michigan State panel said.

Hotel, live theater synergy spawns opportunity

4/18/2013 7:08:00 AM

An innovative collection of hotels around the world are integrating live theatre and arts productions into the guest experience.

5 things to know: 17 April 2013

4/17/2013 9:31:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HIP: US hotel activity remains flat
• Panelists discuss investment strategies
• Latin American hotel brands enter US
• Survey: 43.8% of Americans use tax refund on travel
• Computer glitch grounds American Airlines flights

Magnuson brands report 24.6% revenue increase

4/17/2013 8:41:00 AM

Magnuson Hotels reported a year-over-year reservation revenue increase of 24.6% for its three non-franchise hotel brands.

Austin goes after coveted convention market

4/17/2013 8:21:00 AM

With the development of two 1,000-plus-room convention hotels and a strong cultural center, Austin, Texas, is transforming into a competitive gateway city, sources report.

HIP: US hotel activity remains stagnant

4/17/2013 7:48:00 AM

Business activity in U.S. hotels was flat at a reading of 106.9 in March, according to the latest reading of e-forecasting.com’s Hotel Industry Pulse index.

Is it better to buy, sell or develop?

4/17/2013 7:27:00 AM

In a hotel environment filled with opportunity, investors must decide whether it’s best to buy, sell or build hotel assets.

Invesco to add last pieces to second fund

4/17/2013 7:18:00 AM

Invesco Real Estate will acquire three or four hotels to add to the properties already in its second hotel fund.

Latin American brands enter US markets

4/17/2013 7:01:00 AM

Despite a number of challenges for Latin American hotel brands, the benefits of their U.S. expansion are significant.

Boston bombings call for heightened security

4/16/2013 9:49:00 AM

A series of deadly blasts near the finish line of Monday’s Boston Marathon forced evacuations at several hotels nearby and heightened security measures at others.

5 things to know: 16 April 2013

4/16/2013 9:35:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Boston bombings force heightened hotel security
• China ushers world out of economic slowdown
• U.S. immigration bill outlines program for hotel workers
• Wellness programs assuage ‘Obamacare’ costs
• Delhi hotels asked to cut down water consumption

Hotelier’s eyewitness account of Boston blasts

4/16/2013 9:20:00 AM

Eric Strand, VP of operations for Drury Hotels, crossed the finish line of the Boston Marathon approximately 10 minutes before the first bomb exploded—a tragedy he says tested the human spirit.

Let’s fix up America’s front doors

4/16/2013 8:52:00 AM

Failure to upgrade America’s airports, roads and bridges could hamper inbound tourism.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

4/16/2013 7:26:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: STR, STR Global release March pipeline data; a U.S. hotel closure analysis; and the first U.S. chain hotel opens in Haiti in 15 years.

5 things to know: 15 April 2013

4/15/2013 9:25:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• JLL: Dubai real estate sector in full-fledged recovery
• China Lodging Group releases preliminary Q1 results
• Australia sees significant growth in tourism
• Hotel sector catches investors’ attention
• Survey: 35% of travelers likely to steal from hotels

Outside issues create labor situations

4/15/2013 8:58:00 AM

Union issues, market-specific dynamics and skill-set requirements present challenges for today’s hospitality employers.

Growth, opportunity in the Land Down Under

4/15/2013 7:26:00 AM

Australia will attract more than 5.8 million visitors during 2013 with inbound stream of demand projected to grow by 2.3% per annum for the next decade.

Investors warming to hotel sector

4/15/2013 7:06:00 AM

Fundraising is still a challenge, but private equity executives during the HELP confernece said recovery in the hotel sector is making their sales pitch easier.

Mixed-use projects expand to emerging markets

4/15/2013 6:58:00 AM

Developing markets around the world are getting into the mixed-use game with hotel-branded residential projects operated by hotel managers.

5 things to know: 12 April 2013

4/12/2013 10:08:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• More lenders report dispensing debt at HELP
• A look at the research behind guestroom design
• Study: Business travelers shift toward value
• Filming movies in hotels increases awareness
• New bill would include Hong Kong in visa waiver program

It’s true: More lenders are disbursing debt

4/12/2013 9:19:00 AM

More lenders are drinking from the hotel trough as fundamentals remain solid and the CMBS market continues to heat up, HELP conference speakers said.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for March

4/12/2013 9:03:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 118 hotels totaling 20,015 rooms, according to the March 2013 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

GM makes the impossible possible

4/12/2013 8:59:00 AM

No guest request is ever impossible. Some only take longer to fulfill than others, said Alejandro González Pozo, GM of the Hesperia Madrid.

STR Global: C./S. America pipeline for March

4/12/2013 8:10:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 235 hotels totaling 36,349 rooms, according to the March 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR reports Canada pipeline for March

4/12/2013 7:45:00 AM

Canada’s hotel development pipeline comprises 203 projects totaling 22,845 rooms, according to the March 2013 STR Pipeline Report.

STR: US results for week ending 6 April

4/12/2013 7:35:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 7.7% to 63.8%; ADR rose 3.2% to $108.12; and RevPAR increased 11.2% to $69.03.

Movies set in hotels create long-term benefits

4/12/2013 7:29:00 AM

Can having a portion of a popular or iconic film set in your hotel work to increase brand appeal in the long run?

Lines blurring between brands, affiliations

4/12/2013 7:16:00 AM

Global chains and hotel affiliation networks are looking more and more the same.

Lexington adds D Las Vegas Casino hotel

4/11/2013 1:59:00 PM

Lexington Legacy soft brand added the 638-room D Las Vegas Casino Hotel to its portfolio. It is the first casino and full-service hotel in Las Vegas for Lexington's parent company Vantage Hospitality Group.

5 things to know: 11 April 2013

4/11/2013 9:59:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases new US performance, pipeline data
• China’s hotel outlook burns bright
• Future for casino-hotels is bleak
• Booking.com reports boost in mobile bookings
• Survey: More hiring, higher wages in 2013

STR reports US pipeline for March

4/11/2013 9:29:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,717 projects totaling 320,750 rooms, according to the March 2013 STR Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe pipeline for March

4/11/2013 9:03:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 818 hotels totaling 135,115 rooms, according to the March 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for March

4/11/2013 9:01:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 483 hotels totaling 118,713 rooms, according to the March 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: Atlanta tops US weekly hotel performance

4/11/2013 8:45:00 AM

The market, which hosted the NCAA Men’s Final Four basketball games on 6 April, reported a 66% increase in RevPAR.

REIT leaders paint bright picture

4/11/2013 8:35:00 AM

Stronger capital markets have increased the attractiveness of hotel acquisitions as more bidders enter the market, hotel REIT executives said during the HELP conference.

Canada results for week ending 6 April

4/11/2013 7:57:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 9.8% to 55.2%; ADR was up 3.3% to CA$124; and RevPAR increased 13.4% to CA$68.39.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for March

4/11/2013 7:53:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,788 hotels totaling 385,043 rooms, according to the March 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Gaming changes soften casino-hotel values

4/11/2013 7:38:00 AM

The recent sale of the Trump Plaza Atlantic City casino hotel in New Jersey for the bargain price of $20 million underscores trends in casino-hotel valuation nationwide, sources said.

SEC ruling is a #disclosurefail

4/11/2013 7:31:00 AM

There’s only one way to describe the SEC’s ruling on allowing companies to disseminate material information via social media: #fail.

China's growth drives hoteliers' optimism

4/11/2013 7:15:00 AM

Hotel executives continue to be bullish on China, where the national economy is picking up steam after a sluggish end to 2012.

5 things to know: 10 April 2013

4/10/2013 9:40:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Examining the hotel owner-brand relationship
• Saudi hotel development on the rise
• TripAdvisor acquires members-only Jetsetter.com
• Trivago reports rate increases across Europe
• Hilton Hotels shares details on Facebook strategy

Walking the brand standards tightrope

4/10/2013 9:16:00 AM

Brands weigh the pros and cons of each potential changes in standards before implementation, brand executives said during the HELP conference.

Data transformation key for revenue managers

4/10/2013 8:53:00 AM

Revenue managers need to take a more targeted approach to discern what data provides the most valuable information.

Saudi hotel development on the rise

4/10/2013 8:20:00 AM

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a hotbed of domestic travel demand within all price points, and global brands are paying attention.

Oxford goes ‘where others fear to tread’

4/10/2013 7:06:00 AM

Chicago-based investment firm Oxford Capital has made a name for itself executing complicated deals with some distress.

5 things to know: 9 April 2013

4/9/2013 10:01:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hyatt’s Driskill buy signals new direction
• US hotel outlook strong despite some bumps
• GBTA upgrades 2013 forecast
• Report: Travel is more environmentally friendly
• 10 tips for writing a hotel business plan

Owners, managers support AmericInn’s strategy

4/9/2013 9:48:00 AM

AmericInn conference attendees said they are confident the brand team had done the necessary research and listened to franchisee feedback before initiating sweeping requirements.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

4/9/2013 8:45:00 AM

Several global hotel chains outline lofty growth targets in this month’s roundup of hotel news from the Europe region.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index up 5.9% in March

4/9/2013 8:31:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index reported a 5.9% increase in March to 2,773.

US hotel outlook strong despite some bumps

4/9/2013 7:45:00 AM

The U.S. hotel sector will power through short-term issues, panelists said during a general session of the Hotel Equities and Lender Perspectives conference.

Hyatt’s Driskill buy signals new direction

4/9/2013 7:21:00 AM

Hyatt has chosen not to rebrand the iconic Austin, Texas, hotel and will look for other opportunities to bring independent hotels into a quasi-brand family.

What will ‘Obamacare’ cost your business?

4/9/2013 7:09:00 AM

For the most part, the U.S. hotel industry has yet to come to grips with the hard and soft costs of the Affordable Care Act.

5 things to know: 8 April 2013

4/8/2013 9:36:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• European day-use bookings take off
• Identifying meth lab red flags
• AmericInn outlines near-term goals
• Airline a good gauge for direct-booking trend
• US Travel: Industry adds 7,000 new jobs in March

Morgans clears debt, will focus on management

4/8/2013 8:11:00 AM

With its largest shareholder gearing up for a proxy battle, Morgans Hotel Group Company inked a deal that will clear away $230 million of debt and sell its Delano South Beach property.

European day-use bookings take off

4/8/2013 8:09:00 AM

Once considered sleazy, renting hotel rooms during daylight hours is emerging as a more accepted—and profitable—endeavor for hoteliers.

AmericInn outlines near-term goals

4/8/2013 8:01:00 AM

At its 2013 brand conference, the AmericInn executive team outlined four key focus areas: growth, product quality, higher revenue and better operational tools.

Financial turmoil attracts travel in Cyprus

4/8/2013 7:51:00 AM

The debt-laden Mediterranean island is seeing a surge in travel demand from cost-conscious consumers.

Identifying meth lab red flags

4/8/2013 7:25:00 AM

Hoteliers should heed warning signs and implement security measures to prevent meth-lab production from occurring at their hotels, sources said.

Understanding required land-use entitlements

4/8/2013 7:06:00 AM

Land-use entitlements will minimize the surprises that occur during the pre-development phase of a project.

5 things to know: 5 April 2013

4/5/2013 9:23:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Starwood Hotels could sell up to $3b in assets
• TravelClick: Forward-looking occupancy, ADR show growth
• Owners pursue value as brands cut away old properties
• US hotel values reach highest point since June 2008
• Supertel’s portfolio evolution continues

Options abound for owners with old hotels

4/5/2013 9:12:00 AM

Sell, reflag or renovate? Owners have a number of ways to extract value from aging assets facing a loss of brand license.

STR: US results for week ending 30 March

4/5/2013 8:22:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was down 3.9% to 62%; ADR rose 3.2% to $109.63; and RevPAR decreased 0.8% to $67.93.

ME’s GM likes basics and intricacies of hotels

4/5/2013 7:42:00 AM

Fabio Gallo’s life-long love of hotels paid off when he became GM of the ME London—a new property that provides an intriguing look at the artistic side of London.

Back-of-house technology makes staff happier

4/5/2013 7:34:00 AM

Revel’s top-flight back of house provides a winning combination for recruiting employees and keeping guests happy.

Sale decisions tougher now for Supertel

4/5/2013 7:29:00 AM

After selling 42 non-core hotels over a three-and-a-half year period, it’s getting tougher for Supertel Hospitality to make decisions on which hotels should leave the portfolio, a company official said.

A drop in RevPAR? Blame the Easter Bunny

4/5/2013 7:12:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry reported a RevPAR decrease during Easter week, the first weekly RevPAR decline since January.

5 things to know: 4 April 2013

4/4/2013 9:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR reports US, Canada weekly performance
• Hoteliers balance ratings, reviews
• GBTA forecasts improved business travel for Europe
• Survey: Most New Zealanders have travel plans
• Initial US unemployment claims increase

Technology Pulse: A roundup of digital news

4/4/2013 8:56:00 AM

This month's roundup of news from the technology sector: Hyatt names global head of technology; Google benefits as Priceline outspends Expedia; and Choice will sell PMS, yielding software.

Canada results for week ending 30 March

4/4/2013 8:49:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy fell 9.7% to 54.9%; ADR was down 1.5% to CA$121.95; and RevPAR decreased 11% to CA$66.89.

Business intelligence begins with data

4/4/2013 8:48:00 AM

Data management and business intelligence exist in a symbiotic relationship, each strengthening the other in a continuous process of refinement.

STR: Easter timing affects weekly hotel demand

4/4/2013 8:42:00 AM

The Easter holiday's calendar shift caused a decrease in demand for hotel rooms in the U.S., according to data provided by STR.

How to recognize and avoid failed leadership

4/4/2013 8:29:00 AM

Successful organizations identify, nurture and groom individuals who exhibit the willingness to take action when leadership has failed.

Hoteliers balance formal ratings, user reviews

4/4/2013 8:07:00 AM

Which holds more sway? Formal ratings systems such as the Forbes Travel Guide or user-generated reviews from the likes of TripAdvisor? Hoteliers say both.

Domestic demand fuels Indonesia’s budget boom

4/4/2013 7:38:00 AM

A surge in demand for low-cost accommodation in Indonesia has kicked hotel development into overdrive.

Woolley’s Classic Suites plans expansion

4/4/2013 7:20:00 AM

With one hotel under construction, Woolley’s Classic Suites hopes to have between 10 and 15 open within the next five years.

What Arne Sorenson really said at Hunter

4/4/2013 7:12:00 AM

Sorenson’s keynote aptly navigated some of the key challenges facing our industry.

Social media’s complex web in Asia/Pacific

4/4/2013 7:04:00 AM

Hotel marketers in the Asia/Pacific must balance their presences on a web of local and global platforms.

5 things to know: 3 April 2013

4/3/2013 8:52:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hotel lenders show interest in Germany
• Trepp: US CMBS delinquencies edge higher in March
• Lawless: 2013 will be defining year for Jumeirah
• Singapore posts 2012 growth in tourism spend, visitors
• Pestana marks first entry into US market

Fund in hand, Kimpton looks to add hotels

4/3/2013 7:41:00 AM

Kimpton Hotels is looking to add between seven to 10 hotels with proceeds from its recently closed $203-million fund, CEO Mike Depatie said.

Guest experience goes local

4/3/2013 7:31:00 AM

Executives need feedback about every property to ensure the local experience delivers on customers’ expectations.

Results soar at hotels connected to airports

4/3/2013 7:19:00 AM

Hotels connected to airport terminals enjoy higher occupancies and rates than those located nearby.

Germany ‘real estate heaven’ means more loans

4/3/2013 7:05:00 AM

Germany's stable economy has lenders feeling more comfortable about providing loans to the country’s hotel sector, sources said.

Jumeirah a ‘group to be taken seriously’

4/3/2013 6:59:00 AM

Gerald Lawless, the group’s president and CEO, said 2013 is the year Jumeirah will stake its claim as a formidable player in the global luxury hotel market.

5 things to know: 2 April 2013

4/2/2013 8:26:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Morgans clears debt, will focus business on management
• India inbound tourist arrivals drop as safety concerns linger
• Invesco closes second European hotel acquisition fund
• Study: More travelers using frequent flyer miles for hotel stays
• Uganda to begin classifying hotels

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

4/2/2013 7:34:00 AM

Included in this roundup of news from the MEA region: Qatar is gearing up for the World Cup; Uganda announces plans to classify hotels; and development updates from across the region.

Millennials eye facilities management jobs

4/2/2013 7:23:00 AM

Millennials looking to enter the hotel industry should look to facilities management positions, which will offer them longevity in the business.

A possible cure to hotel labor shortages

4/2/2013 7:15:00 AM

A compromise between business and labor might open the doors for thousands of additional guest workers in the U.S.

CATHIC returns to Turkey

4/2/2013 7:01:00 AM

The conference is expected to attract more than 350 industry movers and shakers to discuss opportunities and challenges facing investors and operators in the region’s burgeoning tourism and hospitality sector.

5 things to know: 1 April 2013

4/1/2013 8:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Rising interest rates a risk to hotel values
• Morgans to reduce debt, preferred stock obligations by $230m
• Phuket hotels ordered to start reporting foreign guests
• Boutiques find footing in Middle East
• First US chain hotel opens in Haiti in 15 years

Property staff can encourage direct bookings

4/1/2013 8:39:00 AM

Much of the guest education process happens at the front desk, where line-level employees can convert third-party business to less costly supplier-direct business.

Boutique hotels find footing in Middle East

4/1/2013 8:26:00 AM

Boutique and lifestyle hotels in the Middle East provide an opportunity for travelers and investors seeking something new.

Liberty Group looks beyond distressed assets

4/1/2013 8:12:00 AM

Following several years of acquiring distressed hotel assets, Florida-based Liberty Group is pursuing new development, starting with an Aloft in downtown Tampa.

Seeking out high-quality service providers

4/1/2013 7:17:00 AM

Service providers should be selected based on the reputation and work quality of the specific professional who executes an assignment.

TrustYou launches reputation machine

4/1/2013 7:03:00 AM

TrustYou launched The Reputation Machine which is a holistic approach to increasing reviews, content distribution, strategic marketing and driving revenue.

5 things to know: 29 March 2013

3/29/2013 9:32:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Study: Sale prices for full-service hotels soar
• Higher occupancies forecast for Easter weekend
• Canadian hotels post weekly increases in performance
• Visitor spending in San Francisco rose in 2012
• Developer plans 1,500-room convention hotel in Seattle

Hotel deals for all types of investors

3/29/2013 8:11:00 AM

Four panelists at a Hunter Hotel Conference session represented separate styles of hotel investment.

Laying the groundwork for inbound demand

3/29/2013 7:44:00 AM

There is a clear correlation between the quality of infrastructure, the traveler’s experience and the potential economic impact to a region.

STR: US results for week ending 23 March

3/29/2013 7:35:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 4.4% to 66.4%; ADR rose 5.4% to $112.42; and RevPAR increased 10.1% to $74.61.

One GM’s journey from royals to renovations

3/29/2013 7:25:00 AM

Javier Friera Acebal got hooked on hospitality while waiting on England’s royal family during a tenure at London’s Grosvenor House hotel.

Marcus Hotels is poised for growth

3/29/2013 7:16:00 AM

New President Kirk Rose sees growth opportunities for Marcus Hotels & Resorts.

Executing successful hotel conversions

3/29/2013 7:06:00 AM

New build opportunities are scarce, and the cost-effective impact of a quality conversion is an appealing alternative for owners.

5 things to know: 28 March 2013

3/28/2013 9:46:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: US hotels post double-digit RevPAR increase
• Starwood Hotels plans renovation of 13 MEA hotels
• IHG sells London Park Lane for $457m
• Study: Exchange rates favor gateway hotels
• Apple REIT to be active in 2013 deals market

Canada results for week ending 23 March

3/28/2013 8:48:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 4.9% to 63.4%; ADR was up 1.8% to CA$126.31; and RevPAR increased 6.7% to CA$80.03.

Choice eyes expansion in Europe

3/28/2013 8:17:00 AM

After cleaning up its portfolio in Europe, Choice Hotels International expects to build on recent deals to enhance its presence throughout the continent.

STR: US hotels report double-digit RevPAR gain

3/28/2013 7:45:00 AM

Occupancy and ADR also increased during the week ending 23 March, according to STR data.

Dubai belies lagging hotel metrics in GCC

3/28/2013 7:35:00 AM

Hoteliers are reaping strong returns in Dubai, but elsewhere throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council hotel performance slowed considerably during 2012.

China: Huge opportunity, huge risk

3/28/2013 7:29:00 AM

Opportunities abound for hoteliers amid breakneck development, but so do challenges.

Van Paasschen pushing the pace at Starwood

3/28/2013 7:16:00 AM

Frits van Paasschen is accelerating Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide’s development and asset disposal program.

Sorenson’s short-sighted stance on health care

3/28/2013 7:07:00 AM

Pushing hoteliers to take better care of employees while at the same time denouncing the cost of providing them with health care doesn’t add up.

5 things to know: 27 March 2013

3/27/2013 9:58:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott loses appeal in Eden Roc case
• IHG’s free Internet move signals ‘sea change’
• Blackstone sells Miami Beach hotel
• Hilton’s EMEA pipeline grows to 15% of group’s total
• Extended-stay RevPAR tops 2007 in top markets

IHG’s free Internet signals ‘sea change’

3/27/2013 7:58:00 AM

IHG’s announcement is the next step toward Internet becoming another utility for which owners must bear the burden of cost.

Hilton speeds up EMEA development

3/27/2013 7:10:00 AM

In two years, Hilton Worldwide has seen the Europe, Middle/East and Africa region grow to 15% of the group’s total pipeline from less than 7%.

Creative solutions to design challenges

3/27/2013 7:04:00 AM

With the number of conversions and renovations increasing, there are new challenges arising to adapt designs to fit existing spaces.

6 takeways from the Hunter Hotel Conference

3/27/2013 7:01:00 AM

The Atlanta event creates a learning environment to reinforce several key points of discussion that are dominating the conversations in the U.S. hotel industry.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

3/27/2013 6:55:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: the region’s hotels experience mixed performance results and many global brands debut in new Asian regions.

5 things to know: 26 March 2013

3/26/2013 10:07:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IHG to offer free Internet to all loyalty club members
• Partnership buys 7-property Courtyard portfolio
• Brands target new luxury traveler
• Study: Choice, Marriott provide best mobile experiences
• Qatar to invest $20b in tourism infrastructure

Chhatwal charts Steigenberger’s expansion

3/26/2013 8:40:00 AM

Recently appointed CEO Puneet Chhatwal wants to export the German company’s brands and service excellence throughout Europe, the Middle East and China.

Extended-stay hotels draw demand, investment

3/26/2013 7:35:00 AM

Dealmakers spent more than $1 billion into the U.S. extended-stay segment during 2012, which continues to fuel gains in demand and ADR.

Brands target a new luxury traveler

3/26/2013 7:27:00 AM

Luxury today has less to do with formality and more to do with customized and personalized service, according to brand executives.

Designing for emotions

3/26/2013 7:16:00 AM

Travelers seek a product that constructively stimulates their interest through architecture, ambience and the range of products offered.

Trust the fundamentals

3/26/2013 7:11:00 AM

Data presentations during the Hunter Hotel Conference offer optimism for the future of the U.S. hotel industry.

5 things to know: 25 March 2013

3/25/2013 10:04:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR Global releases February performance numbers
• Investment interest in the hotel industry is returning
• Business travel in Canada is in full recovery mode
• All-suites pioneer Robert Woolley launches new chain
• Wyndham to open eight Ramada hotels in China

VIDEO: Hoteliers discuss financial landscape

3/25/2013 9:13:00 AM

Hoteliers during the Hunter Hotel Conference at the Marriott Marquis in Atlanta discuss the financial landscape regarding investment in hotel real estate.

IREFAC: Investors look to hotel sector

3/25/2013 9:09:00 AM

With few viable options, investors are looking to put their money to work in the hotel sector, IREFAC panelists said during the Hunter Hotel Conference.

Lending is plentiful for the right projects

3/25/2013 9:04:00 AM

A combination of liquidity in the marketplace, low interest rates and favorable supply and demand fundamentals make for a strong hotel lending marketplace, according to a panel of lenders at the Hunter Hotel Conference.

STR Global: MEA results for February

3/25/2013 8:58:00 AM

The region reported a 6.4% increase in occupancy to 66.4%; a 2.9% increase in ADR to $176.55; and a 9.5% increase in RevPAR to $117.24.

STR Global: Europe results for February

3/25/2013 8:51:00 AM

Three markets achieved RevPAR increases of more than 15 percent: Bratislava (+23.6%); Tallinn (+17.1%); and Istanbul (+15.4%).

STR Global: Americas results for February

3/25/2013 8:44:00 AM

The Americas region reported a 1.9% increase in occupancy to 58.8%; a 3.9% gain in ADR to $110.94; and a 5.8% jump in RevPAR to $65.28.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for February

3/25/2013 8:35:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific region’s occupancy ended the month with an 8.1% decrease to 62.5%; its ADR increased 3.5% to $135.50; and its RevPAR was down 4.8% to $84.76.

CapEx requirements pick up in 2013

3/25/2013 7:51:00 AM

With FF&E and OS&E costs back to 2007 levels, owners can benefit from price, design and durability.

Italy market open to investment opportunities

3/25/2013 7:07:00 AM

The country’s hotel market might be experiencing a performance slump, but interest from foreign capital has not waned.

5 things to know: 22 March 2013

3/22/2013 8:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott’s Sorenson tackles tough topics at Hunter
• JOLT Act re-introduced in Congress
• Study: Price No. 1 factor for Chinese travelers
• Middle East continues rebound after Arab Spring
• W Hotels accelerates development in Asia

Hotel CEOs see bright future ahead

3/22/2013 8:42:00 AM

A panel of hotel company CEOs at the Hunter Hotel Conference forecasted strong industry performance for 2013 and beyond.

STR: US hotel performance for February 2013

3/22/2013 8:10:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 2% to 58.5%; its ADR was up 4.4% to $107.72; and its RevPAR increased 6.4% to $63.04.

STR: US results for week ending 16 March

3/22/2013 8:06:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 1.4% to 66.6%; ADR rose 4.5% to $112.05; and RevPAR increased 5.9% to $74.66.

VIDEO: Challenges await in remainder of 2013

3/22/2013 7:56:00 AM

Hoteliers during Day Two of the Hunter Hotel Conference outlined the challenges and opportunities awaiting in the remainder of 2013.

GM redefines luxury in new normal

3/22/2013 7:39:00 AM

As GM of the Montage Beverly Hills, Hermann Elger blends old-world refinement with casual elegance to satisfy the changing tastes of guests.

Stock Index growth shows industry’s resilience

3/22/2013 7:32:00 AM

The R.W. Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index is up 6.7% year to date despite wheelbarrows full of political uncertainty.

Perception plagues regional outlooks

3/22/2013 7:11:00 AM

Hoteliers’ outlooks on opposite sides of the pond could not be more different.

5 things to know: 21 March 2013

3/21/2013 9:40:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Optimism abounds at Hunter Conference
• Cumbersome US visa entry deterring travel
• Spanish hoteliers pessimistic about spring
• STR: Dallas tops US weekly increases
• Value Place rolls out new standards

Canada results for week ending 16 March

3/21/2013 9:32:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 1.6% to 60.7%; ADR was up 1.7% to CA$124.46; and RevPAR increased 3.3% to CA$75.51.

Spanish hoteliers predict gloomy spring season

3/21/2013 9:26:00 AM

Pessimism has gripped Spain, where hoteliers predict a slump during the key Easter week holiday, according to the Confederation of Spanish Hotels and Tourist Accommodations.

Sequestration takes center stage in Atlanta

3/21/2013 8:36:00 AM

Panelists at the 25th annual Hunter Hotel Conference said the hotel industry will face issues as a result of the U.S. sequestration.

Hoteliers march on despite macro troubles

3/21/2013 8:31:00 AM

There’s no shortage of black swans circling the hotel sector, but performance has risen above the economic maelstrom thus far, speakers said during the Hunter Hotel Conference.

VIDEO: Record attendance on Day One of Hunter

3/21/2013 7:54:00 AM

While most of the optimism from ALIS remains, sequestration and the lack of group business growth are clear concerns, hoteliers said during the opening day of the Hunter Hotel Conference.

Dallas tops weekly occupancy, RevPAR increases

3/21/2013 7:46:00 AM

Hotels in the market posted double-digit gains in both metrics, including a 25.4% increase in RevPAR, according to STR data.

2013 Hunter Conference

3/21/2013 6:14:00 AM

Nearly 1,000 owners, operators, brokers and lenders gathered at the Marriott Marquis in Atlanta to network and discuss the current hotel investment climate.

Hotel Industry Terms to Know

3/20/2013 10:31:00 AM

This list of terms is meant to be an ongoing resource within the ever-changing hotel industry

5 things to know: 20 March 2013

3/20/2013 9:20:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• PKF-HR forecasts profit gains for 2013
• MMGY: Travel sentiment surpassed pre-recession peak
• Hotel closure analysis reveals interesting insights
• Developers target shopping-center demand
• Samsung to pre-install TripAdvisor on Galaxy S 4

Casting a wide net for sales talent

3/20/2013 9:16:00 AM

Hotel companies employ a variety of strategies to attract the best and brightest into sales careers.

Connected shopping malls provide steady demand

3/20/2013 8:18:00 AM

Anchoring a hotel to a shopping center allows operators to target a wide audience of consumers and typically leads to boosted performance for both the retail outlet and the hotel.

US hotel closure analysis

3/20/2013 7:47:00 AM

An analysis of more than 7,900 closed properties reveals interesting trends regarding age, chain scale, brand affiliation and more.

Seeking out the right talent takes ingenuity

3/20/2013 7:10:00 AM

With 775,000 rooms in the global hotel pipeline, the looming requirements for staffing are enormous. If the industry wants to sustain itself, we have to modify the way we think about talent.

Taming the Wild West of mobile optimization

3/19/2013 9:53:00 AM

The fast-moving mobile world can feel like the Wild West, but that doesn’t mean revenue managers should be wild or careless in executing their own strategies within the space.

5 things to know: 19 March 2013

3/19/2013 9:48:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• KSL buys 27-hotel Malmaison portfolio
• Expedia: US spring break demand heats up
• Study: Corporations increase per-diem allowance
• Wyndham growing by ‘quantum leaps’
• Google analysis reveals travel search trends

KSL Capital buys Malmaison and Hotel Du Vin

3/19/2013 9:05:00 AM

KSL is planning a significant brand investment and hotel expansion program in the UK, as well as international markets, the company said.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

3/19/2013 8:59:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: STR and STR Global release America’s supply pipelines; Haiti is still challenging for developers; and NH Hoteles catches lifelines HPT deal.

Anxious to hear from Main Street

3/19/2013 8:20:00 AM

The real stories in the hotel industry come from the street-corner owners and operators more than from the big brands and companies.

Wyndham kicks through door to global expansion

3/19/2013 8:15:00 AM

One-off deals will always be Wyndham Hotel Group’s bread and butter, said CEO Eric Danziger. But the group is better served entering new global markets with significant portfolio deals.

Country Inn owners react to new prototype

3/19/2013 8:06:00 AM

Cautious owners and GMs hope Country Inns & Suites’ new design prototype will drive profitability and bring awareness to the upper-midscale brand.

New CEO steadying ship at NH Hotels

3/18/2013 9:56:00 AM

New CEO Federico Gonzalez Tejera took quick action to stem the bleeding at NH Hoteles. Now he’s seeking to redefine the 4-star chain through an ambitious review of the 400-property portfolio.

Starwood Hotels eyes addition of luxury brand

3/18/2013 9:50:00 AM

Expecting to generate significant cash over the next three years, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide is evaluating opportunities to grow its family of brands by way of acquisition.

5 things to know: 18 March 2013

3/18/2013 9:24:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Country Inns aims for Gen Y with new look
• New CEO rights the ship at NH Hoteles
• Report: Marriott to cut ‘hundreds’ of IT jobs
• Whole Foods mulls entrance into hotel space
• Starwood Hotels eyes new luxury brand

Country Inns targets Gen Y with prototype

3/18/2013 8:51:00 AM

In an effort to attract business travelers and a younger demographic, executives at Country Inns & Suites are introducing a modern room prototype and logo.

Infrastructure in place, Hard Rock eyes growth

3/18/2013 8:42:00 AM

After spending the first two years of his tenure focused primarily on the hotel brand’s internal structure, Michael Shindler is turning his attention outward with the aim of five deals per year.

Delivering top-notch customer experiences

3/18/2013 8:34:00 AM

A hotel is only as good as the people who work there. Encouraging team members to concentrate on customer service will make a guest’s stay memorable.

5 things to know: 15 March 2013

3/15/2013 9:07:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Revel changes leadership before expected bankruptcy
• Little-noticed US health-care fee could cost employers
• Emergency housing programs turn to hotels for help
• Accor developing 3 Myanmar hotels
• US initial jobless claims decline by 10,000

Hotels become temporary housing for homeless

3/15/2013 8:48:00 AM

With a growing number of displaced and homeless people, emergency shelter programs are seeking out hotels as temporary housing solutions.

Top hotel execs share No. 1 priorities

3/15/2013 7:22:00 AM

There’s a big difference between addressing what’s urgent and what’s important. The best hotel leaders can tell the difference.

Social searching to impact booking

3/15/2013 7:17:00 AM

User reviews, friends’ insights and social media are beginning to play an increasingly important role in the online search—and booking—process.

UK hotel budget sector strengthens share

3/15/2013 7:07:00 AM

Having increased its share of the branded market from 3% in 2000 to 18% in 2010, the U.K.’s budget sector is showing no signs of slowing down—much to the detriment of the region's overall performance.

5 things to know: 14 March 2013

3/14/2013 9:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Report: Switzerland No. 1 in travel industry competitiveness
• Study examines European holiday travel trends
• Vienna expands luxury footprint
• Hoteliers searching for answers to ‘Obamacare’
• New Orleans sees best tourism numbers in 10 years

Canada results for week ending 9 March

3/14/2013 9:19:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 0.8% to 60.1%; ADR was up 1.9% to CA$135.85; and RevPAR increased 2.7% to CA$81.65.

Obamacare driving tough choices for hoteliers

3/14/2013 8:52:00 AM

As the deadline for implementation approaches, some hoteliers are still searching for answers on what they’re required to do.

5 key macroeconomic messages for hoteliers

3/14/2013 8:45:00 AM

The global economy is a scary place, but hoteliers need not fear shocks—provided they heed these messages from the Royal Bank of Scotland’s David Fenton.

STR: US results for week ending 9 March

3/14/2013 7:37:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 1.2% to 62.7%; ADR rose 4.6% to $109.55; and RevPAR increased 5.8% to $68.69.

Luxury segment heads up Vienna’s hotel boom

3/14/2013 7:23:00 AM

After years of inactivity, Vienna’s sparse global branded 5-star hotel presence will intensify throughout 2013 and early 2014.

Mobile-friendly marketing attracts consumers

3/14/2013 7:11:00 AM

Tech-savvy hoteliers should be on the lookout for established tactics such as specific targeting, triggered emails and quality content.

Are verified reviews the future? I say ‘no’

3/14/2013 7:06:00 AM

Hoteliers should spend less time squawking about fake reviews and more time embracing the best marketing tool available—word of mouth.

5 things to know: 13 March 2013

3/13/2013 10:05:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Business travelers bullish in 2013
• TripAdvisor reaches 100 million reviews
• STR, STR Global release February pipeline data
• GBTA: Brazil on strong growth path for 2013
• PhoCusWright: European consumer travel trends

IHG development motors along in Europe

3/13/2013 9:03:00 AM

InterContinental Hotels Group opened 39 hotels during 2012 and signed an additional 48, said Robert Shepherd, chief development officer.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for February

3/13/2013 7:52:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 491 hotels totaling 120,524 rooms, according to the February 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe pipeline for February

3/13/2013 7:46:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 850 hotels totaling 140,459 rooms, according to the February 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for February

3/13/2013 7:43:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,780 hotels totaling 380,902 rooms, according to the February 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Clear travel trends emerge amid uncertainty

3/13/2013 7:29:00 AM

PhoCusWright’s Carroll Rheem discussed key European consumer travel trends ranging from spend to booking behaviors to shifts in social media.

The coming bubble could be ugly

3/13/2013 7:18:00 AM

Positive economic predictions abound, but there’s nothing positive about the bubble hovering overhead.

Investors tip-toe into Europe’s top markets

3/13/2013 7:07:00 AM

After a lengthy hiatus and despite ongoing volatility, hotel investors of all shapes and sizes have begun crawling back into Europe’s gateway markets.

HIP: US hotel activity stagnant

3/13/2013 7:01:00 AM

The Hotel Industry Pulse index was flat during February, which suggests a stagnation in growth for the U.S. hotel industry.

5 things to know: 12 March 2013

3/12/2013 9:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• CCRA: Spring global bookings grow by 21.2%
• Sequestration halts government travel
• US, Europe make headway with distressed loans
• Starwood Hotels strengthens position in MEA region
• New World Development Company planning IPO

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

3/12/2013 9:14:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of news from Europe: Marriott, Yoo launch new brands; NH Hoteles catches lifelines; and plentiful portfolio trades recall frothy 2007.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for February

3/12/2013 9:05:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,728 projects totaling 320,397 rooms, according to the February 2013 STR Pipeline Report.

STR Global: C/S America pipeline for February

3/12/2013 8:58:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 236 hotels totaling 36,548 rooms, according to the February 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for February

3/12/2013 8:53:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 124 hotels totaling 20,444 rooms, according to the February 2013 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Sequestration cuts could deal blow to hotels

3/12/2013 8:26:00 AM

The U.S. sequestration is cutting into hotels’ government-related business, one of the most lucrative business segments for the industry, sources report.

Home Inns opens 366 hotels in 2012

3/12/2013 7:51:00 AM

The company's integration of Motel 168 remains on track and further improvements in RevPAR are expected in 2013.

Hotel Stock Index up 0.5% in February

3/12/2013 7:36:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index reported a 0.5% increase in February to 2,619. The index ended 2012 at 2,448.

Home Inns notes market softening in China

3/12/2013 7:26:00 AM

ADR ramp up is occurring more slowly in “low tier” Chinese cities, executives said during the company’s fourth-quarter earnings call.

Detroit back in business

3/12/2013 7:19:00 AM

Hoteliers point to a growing number of demand drivers leading to a healthy pipeline of renovations and new development.

Hotels buck the Walmart effect

3/12/2013 7:09:00 AM

The 2% hike in payroll taxes isn’t affecting the hotel industry as much as it is the retail business. The key is consumer confidence.

Panelists talk rising RevPAR, hot markets

3/11/2013 9:38:00 AM

STR Global’s Elizabeth Randall Winkle led a panel of developers and brokers in a 40-minute performance overview that spanned the globe.

5 things to know: 11 March 2013

3/11/2013 9:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: February preliminary numbers strong
• Hotels.com Hotel Price Index up 3% in 2012
• Report: Top travel trends for the next decade
• Hawaii tourism surge strains existing hotel supply
• Haiti ripe for hotel development

Hotel owners tackle 2013 issues

3/11/2013 8:52:00 AM

HotelNewsNow.com caught up with a diverse group of six hotel owners who discussed how they overcome some of the most pressing challenges in the hotel industry.

Haiti presents challenges to hotel developers

3/11/2013 8:11:00 AM

Hotel development is a slow process in Haiti, but experts believe the country has potential for further tourism and hotel development.

4 tips for managing a social media crisis

3/11/2013 7:16:00 AM

Having a prepared plan for managing a social media crisis can make all the difference, sources said.

Today’s GMs wear many hats

3/11/2013 7:00:00 AM

For hotel GMs to be successful in today’s world, they need to focus on relationship building and open communication.

STR: US results for week ending 2 March

3/8/2013 9:54:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 2% to 61%; ADR rose 4.3% to $107.18; and RevPAR increased 6.3% to $65.39.

5 things to know: 8 March 2013

3/8/2013 9:50:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Forward-looking data shows strong ADR increases
• US travel sentiment back to pre-recession levels
• Travel industry growth outpacing economic growth
• Green Street points to positive property value trend
• US unemployment at lowest level since 2008

Suburban brands targeting urban locations

3/8/2013 9:25:00 AM

Traditional suburban brands are now eyeing locations such as Chicago and Manhattan to increase exposure to developers and consumers.

Canada results for week ending 2 March

3/8/2013 8:36:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 3.1% to 59.2%; ADR was up 1.5% to CA$128.06; and RevPAR increased 4.7% to CA$75.85.

The most innovative developer you don’t know

3/8/2013 7:52:00 AM

Getting a hotel off the ground is difficult enough. But what about developing an entire city?

IHIF, ITB Berlin news roundup

3/8/2013 7:47:00 AM

Hotel companies announced a bevy of deals and developments during the International Hotel Investment Forum and ITB Berlin.

Face-to-face selling will never be obsolete

3/8/2013 7:08:00 AM

Business interactions via technology will never replace the value or ROI of being face to face with customers and prospects.

Flexibility, dialogue key to GM’s success

3/8/2013 7:03:00 AM

As GM of the Hyatt Regency Mexico City, Kurt Straub believes being a GM provides opportunities to grow personally while providing guests with the experiences they expect.

Technology Pulse: A roundup of digital news

3/7/2013 12:25:00 PM

This month's roundup of news from the technology sector: Mobile drives ancillary sales; brands use search to drive traffic direct; and public OTAs report full-year 2012 earnings, among other news.

Multichannel marketing strategies prove best

3/7/2013 12:22:00 PM

Travel marketing and advertising experts say companies such as Apple, Amazon, Facebook, Microsoft and Google are providing new ways for consumers to engage with hotel brands, products and services.

Search to social: The evolution of bookings

3/7/2013 12:15:00 PM

As Facebook moves further down the demand funnel from awareness to conversion, it's moving further into the arena of revenue management and away from marketing.

Hoteliers strive to move ahead of mobile curve

3/7/2013 10:31:00 AM

Hotel technology experts discuss ways the industry can move beyond connectivity and begin using the mobile revolution to create business partnerships and monetize the guest.

5 things to know: 7 March 2013

3/7/2013 9:43:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Cost more important than speed to today’s developers
• China Lodging outlines plans to double portfolio size
• Accor’s focus lies with luxury and upscale segments
• Dublin hotels a hotspot for St. Patrick’s weekend
• The sequester could hinder travel

Hotel spas shift focus in new normal

3/7/2013 8:46:00 AM

In a post-recessionary climate, hoteliers are focusing on the more palatable notions of health and wellness when it comes to their spa offerings.

STR Global: Ireland on the upswing

3/7/2013 8:15:00 AM

Ireland reported RevPAR increases of 11.8% to €60.30 ($78.45) for the 12-months to January 2013 period compared with the same timeframe prior year, according to STR Global.

No slowing down China Lodging’s economy brands

3/7/2013 7:50:00 AM

The Shanghai-based company plans to more than double its portfolio to 2,500 hotels by 2021.

China Lodging opens 342 hotels in 2012

3/7/2013 7:38:00 AM

For the full year 2012, the occupancy rate for all China Lodging hotels was 94%, two percentage points higher than 2011.

New hotel CEOs share visions, hot seat

3/7/2013 7:29:00 AM

A trio of recently appointed hotel CEOs shared strategies for their respective companies during a general session at IHIF.

Segmentation helps identify unique customers

3/7/2013 7:15:00 AM

If hoteliers want to sell more of their products or services, they need to explore different ways to segment customers in the industry.

Developers wary of rising construction costs

3/7/2013 7:04:00 AM

Construction costs are rising as hotel developers prepare for a building boom expected to hit its peak in 2015.

IHIF 2013

3/6/2013 11:04:00 AM

Hotel owners, operators and investors gathered at the International Hotel Investment Forum in Berlin to talk deals and discuss the latest trends impacting the global hotel industry.

5 things to know: 6 March 2013

3/6/2013 10:04:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Swell of portfolio sales reflects 2007 landscape
• Survey: US hoteliers most optimistic about profitability
• US states consider hotel renovation incentives
• Winter storm impacting air travel
• Dow Jones has record close Tuesday

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

3/6/2013 9:48:00 AM

In this roundup of news from Middle East/Africa: The world’s tallest hotel opens in Dubai; MEA hotels notch positive performance results in January; and deals and development news from around the region.

HTNG quietly solving industry’s problems

3/6/2013 9:05:00 AM

The association facilitates workgroups of voluntary hoteliers and suppliers who donate their time to tackle technology challenges. Their work largely goes unnoticed, but without it the industry could suffer dire consequences.

US states consider hotel renovation incentives

3/6/2013 7:25:00 AM

Several state legislatures are providing economic incentives to hotel owners who need assistance when renovating their properties.

Travel key to economic recovery, CEOs say

3/6/2013 7:19:00 AM

Leaders of developed nations are beginning to understand the role of travel and tourism in economic recovery, but they still have a long way to go, leading hotel CEOs said.

Plentiful portfolio deals recall frothy 2007

3/6/2013 7:10:00 AM

A number of hotel portfolios were dealt during the past two weeks, and hotel investors and operators say more are on the way.

Marriott dives into economy segment with Moxy

3/5/2013 9:49:00 AM

The new 3-star brand will be developed by Inter Hospitality, a subsidiary of Inter Ikea, which also owns the Ikea brand.

5 things to know: 5 March 2013

3/5/2013 9:44:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott, IKEA parent team to launch Moxy Hotels
• UK leads Europe in hotel transaction volume
• Carlson, Panorama Group sign JV for Indonesia development
• Starwood Hotels plans to boost Europe portfolio by 30%
• Hilton, Starwood, Marriott raise reward redemption levels

Tour de Data analyzes San Francisco hotels

3/5/2013 8:39:00 AM

Tour de Data, hosted by STR Analytics and the STR family of companies, is making its next stop in San Francisco to take an in-depth look at the city’s hotel market and profitability.

Panelists take global hotel brands to task

3/5/2013 7:42:00 AM

Panelists debated the value of hotel brands during an opening session at the International Hotel Investment Forum.

San Diego rises as a diverse market

3/5/2013 7:31:00 AM

The San Diego hotel market has many demand drivers, and in recent years the city has become a go-to market for hosting conventions.

Radisson targets guest service, growth

3/5/2013 7:11:00 AM

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group executives look to enhance the guest satisfaction, brand perception and revenue opportunities with the next phase of changes for their Radisson brand.

Hotel industry’s image is at stake

3/5/2013 7:02:00 AM

Two pending legal actions have the potential to mar the hotel industry’s generally positive image.

5 things to know: 4 March 2013

3/4/2013 9:49:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Starwood, Marriott illustrate commitment in MEA
• Mixed-use development model evolving
• Genting buys Echelon site, will restart development
• Tourism Australia asks hotels to provide free Wi-Fi
• IHG named to ‘Best Big Companies to Work’ list

Carlson CEO talks revenue, diversity and more

3/4/2013 9:38:00 AM

Carlson Companies CEO Trudy Rautio addresses key issues facing the company and the overall industry.

CIOs eye holistic approach for core technology

3/4/2013 8:43:00 AM

The ability to share guest data across a single platform is leading most of the large hotel brands to replace their PMS, CRS and CRM systems.

Investors play it safe with Paris

3/4/2013 8:31:00 AM

Paris hotels report consistently solid performance, making it a safe bet for investors around the globe.

The evolving mixed-use development model

3/4/2013 7:52:00 AM

Mixed-use development has evolved in recent years to feature retail, restaurants, vacation ownership and other property types, as well as hotels.

Renovations, sales a priority for DiamondRock

3/4/2013 7:47:00 AM

The REIT is positioning its assets to take advantage of the industry’s peak cash flow years of 2014 to 2017, President and CEO Mark W. Brugger said.

HPT addresses proposed NH Hoteles investment

3/1/2013 9:59:00 AM

The REIT’s President and COO John Murray said the potential deal could help further the company’s growth, particularly in South and North America.

Consortium to buy China's 7 Days for $688m

3/1/2013 9:03:00 AM

The buyers, who will take the company private, are a consortium of new investors including Carlyle Asia Partners III, Sequoia Capital China Growth 2010 and several existing shareholders.

5 things to know: 1 March 2013

3/1/2013 8:09:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• American Hotel Income Properties buys Lodging Enterprises
• Starwood Capital acquires Principal Hayley Group
• NYC deal volume decreases $2.7 billion in 2012
• RLJ looks to be a REIT ‘aggregator’
• Pegasus: GDS bookings surge nearly 8% in January

STR: US results for week ending 23 February

3/1/2013 7:59:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 1.3% to 61.7%; ADR rose 3.4% to $107.40; and RevPAR increased 4.7% to $66.30.

What keeps a hotel CIO up at night?

3/1/2013 7:55:00 AM

Leading hotel chief information officers and chief technology officers discuss key topics such as innovation, technology governance, fear of new technology, movement to the cloud and guest security.

Firms build growth plans on recovery’s rise

3/1/2013 7:30:00 AM

Hotel companies hatch diverse plans to grow their businesses as industry fundamentals remain strong and opportunities become more plentiful.

Service trumps style, setting in hotels

3/1/2013 7:22:00 AM

What is the key to winning one of Forbes Travel Guide's recently announced star award ratings? Hint: It’s not a million-dollar pool or quartz-lined bathroom.

RLJ to be aggregator in crowded REIT market

3/1/2013 7:18:00 AM

The hotel REIT landscape is too crowded and RLJ Lodging Trust will look to fuel consolidation when M&A activity heats up, said President and CEO Thomas Baltimore.

Ashford enters 2013 with cautious goals

3/1/2013 7:14:00 AM

Chairman and CEO Monty Bennett was reticent on the REIT’s plans for the future, although the company is planning for more long-term growth.

NH Hoteles catches lifelines in HNA, HPT deals

2/28/2013 10:06:00 AM

The debt-riddled Spanish hotel chain will receive $376 million from two separate deals with HNA Group of China and U.S. REIT Hospitality Properties Trust.

Canada results for week ending 23 February

2/28/2013 9:59:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 2.1% to 59.9%; ADR was up 2% to CA$126.33; and RevPAR increased 4.1% to CA$75.63.

5 things to know: 28 February 2013

2/28/2013 9:36:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• NH sells 20% stake to HNA China
• Fattal to acquire 20-hotel Queens Moat portfolio
• HVS: European price per key unchanged
• Travel & tourism outperforms economy
• TravelClick sees softness outside US

Anaheim tops US weekly increases

2/28/2013 9:30:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 10.5% to 77.9%; its ADR increased 9.5% to $123.32; and its RevPAR jumped 20.9% to $96.04.

RLJ pro forma RevPAR up 10.2% in Q4

2/28/2013 9:15:00 AM

The company's pro forma RevPAR increased 7.4% in 2012.

Ashford RevPAR up 5.3% in Q4

2/28/2013 8:51:00 AM

In 2012, RevPAR for all hotels, including the Highland Hospitality portfolio, increased 5.1%.

Carlson’s ‘Ambition’ plan stays on track

2/28/2013 8:20:00 AM

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s Ambition 2015 plan steams ahead as the company looks to continue its quest to expand its footprint and establish consistency across all of its brands.

Investor profile shifts in rebound setting

2/28/2013 8:08:00 AM

Industry leaders identify a trend in changing investor profiles as the financing climate for hotels continues to evolve following the recession.

Outsiders dissect, scrutinize new PCI standard

2/28/2013 7:55:00 AM

HTNG invited outside investigators to pick apart its new solution for payment card security. Hoteliers answered confidently, assured their framework will do the job.

TravelClick: Value creation drives rates

2/28/2013 7:38:00 AM

The outlook for the global hotel industry remains relatively positive, as long as hoteliers maintain rate, capitalize on changing channel mixes and create value creation offerings, sources report.

Hoteliers face complex union negotiations

2/28/2013 7:27:00 AM

One of the major issues facing the hotel industry is the upcoming negotiations between hotel companies and labor unions.

New AH&LA CEO promises strong leadership

2/28/2013 7:21:00 AM

Katherine Lugar says her experience at a retail industry association prepared her for the challenges she faces as an advocate for the hotel business.

Meliá reports 7.9% RevPAR increase in 2012

2/28/2013 7:02:00 AM

The company's increase in RevPAR was a reflection of improvements in average room rates.

La Quinta’s global due diligence strategy

2/27/2013 8:50:00 AM

Before signing a deal to debut its brand in several new countries, executives at La Quinta Inns & Suites invested capital to research what would and would not work in each of the markets.

5 things to know: 27 February 2013

2/27/2013 8:03:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Diana Nelson to assume Carlson chairman role in May
• Katherine Lugar named new president and CEO of the AH&LA
• Analysts question Whitbread’s RevPAR, room openings
• Report: Americans to increase leisure travel during spring
• Las Vegas unveils plans for Global Business District

Brands hit suite spot with revamped offerings

2/27/2013 7:44:00 AM

Executives are revamping suite offerings in a bid to lure guests searching for a hotel experience that resembles that of home.

Carlson leadership: From one Nelson to another

2/27/2013 7:38:00 AM

Diana Nelson is looking forward to continuing the growth plan for Carlson Companies when she succeeds her mother, Marilyn Carlson Nelson, as chairman in May.

Analysts question Q4 Premier Inn results

2/27/2013 7:26:00 AM

Whitbread’s Chief Executive Andy Harrison said an aggressive pricing strategy on leisure business had an impact on RevPAR while the time spent developing some larger hotels cut into room openings during the fourth quarter.

Leaders: ‘Obamacare’ has far-reaching effects

2/27/2013 7:14:00 AM

As the full implementation of the Affordable Care Act draws closer, hotel owners and operators are seeing some little-known consequences affecting their worlds.

Carey Watermark continues deal activity

2/26/2013 9:01:00 AM

Carey Watermark Investors last week took another step in building its portfolio through an approximately $104-million deal for a portfolio of five Hilton-branded hotels.

5 things to know: 26 February 2013

2/26/2013 8:56:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Whitbread reports quarterly sales growth
• Online travel companies losing favor with consumers
• La Quinta focusing on global growth
• Hotels grind through 2013 corporate rate negotiations
• Gurgaon emerges as RevPAR leader in India

Forbes announces its 2013 Star Awards

2/26/2013 8:37:00 AM

Forbes Travel Guide unveiled its 55th announcement of 5-Star, 4-Star and recommended hospitality establishments worldwide.

La Quinta focuses on global growth, investment

2/26/2013 8:14:00 AM

La Quinta Inns & Suites has entered into development agreements to debut the brand in Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Panama, according to company CEO and President Wayne Goldberg.

Premier Inn sales up 2.9% in Q4

2/26/2013 7:53:00 AM

The company's sales growth was slightly suppressed by adverse weather conditions in January, according to CEO Andy Harrison.

The myth of social media

2/26/2013 7:31:00 AM

Nothing, not even the power of the Web, can take the place of old-fashioned hospitality in marketing to potential customers.

Online growth in India creates big opportunity

2/26/2013 7:24:00 AM

Availability and access to the Internet is growing in India, giving hoteliers the opportunity to reach domestic customers in a new way.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

2/26/2013 7:15:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Hilton debuts DoubleTree in Australia; Archipelago International expects to open 42 hotels this year; and Thailand’s RevPAR grew 15.4% in 2012.

5 things to know: 25 February 2013

2/25/2013 10:06:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Tenacity drives the GM search
• Carlson’s road through India
• STR Global releases monthly numbers
• Waning US group demand dampens ADR
• Orlando, Florida, downtown sees renewed interest

STR Global: MEA results for January

2/25/2013 10:01:00 AM

The region reported an 8.2% increase in occupancy to 59.8%; a 1.3% increase in ADR to $182.81; and a 9.6% increase in RevPAR to $109.29.

STR Global: Europe results for January

2/25/2013 9:53:00 AM

Three European markets experienced RevPAR increases of more than 15%: Reykjavik (+26.5% to €30.31); Bratislava (+18.4% to €26.94); and Tallinn (+16.4% to €35.57).

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for January

2/25/2013 9:46:00 AM

In January, the Asia/Pacific region’s occupancy ended the month with a 7.7% increase to 65.2%; its ADR decreased 6.3% to $130.39; and its RevPAR was up 1% to $85.

STR Global: Americas results for January

2/25/2013 8:58:00 AM

In January, the Americas region reported a 3.3% increase in occupancy to 51.3%; a 4.8% gain in ADR to $109.21; and an 8.3% jump in RevPAR to $56.04.

Carlson’s road through India

2/25/2013 8:37:00 AM

The road to success in India is fraught with roadblocks and sudden turns, but savvy hotel companies such as Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group have long turned to local partners to navigate the path of least resistance.

Tenacity and personality drive the GM search

2/25/2013 8:19:00 AM

Companies are engaging in alternative recruitment strategies to find GMs who possess strong leadership skills, business savvy and inviting personalities.

Tauzia targets accelerated growth in Indonesia

2/25/2013 7:44:00 AM

Jakarta-based Tauzia Hotel Management aims to more than quintuple the size of its proprietary brand portfolio within the next three years.

Waning US group demand dampens ADR recovery

2/25/2013 7:07:00 AM

With less group business on the books in the U.S., hoteliers are attempting to steal share through price-point decisions that have stifled the broader ADR recovery.

Accommodating influential millennial travelers

2/25/2013 7:02:00 AM

In today’s rapidly changing industry, hoteliers who ignore the millennial generation find themselves at a competitive disadvantage.

5 things to know: 22 February 2013

2/22/2013 10:07:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Carey Watermark acquires 5 Hilton hotels for $104m
• Host’s Walter optimistic about near-term outlook
• Free Wi-Fi, F&B top travelers’ wish lists
• Okada resigns from Wynn board
• US weekly unemployment claims rise

STR: US results for week ending 16 February

2/22/2013 9:24:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 1.8% to 60.7%; ADR rose 5.1% to $107.97; and RevPAR increased 7.1% to $65.53.

STR: US hotel performance for January

2/22/2013 9:13:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 3.6% to 51%; its ADR was up 5.1% to $105.96; and its RevPAR increased 8.8% to $54.02.

Ed Walter: 2013 ‘off to a great start’

2/22/2013 8:35:00 AM

The Host Hotels & Resorts CEO reported marked improvement in performance metrics in January and sees no major headwinds in the foreseeable future.

GM turns wish list into renovation realities

2/22/2013 8:16:00 AM

When Javed Ali first joined the Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi, he was embarrassed by the property’s condition. Now, he—and guests—couldn’t be happier.

ROFO provisions prove troublesome

2/22/2013 8:03:00 AM

Rights of first offer challenge the relationship between owners and operators who have competing interests when it comes to the sale of a hotel.

Hoteliers invest online as bookings increase

2/22/2013 7:50:00 AM

There’s a reason Accor’s 2013 to-do list begins with significant reinvestment in its distribution systems.

New CEO takes critical eye to Orient-Express

2/22/2013 7:29:00 AM

New CEO John Scott III is reviewing every aspect of the company to dispose of non-core assets, reallocate resources and sniff out cost savings.

STR: Houston hotels top weekly performance

2/21/2013 10:07:00 AM

The market’s occupancy was up 14.5% to 75.9%; ADR rose 21.7% to $113.27; and its RevPAR increased 39.3% to $86.01.

Canada results for week ending 16 February

2/21/2013 9:56:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 0.2% to 58.5%; ADR was up 1.1% to CA$127.02; and RevPAR increased 1.4% to CA$74.33.

5 things to know: 21 February 2013

2/21/2013 9:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• 43 European hotels converting to Wyndham brands
• Host, LaSalle report Q4 earnings
• Strategic to investor: We are not for sale
• STR: US hotels grow performance in January
• IHG growing India portfolio

STR: DC hotels lead January ADR, RevPAR growth

2/21/2013 9:14:00 AM

The U.S. capital achieved double-digit growth in both metrics, including a 25.8% increase in RevPAR for the month, according to STR data.

Loews appoints executive to oversee growth

2/21/2013 8:55:00 AM

Loews Hotels & Resorts promoted Troy Furbay to Chief Investment Officer, responsible for leading the company’s property acquisitions, real estate development and capital raising.

Group and transient segmentation shift visible

2/21/2013 8:39:00 AM

The consensus is the recovery is driven by transient demand, but there are a few explanations that could shed light on the shift in segmentation mix.

Las Vegas hotel market is on the way back

2/21/2013 8:24:00 AM

While not back yet to record levels, hotel occupancies are improving in Las Vegas. However, average daily rates still lag historic highs.

Host reports 5.8% RevPAR increase in Q4

2/21/2013 8:10:00 AM

The company's RevPAR increased 6.4% for the year ending 31 December.

Ownership balance shifts to private equity

2/21/2013 8:00:00 AM

Hotel real estate experts debate whether a long-term infusion of private equity capital—which could lead to more hotel trades—will have a positive or negative effect on hospitality overall.

LaSalle reports 3.8% RevPAR increase in Q4

2/21/2013 7:32:00 AM

The company's RevPAR inceased 4.6% for the year ending 31 December.

Orient-Express' RevPAR up 7% in Q4

2/21/2013 7:18:00 AM

The company's RevPAR increase excluded Copacabana Palace, which was partially closed for renovation for the majority of the quarter.

Sorenson: Fiscal cliff anxiety clouds industry

2/20/2013 10:28:00 AM

Fundamentals in the hotel industry remain strong, but ongoing political uncertainty in the U.S. could derail the recovery, according to Marriott International’s President and CEO Arne Sorenson.

Asset-light Accor hits record growth

2/20/2013 10:20:00 AM

Accor is initiating record expansion amid an asset disposal program, executives said during an earnings webcast.

FelCor drives to increase shareholder value

2/20/2013 10:06:00 AM

Much of FelCor’s activity in 2013 will be an extension of last year’s efforts to boost shareholder value, President and CEO Richard Smith said Tuesday during the company’s quarterly earnings call.

5 things to know: 20 February 2013

2/20/2013 9:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Accor, Marriott, FelCor report 2012 earnings
• Investment firm urges Strategic to sell company
• Fate of 1,200-room Chicago development uncertain
• HVS: Orlando, Florida, showing off revitalized look
• US hotel broker pleads guilty to illegal hotel sales

MGM's Las Vegas Strip RevPAR up 1% in Q4

2/20/2013 8:53:00 AM

The company's wholly owned domestic resorts reported a 2% RevPAR increase in Q4.

Marriott reports 5.2% RevPAR increase in Q4

2/20/2013 8:46:00 AM

Marriott reported a 6.1% system-wide RevPAR increase for the full year ending 31 December.

FelCor reports 4.8% RevPAR increase in Q4

2/20/2013 8:28:00 AM

The REIT reported a 5.1% RevPAR increase for the year ending 31 December.

Accor opens 266 hotels in 2012

2/20/2013 7:55:00 AM

The company opened 38,085 rooms, 48% of which were in the Asia/Pacific region.

Finding the right hire doesn’t depend on age

2/20/2013 7:43:00 AM

When it comes to choosing between risk-taking millennials or seasoned professionals, hiring executives are tasked with seeking out the right candidate to fit the job at hand.

Hotel development in Mexico gains traction

2/20/2013 7:35:00 AM

With an improving economy and more investment options, Mexico’s hotel industry is seeing growth in a number of areas, according to speakers at the Mexico Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference.

5 things to know: 19 February 2013

2/19/2013 10:01:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IHG RevPAR up 5% in 2012
• German investor confidence at 3-year high
• Few hotel brands debut during this upturn
• South Africa hotels increase income by 8.1% in Q4
• 2012 airline on-time performance service statistics

IHG reports 3.9% global RevPAR increase in Q4

2/19/2013 9:37:00 AM

The company's global RevPAR increased 5.2% in 2012.

Malaysia: Hotel indicators on the upside

2/19/2013 9:12:00 AM

Sustained long-term growth is projected for Malaysia’s economy, which should bode well for the country’s hotel industry.

FIBRAs alter Mexico’s hotel investment mindset

2/19/2013 8:35:00 AM

The equivalent to REITs in the U.S., FIBRAs have an important impact on the transactions market in Mexico, according to speakers at the Mexico Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference.

Investing in secondary markets is lucrative

2/19/2013 7:58:00 AM

Secondary market investors are able to capitalize on factors that drive customer demand and influence supply.

Delta Hotels plans big moves in Canada

2/19/2013 7:38:00 AM

The Canadian hotel company is planning a brand repositioning to make Delta one of Canada’s top full-service hotels, according to President and CEO Kenneth Greene.

Where are the new hotel brands?

2/19/2013 7:19:00 AM

Muted levels of new hotel construction probably account for few hotel brand introductions.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

2/19/2013 7:04:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: New Orleans benefits from Super Bowl week; U.S.-based brands on the move; and Holiday Inn brand growing in Colombia.

5 things to know: 28 February 2012

2/18/2013 10:14:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Ryman CEO shares color on Gaylord deal
• Executives bullish on outlook for Mexico
• Australia’s largest hotel to get bigger
• Brand USA CEO provides 100-day update
• ‘Hotel Week’ promos thwart soft spots

GHM hotels offer tailor-made experiences

2/18/2013 8:49:00 AM

General Hotel Management is celebrating 20 years of providing tailor-made luxury hotels in Southeast Asia, and the company has big plans for the future.

Behind-the-scenes look at Gaylord evolution

2/18/2013 8:25:00 AM

Gaylord’s transformation as a REIT was one of the big stories of 2012. But it wasn’t the CEO’s first choice of how the company should go forward.

Dynamic DoubleTree picks up expansion pace

2/18/2013 7:53:00 AM

The upscale Hilton brand opened 49 hotels during 2012. The next 12 months promise to bring even more growth, said brand head John Greenleaf.

Mexico hoteliers bullish about future

2/18/2013 7:30:00 AM

Executives speaking at the Mexico Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference are looking forward to a continued surge of improvement for the country’s hotels.

Seeking a new generation of revenue managers

2/18/2013 7:16:00 AM

The next wave of revenue managers need to possess leadership skills, a thirst for knowledge and an interest in digital-marketing trends. But that kind of talent is hard to find.

5 things to know: 15 February 2013

2/15/2013 9:27:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• RevPAR recovery eludes many US metro markets
• Marriott revisits stalled Aurora, CO Gaylord project
• Portugal sets inbound tourist record
• Econo Lodge mandates green initiative
• Choice-brand hoteliers spend 3 hours/week on review responses

STR: US results for week ending 9 February

2/15/2013 8:52:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 0.4% to 56%; ADR rose 5.2% to $107.27; and RevPAR increased 5.6% to $60.11.

Executives scout for stocks with upside

2/15/2013 8:28:00 AM

Whether scouting for talent in Major League Baseball or repurchasing company stock, potential is only half the battle.

Many major US markets still trail peak RevPARs

2/15/2013 8:08:00 AM

Many major U.S. markets have yet to reach their previous peaks in RevPAR, according to an STR Analytics analysis.

Deal-pricing analyses hone in on accuracy

2/15/2013 7:11:00 AM

Deal-pricing analyses can help appraisers gather data that reflects the actions of the buyers and sellers in the marketplace.

5 things to know: 14 February 2013

2/14/2013 10:08:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Extended stay posts record RevPAR in 2012
• Hotels increase booking options on social, mobile
• STR releases US, Canada weekly results
• Q4 earnings from TripAdvisor, Rezidor
• US hotel activity up in January

New Orleans posts strong ADR, RevPAR results

2/14/2013 9:48:00 AM

The market's occupancy was up 2.5% to 68.9%; ADR jumped 71.7% to $224.05; and RevPAR grew 76% to $154.44.

Canada results for week ending 9 February

2/14/2013 9:21:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 0.5% to 57%; ADR was up 1.5% to CA$126.65; and RevPAR increased 2.1% to CA$72.14.

Hyatt continues to grow global brand presence

2/14/2013 9:03:00 AM

Acknowledging the company struggled during 2012, CEO and President Mark Hoplamazian is optimistic 2013 will be a year of stable growth and continued group business.

Super Bowl trumps Mardi Gras in New Orleans

2/14/2013 8:05:00 AM

Hoteliers in New Orleans are cashing in on Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl, but which event generated a higher rate premium? Analysis from STR Analytics reveals some interesting insights.

US hotel activity inches ahead in January

2/14/2013 7:55:00 AM

The Hotel Industry Pulse index, which gauges business conditions in the U.S. hotel industry, increased 0.2% during the month.

Thailand reports RevPAR, demand growth in '12

2/14/2013 7:45:00 AM

Thailand’s RevPAR grew 15.4% in 2012 to THB2,232, according to STR Global.

Hot hotel markets fuel design-related growth

2/14/2013 7:28:00 AM

As the overall economy and hotel-industry performance improve, designers and purchasers take more aggressive business approaches to grow their portfolios.

Development drives hiring in 2013

2/14/2013 7:02:00 AM

Hotel management companies are hiring, with several attributing their growth to an increase in ground-up development.

5 things to know: 13 February 2013

2/13/2013 10:03:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Nylo Hotels on a strong growth trajectory
• Buyers optimistic about business travel amid rising costs
• STR, STR Global release January global pipeline data
• Ryman: Gaylord to reap record returns in 2013
• Canadian travel to US expected to grow 4% in 2013

STR Global: MEA pipeline for January

2/13/2013 9:20:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 480 hotels totaling 118,023 rooms, according to the January 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Hyatt reports 7.5% RevPAR increase in Q4

2/13/2013 8:36:00 AM

The company's U.S. select-service hotel RevPAR increased 8.7% compared with the fourth quarter of 2011.

Designers, purchasers share optimistic views

2/13/2013 8:29:00 AM

There are good days ahead for hotel designers and purchasers as properties become more distinct and memorable, according to industry leaders at the Network of Executive Women in Hospitality Leadership Conference.

STR Global: Europe pipeline for January

2/13/2013 8:25:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 869 hotels totaling 145,303 rooms, according to the January 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for January

2/13/2013 8:20:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,810 hotels totaling 391,002 rooms, according to the January 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

The art and science of forecasting

2/13/2013 8:03:00 AM

Forecasting hotel industry performance requires insight into data, an understanding of economics and the interpretation of anecdotal evidence from hoteliers.

Nylo Hotels is on the move

2/13/2013 7:51:00 AM

Small boutique brand Nylo Hotels looks to grow its portfolio through conversions and new builds.

Ryman hungry for shares, not assets

2/13/2013 7:17:00 AM

The former Gaylord Entertainment Company will put its balance sheet to work repurchasing shares instead of adding to its portfolio of four convention hotels.

Multi-property deals to spur Choice’s growth

2/12/2013 10:05:00 AM

Choice Hotels International CEO Steve Joyce said the company will follow up on its largest deal in history by closing more multiple-property deals in 2013.

5 things to know: 12 February 2013

2/12/2013 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Choice Hotels eyes aggressive portfolio growth
• Trivago: Europe hotel prices up 38%
• Second-tier US markets hook developers
• G6 Hospitality opens 63 hotels in 2012
• STR releases US monthly pipeline

Choice's domestic RevPAR up 4.2% in Q4

2/12/2013 9:15:00 AM

The company's domestic system-wide RevPAR increased 6.2% for the year ended 31 December 2012 compared with the prior year.

Constant change is new reality

2/12/2013 8:55:00 AM

Hotel executives need to be nimble and creative as they maneuver through a political and economic environment of uncertainty. Those who don’t may not survive.

Development execs share recipes for success

2/12/2013 8:26:00 AM

Development executives during the Hospitality Law Conference said they wish to develop in U.S. secondary and tertiary markets.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for January

2/12/2013 8:11:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,637 projects totaling 307,289 rooms, according to the January 2013 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: C./S. America pipeline for January

2/12/2013 7:56:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 239 hotels totaling 36,936 rooms, according to the January 2013 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for January

2/12/2013 7:51:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 126 hotels totaling 20,436 rooms, according to the January 2013 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Gettys’ Hill shares 5 key hotel trends

2/12/2013 7:26:00 AM

As chairman and CEO of design firm Gettys, Roger Hill is in a unique position to observe shifts in the tide. These five in particular will shape the hotel landscape for years to come, he said.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

2/12/2013 7:12:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of hotel news from Europe: London is projected to see increased demand in 2013; Spanish chains share growth strategies; and Swiss hoteliers await a rebound.

Scandinavia to see modest growth in deals

2/11/2013 9:36:00 AM

After a 248% increase in deal volume during 2012, the Scandinavian hotel transaction market is projected to see further improvement during the year ahead, according to Nordic Hotel Consulting.

5 things to know: 11 February 2013

2/11/2013 9:28:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Virgin’s portfolio taking shape
• Indian Hotels reviewing options for Orient-Express bid
• Las Vegas sets tourism record in 2012
• South Korean hotels bet on Chinese New Year demand
• Study: Indian hotels to see marginal revenue growth

Small-town boutiques offer big advantages

2/11/2013 9:16:00 AM

Highlighting unique experiences and organic culture, small-town boutique hotels are capitalizing on their rural landscapes to attract travelers.

Boutiques take unique approach to marketing

2/11/2013 8:55:00 AM

Several design-focused hotels marketed their properties during down periods in January and February by leaning heavily on partnerships, localization and social media.

Risk identification key to success

2/11/2013 7:34:00 AM

Strategic issue diagnosis is a structured process that identifies risks and opportunities, and is likely to impact the hotel industry.

Virgin’s portfolio taking shape

2/11/2013 7:13:00 AM

With its first property nearing the finish line and another announcement on the way, Virgin Hotels is beginning to hit its stride, CEO Raul Leal told HotelNewsNow.com.

5 things to know: 8 February 2013

2/8/2013 10:16:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Payroll tax hike deals blow to consumer confidence
• STR: Preliminary January data shows spike in luxury RevPAR
• Winter storm Nemo causing travel havoc in Northeast US
• Best Western expects busy spring travel season
• eMarketer: Ratings, reviews increasing in importance

Starwood Hotels ‘resolutely bullish’

2/8/2013 9:49:00 AM

Executives at Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide project solid RevPAR growth near the upper end of their 5% to 7% guidance for 2013.

STR: US results for week ending 2 February

2/8/2013 8:05:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 3.6% to 53.5%; ADR rose 6% to $106.64; and RevPAR increased 9.8% to $57.06.

One GM’s path from Antarctica to Delhi

2/8/2013 7:37:00 AM

Preet Inder Singh had dreams of studying geology in Antarctica until a detour funneled him into an exciting career in hospitality.

US payroll tax hike could hit hotels

2/8/2013 7:32:00 AM

The 2% payroll tax hike that went into effect earlier this year could cause hotel consumer satisfaction scores to drop and travel spending to decrease, according to sources.

G6 CEO talks new brands, business alternatives

2/8/2013 7:10:00 AM

Jim Amorosia has Blackstone’s buy-in—and some hefty expectations—as he attempts to more than double the 1,000-property plus G6 Hospitality portfolio.

Technology Pulse: A roundup of digital news

2/7/2013 12:43:00 PM

This month's roundup of news from the technology sector highlights TripAdvisor’s metasearch debut; the launch of Wikivoyage; and a PhoCusWright report on mobile payments and near-field communication.

3 yielding lessons learned from retail

2/7/2013 12:36:00 PM

The hospitality industry can learn a lot about revenue management from retailers, including recognizing its importance, understanding current and prospective customers, and quantifying buying behavior.

The satisfaction standoff

2/7/2013 12:27:00 PM

Will the rise of online review sites sound the death knell for traditional guest surveys? Most hoteliers suggest juggling various sources of guest feedback information, online or off.

How to benchmark digital marketing efforts

2/7/2013 12:20:00 PM

New tools allow digital hotel marketers to track campaign effectiveness, measure conversion rates and set up benchmarks for website traffic.

5 things to know: 7 February 2013

2/7/2013 10:01:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. weekly performance strong, led by New Orleans
• HVS outlines new hotel construction trends
• Pillsbury talks globalization, acquisition market
• Starwood Hotels reports Q4 RevPAR growth of 4.1%
• HVS targets Kosice, Slovakia, as next tourist hot spot

Aries aids Innisfree in freeing up debt

2/7/2013 9:03:00 AM

Looking to rid itself of cumbersome debt, Innisfree Hotels & Resorts turns to Aries Capital to help it refinance two multimillion-dollar debt packages.

New Orleans benefits from Super Bowl week

2/7/2013 8:40:00 AM

The market's occupancy rose 24.5% to 71.1%; its ADR jumped 125.9% to $289.03; and its RevPAR increased 181.3% to $205.59.

Canada results week ending 2 February 2013

2/7/2013 8:39:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry experienced mixed results in the three key performance metrics during the week ending 2 February 2013.

Six Senses’ new CEO sets lofty growth goals

2/7/2013 8:19:00 AM

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas is aiming to expand from nine hotels and resorts to 40 hotels and resorts in the next five years, newly appointed CEO Neil Jacobs told HotelNewsNow.com.

Ambient scent marketing activates olfactory

2/7/2013 7:22:00 AM

The sense of smell can be harnessed as a way to further guest satisfaction and develop a loyal consumer base for hoteliers.

Starwood Hotels posts 4.1% RevPAR gain in Q4

2/7/2013 7:02:00 AM

Worldwide system-wide RevPAR for same-store hotels increased 5% in constant dollars for the full year compared to 2011.

5 things to know: 6 February 2013

2/6/2013 9:56:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Katie Taylor steps down as Four Seasons CEO
• Facebook ramps up focus on hotel sector
• Concorde portfolio sold to Middle East investor
• Roomnight growth drives Expedia’s strong Q4
• Negative outlook for DC group meetings

Wyndham eyes ‘creative’ growth avenues

2/6/2013 9:53:00 AM

Wyndham Worldwide is leveraging its timeshare business as a means of breaking into sought-after markets, executives said during an earnings call.

Facebook ramps up hotel industry presence

2/6/2013 9:15:00 AM

The company recently hired an executive to oversee hotel industry partnerships and communicate the relevance of two new products for hoteliers.

Wyndham reports 4% system-wide RevPAR increase

2/6/2013 8:35:00 AM

The company's U.S. RevPAR increased 6% compared with the fourth quarter of 2011, while system-wide RevPAR increased 4%.

One fewer female CEO in hotel industry

2/6/2013 8:22:00 AM

The resignation of Four Seasons CEO Kathleen Taylor narrows the number of women executives who hold top positions in their companies.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index up 6.5% in January

2/6/2013 8:16:00 AM

Favorable increases in ADR and RevPAR are expected during 2013.

Teaching staff members to sell

2/6/2013 7:25:00 AM

Hoteliers need to capitalize on their staff members who have an impact on sales, regardless of their roles.

Hungry hotel REITs dip toes in value-adds

2/6/2013 7:04:00 AM

With quality urban assets largely picked over, some REITs are expanding beyond their traditional sweet spots to acquire value-add opportunities in major markets.

Four Seasons announces CEO transition

2/5/2013 12:52:00 PM

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announced that Kathleen Taylor will be leaving her role as CEO. The company has initiated a search for Taylor’s successor.

5 things to know: 5 February 2013

2/5/2013 9:53:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Financial incentives convince owners to reflag
• TravelClick data shows moderate growth led by ADR
• HVS: Taiwan hotel market poised to ‘bloom’
• Las Vegas Hotel & Casino first to join Leo soft brand
• Trepp: Investors realizing more CMBS losses

Creativity spurs growth for Choice’s brands

2/5/2013 9:28:00 AM

Led by Steve Joyce’s desire to leverage its balance sheet, Choice Hotels International is expanding the footprints of its brands by adding multiple properties in single deals.

Financial incentives convince owners to reflag

2/5/2013 8:35:00 AM

Franchisors increasingly are floating key money, sliver equity and performance guarantees to incentivize owners to add their brand flags.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

2/5/2013 8:18:00 AM

Included in this roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: Year-end hotel performance from STR Global; a dearth of branded economy hotels in Saudi Arabia; and Dubai hotels continue to profit.

Sustainable tourism helps destinations thrive

2/5/2013 7:20:00 AM

Sustainable tourism can prove successful, but there needs to be active steps taken to ensure that a destination’s resources prosper.

5 things to know: 4 February 2013

2/4/2013 10:25:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Special report: “The evolution of meetings business”
• Pegasus: GDS booking volume back on track
• Travel employment rebounds in January
• Athens an outlier in Greece tourism dropoff
• Cheapest dates for hotels in top US cities

Spanish brand CEOs eye 2013 global expansion

2/4/2013 10:01:00 AM

CEOs from Spain’s largest hotel chains, including Meliá Hotels International, NH Hoteles and Barceló Hotels & Resorts, charted their paths to global expansion during the FITUR travel trade fair.

6 management tips to help rate recovery

2/4/2013 9:10:00 AM

Ownership needs to communicate clearly to the management team that capturing rate remains a top priority in 2013.

Hoteliers cater to global inbound demand

2/4/2013 9:03:00 AM

Hoteliers are developing packages, programs and amenities that cater to the wants—and wallets—of an increasing number of international travelers.

Opportunity knocks, and in walks Ed Watkins

2/4/2013 8:52:00 AM

Using the philosophy of answering the door when opportunity knocks, HotelNewsNow.com welcomes respected industry journalist Ed Watkins as the newest member of its editorial team.

Special report: The evolution of meetings

2/1/2013 3:45:00 PM

Despite shifts in the meetings industry to accommodate shrinking budgets and time-starved professionals, group business continues to lag its transient counterpart, according to an analysis from STR.

Group segmentation data mirrors meeting trends

2/1/2013 3:42:00 PM

Group demand has not recovered at the pace of transient demand, becoming less concentrated in the top 25 markets, according to data from STR.

Negative outlook for DC group meetings

2/1/2013 3:17:00 PM

2012 wasn’t a kind year for Washington, D.C.’s group meetings market. But planned improvements to the city’s 2.3-million-square-foot convention center could help turn things around.

Convention center expansions drive demand

2/1/2013 3:09:00 PM

Despite the economy’s recent toll on meetings bookings, a recent JLL report points to RevPAR increases at hotels located near convention centers that have recently expanded, with further growth expected.

Technology a differentiator for meetings biz

2/1/2013 2:55:00 PM

Hoteliers are introducing proprietary applications they hope will foster brand advantages in the group market, but some say it’s too little, too late.

Hoteliers combat shrinking meetings trend

2/1/2013 2:48:00 PM

Hoteliers discuss best practices to combat a trend toward smaller and shorter meetings.

5 things to know: 1 February 2013

2/1/2013 9:31:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• TravelClick: Q1 committed occupancy up 1.4%
• HRG: Corporate rates bumped up 1.4% in 2012
• ESA turnaround focusing on existing portfolio
• JLL: American deal activity will soon heat up
• US unemployment rate edges up to 7.9%

Hard Rock plans global hotel push

2/1/2013 9:06:00 AM

The company’s Chairman Jim Allen said Hard Rock could triple its number of hotel properties during the next three to five years.

REITs watch fundamentals, cost of capital rise

2/1/2013 8:40:00 AM

Some REIT executives during ALIS said it’s a good time to buy while others cited a rising cost of capital as reason to focus investment internally.

CEO ‘dances’ into Extended Stay turnaround

2/1/2013 7:58:00 AM

The struggling ESA chain received a jolt of energy from former Starbucks CEO Jim Donald, who is enacting change through his ambitious DANCE strategic plan.

Marriott dominates Q4 Facebook fracas

2/1/2013 7:30:00 AM

Marriott Hotels & Resorts’ playful, sarcastic posts generated the most fan actions compared to seven other global hotel brands, according to an Expion analysis conducted exclusively for HotelNewsNow.com.

STR: US results for week ending 26 January

2/1/2013 7:21:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 0.6% to 54%; ADR rose 4.4% to $106.31; and RevPAR increased 5% to $57.42.

Understanding the realities of EB-5 financing

2/1/2013 6:45:00 AM

EB-5 financing continues to be a viable source of capital for sponsors of hotel projects and foreign investors.

Social media informs acquisition decisions

1/31/2013 10:20:00 AM

Hotel investors increasingly are using social media as another tool when evaluating deals.

5 things to know: 31 January 2013

1/31/2013 9:55:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Super Bowl boost projected for NOLA
• JLL: Robust investment in Thailand’s major markets
• Amadeus report outlines key Asia/Pac trends
• Social media informing investment activity
• STR: Anaheim tops weekly gains

Swiss hotel industry hopes for a comeback

1/31/2013 9:36:00 AM

Although Switzerland has faced setbacks, the country’s hoteliers are hopeful 2013 will bring an increase in global visitors and stronger metrics.

New Orleans hotels get Super Bowl boost

1/31/2013 8:34:00 AM

Hoteliers in the Big Easy project packed houses and strong rates for Super Bowl weekend.

Canada results for week ending 26 January

1/31/2013 8:25:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy fell 3% to 54.8%; ADR rose 0.3% to CA$125.95; and RevPAR was down 2.8% to CA$69.04.

Anaheim hotels top weekly performance

1/31/2013 7:40:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 16.4% to 74.7%; its ADR increased 15.6% to $129.64; and its RevPAR jumped 34.5% to $96.87.

Palladium Hotel Group emerges with new focus

1/31/2013 7:20:00 AM

The Spanish hotel chain, formerly known as Fiesta Hotel Group, has ambitious expansion plans in Europe and the Americas as it approaches the 50-hotel mark.

US Q4 GDP goes negative: Should we be worried?

1/30/2013 10:56:00 AM

The U.S. Commerce Department released a negative estimate of real GDP change for the fourth quarter. Should the hotel industry treat this as cause for concern?

5 things to know: 30 January 2013

1/30/2013 10:05:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Drury tops Market Metrix satisfaction scores
• US GDP contracts 0.1% in Q4
• Carlson survey identifies traveler trends
• Sheraton Macao Hotel adds 2,067 rooms
• Pebblebrook buys Embassy Suites San Diego for $112m

How to structure a digital marketing team

1/30/2013 9:38:00 AM

Experts at HSMAI’s Digital Marketing Strategy Conference said it’s imperative that digital marketing employees are in close contact with other departments.

Lowe, Destination connection looks for growth

1/30/2013 9:21:00 AM

Lowe Enterprises and its subsidiary Destination Hotels & Resorts are looking to increase the number of hotels in their portfolios by focusing on independent properties in resort and urban locations.

Cuba supply hurdles limit post-embargo growth

1/30/2013 7:56:00 AM

With an anticipated end to decades-old travel embargos, Cuba’s undersupplied hotel industry is ill-prepared for the potential influx of demand, sources report.

Stability can be found despite cycles

1/30/2013 7:19:00 AM

The key to long-term success lies in an efficient cost structure, customer loyalty and establishing a foothold overseas, according to Deloitte’s Adam Weissenberg.

STR Analytics to oversee HOST program

1/30/2013 7:12:00 AM

The Hotel Operating Statistics (HOST) Program, which includes the HOST Almanac and Custom HOST Reports, will now be the responsibility of STR Analytics.

UNWTO: Global travel to remain robust in 2013

1/29/2013 2:40:00 PM

The global tourism industry shows no signs of slowing after topping the 1-billion mark last year, according to new data from the UNWTO.

HIL: Hotel future outlook improves in December

1/29/2013 9:45:00 AM

The Hotel Industry Leading indicator, or HIL, bumped up slight during December after a flat reading in November.

5 things to know: 29 January 2013

1/29/2013 9:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Business travelers booking more online
• Travelers ring in new year with last-minute bookings
• Report: Blackstone to refinance Hotel del Coronado debt
• UNWTO: International arrivals grew by 4% in 2012
• Summit buys 5 Marriott-branded hotels for $135m

ALIS highlights industry optimism

1/29/2013 8:57:00 AM

With solid underlying fundamentals in the hotel industry, the 2,500 attendees of ALIS had a positive outlook going into 2013 and beyond.

Digital marketing hindered by poor ROI tools

1/29/2013 7:55:00 AM

Measuring the performance of travel marketing initiatives remains difficult even as the consumption of content on digital devices skyrockets, experts said Monday during an ATME think tank.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

1/29/2013 7:41:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: STR Global releases year-end performance and pipeline results; China’s economy exits slowdown; and Asia/Pacific hotel transaction volume is set to increase in 2013.

Revisit pool-lift policies as deadline nears

1/29/2013 7:20:00 AM

With the U.S. DOJ pool-lift requirement date nearing, hoteliers need to ensure their properties are meeting the new regulations.

Value Place’s new partner fuels growth plan

1/29/2013 7:12:00 AM

The $100-million capital investment from Lindsay Goldberg LLC was the final step of the company’s restructuring, according to CEO Dan Weber.

5 things to know: 28 January 2013

1/28/2013 9:58:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IREFAC shares investment insights
• trivago: Dresden, Germany, hotels top global rankings
• DoubleTree doubles down on development
• Canadians target travel to US
• Hotel plans take shape on Hawaii’s Lanai

IREFAC closes ALIS with investment insights

1/28/2013 9:50:00 AM

IREFAC closed ALIS with a candid discussion about popular trends in near-term hotel investment, from financing to hot markets to the overall brand outlook.

GPH maintains competitive edge in Singapore

1/28/2013 9:20:00 AM

Despite challenges in Singapore, Global Premium Hotels maintains its status as one of the country's largest hotel chains.

Executives identify hot US hotel markets

1/28/2013 9:10:00 AM

Executives highlighted performance in some of the country’s hottest hotel markets during a breakout session at ALIS.

Scotland ends year with few bright spots

1/28/2013 7:14:00 AM

The country’s hotel sector suffered during 2012 despite a few bright spots from key markets.

Capitalizing on emerging markets’ potential

1/28/2013 6:59:00 AM

Emerging markets will post faster growth in hotel room revenues during the next five years than their developed counterparts, making them integral to the growth strategies of the world’s leading hotel players.

5 things to know: 25 January 2013

1/25/2013 9:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Scotland hotel returns outperform Europe
• Brazil consumer confidence wanes, Europe’s picks up
• JLL: Investment capital funneled into real estate
• US resort sector experiencing rebound
• Sunstone planning to sell 1,222-room portfolio

Sky Hospitality driven by success

1/25/2013 9:42:00 AM

Though Sky Hospitality initially found success developing along Florida’s I-75 corridor, the company’s expertise was recruited quickly by investors throughout the country.

ALIS attendees finally find the right tenor

1/25/2013 9:27:00 AM

From the sky-is-falling hysteria to rose-colored-glasses-skewed euphoria, attendees at ALIS have a hard time hitting the market. They finally got it right at this year’s show.

STR: US results for week ending 19 January

1/25/2013 8:29:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 6.1% to 54.5%; ADR rose 5.6% to $105.73; and RevPAR increased 12.1% to $57.57.

Franchisors plan to grow, but at what cost?

1/25/2013 8:19:00 AM

During ALIS, a panel of executives from hotel brands debated the potential for hotel oversaturation, particularly in the U.S.

3 management resolutions for a successful 2013

1/25/2013 7:29:00 AM

As 2013 kicks off, hoteliers should resolve to keep employees energized, communicate properly and get involved in the community to ensure a prosperous new year.

Resort rebound piques investor interest

1/25/2013 7:14:00 AM

Things are looking up for the resort segment, where demand increases and loosening debt are spurring interest from investors, according to a panel at ALIS.

5 things to know: 24 January 2013

1/24/2013 10:09:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Red Lion plans new brand segment
• Ernst & Young: Bahrain sees significant occupancy increase
• Luxe Worldwide Hotels adds 5 member properties
• DC hotels see boost from inauguration festivities
• US initial unemployment claims fall

Management executives chart challenging 2013

1/24/2013 9:56:00 AM

Executives from some of the country’s largest management companies said they’re expecting good returns during 2013, although there exists plenty of room for improvement.

Red Lion reorganizes, adds Leo soft brand

1/24/2013 9:46:00 AM

The company has divided into three different brands with the goal of helping guests differentiate between the full-service and limited-service product.

Loews eyes portfolios, singles to fuel growth

1/24/2013 9:28:00 AM

Loews Hotels is searching for portfolios and single assets to reach its goal of 50 hotels within three years.

Red Lion announces new brand

1/24/2013 9:06:00 AM

Red Lion Hotels Corporation announced on Thursday plans for The Leo Hotel Collection, which will complement the newly redefined segmentation of Red Lion Hotels and Red Lion Inns & Suites.

Canada results for week ending 19 January

1/24/2013 8:33:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy fell 0.9% to 53%; ADR rose 1.1% to CA$124.22; and RevPAR was up 0.2% to CA$65.85.

STR reports Q4 2012 results

1/24/2013 8:30:00 AM

The industry’s occupancy increased 2.4% to 56.6%; ADR rose 4% to $106.54; and RevPAR was up 6.5% to $60.34.

DC hotels see boost from inauguration weekend

1/24/2013 7:25:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 20.2% to 57.7%; its ADR was up 31.6% to $169.66; and its RevPAR jumped 58.2% to $97.84.

Aqua seeks to broaden Hawaii’s appeal

1/24/2013 7:15:00 AM

Hawaii’s position as a diverse market drove Aqua Hospitality’s decision to restructure the company into three brands, according to President and CEO Ben Rafter.

STR Global: MEA hotel results for 2012

1/23/2013 10:12:00 AM

In 2012, the region reported a 6.1% increase in occupancy to 60.3%; a 0.5% decrease in ADR to $161.64; and a 5.6% increase in RevPAR to $97.54.

Data trackers set optimistic tone for ALIS

1/23/2013 10:04:00 AM

Five years after the industry’s worst downturn on record, data shows hotels are nearly back to peak performance and metrics are expected to rise for the foreseeable future.

5 things to know: 23 January 2013

1/23/2013 9:52:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR revises 2013, 2014 forecasts
• DLA Piper: Hotel executives remain bullish on industry
• Value Place secures $100m private equity investment
• STR, STR Global release year-end global data
• Choice adds 9 hotels in UK

STR Global: Europe hotel results for 2012

1/23/2013 9:44:00 AM

In December 2012, the region increased 2.8% in occupancy to 55%; rose 1.3% in ADR to €96.95; and was up 4.1% in RevPAR to €53.33.

STR Global: Asia/Pac hotel results for 2012

1/23/2013 9:36:00 AM

In 2012, the Asia/Pacific region’s occupancy ended the year virtually flat with a 0.5% increase to 68.3%; its ADR increased 0.9% to $129.26; and its RevPAR was up 1.4% to $88.25.

Emerging markets fraught with development risk

1/23/2013 9:12:00 AM

Rapid development and unpredictable shifts in market dynamics are only two hurdles facing investors building hotels in countries such as India and China, according to panelists at the Hotel Investment Forum India.

STR releases updated 2013, 2014 forecasts

1/23/2013 8:31:00 AM

Overall, in 2013 occupancy is expected to rise 0.8% to 61.9%; ADR is forecasted to increase 4.9% to $111.27; and RevPAR is expected to grow 5.7% to $68.86.

ALIS: Leaders talk tech, mobile and government

1/23/2013 8:22:00 AM

To remain relevant in consumers’ minds, the hotel industry needs to enhance its technology offerings, according to executives during ALIS.

STR Global: Americas hotel results for 2012

1/23/2013 8:13:00 AM

In 2012, the Americas region reported a 2.4% increase in occupancy to 61.5%; a 3.8% gain in ADR to $108.53; and a 6.3% jump in RevPAR to $66.77.

Measuring variance in hotel market forecasts

1/23/2013 7:30:00 AM

A look back at STR’s “Market Forecast Reports” shows generally little variance between predictions and actual results in the top 25 U.S. markets.

Deloitte survey examines travel loyalty

1/23/2013 7:20:00 AM

Only 8% of survey respondents indicated they always stay at the same hotel brand.

Value Place secures $100m capital investment

1/23/2013 7:03:00 AM

The investment allows Value Place to add at least 50 new company locations while continuing to expand its current franchise base.

ALIS 2013

1/22/2013 2:20:00 PM

Breaking news and headlines from the Americas Lodging Investment Summit at LA Live in Los Angeles.

PwC US releases updated 2013 forecast

1/22/2013 12:44:00 PM

An updated lodging forecast released by PwC US anticipates stronger RevPAR recovery in 2013, compared to the previous outlook.

US hotel activity down in December

1/22/2013 12:42:00 PM

Business activity in U.S. hotels declined to a reading of 103.6 in December, according to the latest reading of the Hotel Industry's Pulse indicator.

5 things to know: 22 January 2013

1/22/2013 9:59:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IHG to receive $31m in liquidated damages from FelCor
• HIP: US hotel activity down in December
• BWI, Hampton, Starwood reveal 2013 pipelines
• JLL: Market confidence up in Dubai
• Deloitte: Loyalty programs might drive disloyalty

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

1/22/2013 9:51:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: Global pipelines are released; a snapshot of hotel investment; and a detailed look at Canada.

India’s economic slowdown spills to hotels

1/22/2013 9:44:00 AM

The country’s GDP slowdown is taking its toll on the hotel industry, where executives at the Hotel Investment Forum India said they are seeing hits to rate and profitability.

Thayer brings hoteliers, technology together

1/22/2013 9:27:00 AM

An annual Thayer Ventures event in advance of ALIS was a win-win for both the technology companies involved and the hoteliers in attendance.

No-frills hotels attract millennial travelers

1/22/2013 8:58:00 AM

This emerging segment of hotels offers its consumers all the amenities they desire—comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, quiet rooms—at cheaper rates.

STR: US hotel performance for December

1/22/2013 8:39:00 AM

Overall, the U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 3.2% to 49.1%; its ADR was up 4.3% to $104.43; and its RevPAR increased 7.7% to $51.22.

STR: US hotels report continued growth in 2012

1/22/2013 8:36:00 AM

Overall, the U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy increased 2.5% to 61.4%; its ADR was up 4.2% to $106.10; and its RevPAR grew 6.8% to $65.17.

Caribbean hotels report strong RevPAR rebound

1/22/2013 7:43:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, the Caribbean market's occupancy increased 7.1% to 66.4%; ADR was up 3.8% to $170.50; and RevPAR rose 11.1% to $113.24.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index up 20.9% in 2012

1/22/2013 7:35:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index reported a 20.9% increase in 2012 to 2,448 and was up 5.2% in December 2012 as compared with December 2011.

Executives weigh importance of brands in India

1/22/2013 7:31:00 AM

Brands are playing an increasingly important role in India’s crowded hotel landscape, executives said during a panel discussion at the Hotel Investment Forum India.

5 things to know: 18 January 2013

1/18/2013 9:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• China’s economy exits slowdown with Q4 growth
• Fitch: Post-fiscal cliff US public finance outlook stable
• Accor gross revenue up 11% in 2012
• STR releases weekly US, Canada data
• Survey: Most marketers ill-equipped to handle influx of data

WTTC charts India’s growth potential

1/18/2013 8:54:00 AM

Travel and tourism accounted for 6% of India’s total GDP—a percentage that will only go up, according to the WTTC’s David Scowsill.

Mediocrity detrimental to leadership success

1/18/2013 8:45:00 AM

Leaders who accept the status quo are detrimental to improving the hotel industry.

India’s biggest problem hides its potential

1/18/2013 8:37:00 AM

One huge challenge kept popping up in my discussions with executives and property-level managers alike while touring Delhi’s hotel sector: finding the right employees.

Hotels bring lifelong learning to Hilton GM

1/18/2013 8:21:00 AM

Chris Coffin of the Hilton Columbus Downtown was pushed into the hotel industry by default during his teenage years and has embraced every opportunity since.

STR: US results for week ending 12 January

1/18/2013 8:20:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was down 4.2% to 49.8%; ADR rose 2.1% to $105.30; and RevPAR decreased 2.2% to $52.43.

10 major hurdles facing India’s hotel sector

1/18/2013 7:09:00 AM

For every opportunity exists a challenge in this burgeoning hotel industry, according to speakers and panelists during the Hotel Investment Forum India.

5 things to know: 17 January 2013

1/17/2013 10:08:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Host sells Atlanta Marriott Marquis for $293m
• Aqua Hotels becomes Aqua Hospitality, creates 3 brands
• Kirk A. Rose named president of Marcus Hotels
• US initial unemployment claims fall
• Study: Mobile travel consumers convert at higher rates

Owners face management contract limitations

1/17/2013 9:49:00 AM

Provisions within management contracts should clearly reflect the rights and obligations of each party.

Brands optimistic on India despite concerns

1/17/2013 9:44:00 AM

Brand executives are keen to expand their footprints in emergent India, according to sources at the Hotel Investment Forum India.

STR: Miami hotels top weekly increases

1/17/2013 9:34:00 AM

Miami’s ADR rose 22.1% to $223.78; its RevPAR was up 26.7% to $182.23; and its occupancy increased 3.7% to 81.4%.

Supply stunts performance in India

1/17/2013 9:30:00 AM

An influx of supply is thwarting demand growth in the emerging market, according to sources at the Hotel Investment Forum India.

Canada results for week ending 12 January

1/17/2013 9:19:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy fell 6.3% to 45.3%; ADR rose 0.3% to CA$120.05; and RevPAR decreased 6% to CA$54.41.

Infographic: Global hotel supply pipeline

1/17/2013 8:40:00 AM

A regional snapshot of hotels opened in 2012 and expected openings in 2013.

Laurus positioning for another busy deals year

1/17/2013 8:25:00 AM

The real estate investment and development company has five properties under contract for purchase and is speeding its transactions activity.

Kirk A. Rose named president of Marcus Hotels

1/17/2013 8:15:00 AM

The Marcus Corporation announced Thursday the appointment of Kirk A. Rose as president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts.

Host sells Atlanta Marriott Marquis for $293m

1/17/2013 7:44:00 AM

The proceeds will be used to fund future acquisitions, pay down debt or for general corporate purposes.

Aqua Hotels changes name, creates 3 brands

1/16/2013 1:15:00 PM

Aqua Hotels and Resorts reported Wednesday it has changed its name to Aqua Hospitality and announced the restructuring of its 24-property group into three distinctive brands.

5 things to know: 16 January 2013

1/16/2013 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• JLL: Global commercial real estate investment $436b in 2012
• Geolo-led group to convert Miami apartments to boutique hotel
• U.S. meeting industry recovers from 2008 setbacks
• Japan consumer confidence down in December
• Study: Asia/Pac travelers top social media usage

A hotel’s name important for SEO, marketing

1/16/2013 9:54:00 AM

The best way to capitalize on marketing efforts is for hoteliers to develop a two-pronged approach: gaining market share by adding location in the hotel’s name and growing online search dominance with savvy SEO practices.

Singapore’s strong ADR prompts mid-tier growth

1/16/2013 9:37:00 AM

Healthy gains in ADR have made development of mid-tier assets financially feasible in the heavily-zoned city-state.

Singapore’s Park Hotel Group delivers love

1/16/2013 8:42:00 AM

Keeping with its philosophy to deliver harmony and love through customer interactions, Park Hotel Group is actively seeking expansion opportunities throughout the Asia/Pacific region.

Positive 2013 demand forecast for London

1/16/2013 8:26:00 AM

Supply in London is projected to increase by 3.5%, while demand will grow by 2.9%.

HELP conference announces speakers

1/16/2013 8:16:00 AM

Officials of the Hotel Equity & Lender Perspectives (HELP) Conference set for April 8-9 at the Seaport Boston Hotel announced key topics and speakers for the two-day event.

$12.5 billion in US hotel transactions in 2012

1/16/2013 7:14:00 AM

While hotel industry fundamentals continued to improve in 2012, investment activity dropped compared with the $19.4 billion in asset trades that occurred in 2011.

Transforming into a leadership role

1/16/2013 7:04:00 AM

Often, people are thrust into the leadership role unprepared. However, by following the footsteps of industry mentors, being a leader doesn’t have to seem daunting.

5 things to know: 15 January 2013

1/15/2013 9:33:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Host still pursuing other defendants in fraud case
• TravelClick: Group demand on the rise
• Mixed year ahead for UK hotels
• STR, STR Global release 2012 year-end global pipeline data
• Location reigns as primary factor for hotel choice

Global payments require flexibility

1/15/2013 9:04:00 AM

To capture global demand, hoteliers need to understand payment trends and adapt to meet customers’ needs, according to sources.

Varying criteria complicates green rankings

1/15/2013 8:57:00 AM

Sustainability rankings are still in their infancy, but as more companies disclose information uniformly, standardization in scoring methodology will evolve.

STR Global issues C./S. America pipeline data

1/15/2013 8:49:00 AM

The Central/South American hotel development pipeline comprises 232 hotels totaling 35,686 rooms, according to the December 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

1/15/2013 7:52:00 AM

Mixed hotel performance could not slow a slew of new openings in this month’s roundup of hotel news from Europe.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico adds 2,670 rooms in 2012

1/15/2013 7:48:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 120 hotels totaling 18,457 rooms, according to the December 2012 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Western hoteliers cater to Muslim travelers

1/15/2013 7:10:00 AM

Several Western hotel companies are introducing new hotel amenities and services to attract the rapidly growing Muslim traveler market.

Centara bets on Asia’s budget boom

1/15/2013 6:59:00 AM

The high-end hotel operator is entering the budget sector with COSI Hotels, a new brand targeted at Southeast Asia’s burgeoning middle class.

5 things to know: 14 January 2013

1/14/2013 9:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Koger, Host lawsuit settled
• OTAs ordered to pay Hawaii $146m in back taxes
• Former Jameson Inns join Wyndham, Choice families
• Survey: Minority influences majority in online reviews
• Cobblestone announces 2012 growth results

Key lessons for future hoteliers

1/14/2013 9:16:00 AM

The "fade" and the "Picasso principle" are among a number of important lessons for veteran and aspiring hotel salespeople alike.

Kempinski plans push to double portfolio size

1/14/2013 9:12:00 AM

The company has nine properties under development in places including China, India, Europe and Africa.

Proposed theme parks spark Dubai development

1/14/2013 9:00:00 AM

A $3-billion, five-project theme-park development in the emirate could spark as many as 100 new hotel projects to satisfy projected demand.

STR Global: Asia/Pac adds 82,476 rooms in 2012

1/14/2013 8:55:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,767 hotels totaling 385,113 rooms, according to the December 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Global growth often hinges on infrastructure

1/14/2013 8:33:00 AM

Emerging markets globally are improving roads and railways as hotel development executives look to boost their presence in the regions.

STR Global: MEA adds 15,735 rooms in 2012

1/14/2013 8:18:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 478 hotels totaling 119,233 rooms, according to the December 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe adds 41,982 rooms in 2012

1/14/2013 8:14:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 844 hotels totaling 141,273 rooms, according to the December 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Louvre ups ante for global expansion in 2013

1/14/2013 8:06:00 AM

The Paris-based company opened 70 hotels during 2012 and is on its way to becoming a global owner/operator.

Digital check-in enhances guest satisfaction

1/11/2013 9:29:00 AM

Some hotel brands have identified the digital check-in process as a way to increase guest satisfaction, but some challenges exist during implementation.

5 things to know: 11 January 2013

1/11/2013 9:21:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: Preliminary December data shows strong gains
• China Lodging releases preliminary Q4 results
• AmEx laying off 5,400 jobs as digital bookings grow
• CBRE offers analysis on historical transaction trends
• November’s on-time airline rates released

STR reports 43,865 new rooms in the US in 2012

1/11/2013 9:11:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry is expecting 817 new properties with 87,301 rooms to open during 2013.

STR reports 4,324 new rooms in Canada in 2012

1/11/2013 8:55:00 AM

There are 55 properties with 5,684 rooms expected to open during 2013.

STR: US results for week ending 5 January

1/11/2013 8:29:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 7.6% to 45%; ADR rose 15.7% to $111.04; and RevPAR increased 24.4% to $49.93.

6 social intelligence trends for hoteliers

1/11/2013 7:51:00 AM

What can hoteliers learn from Starbucks? When it comes to social media, quite a lot.

Capital stack changes impact property values

1/11/2013 7:31:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry has potential for epic appreciation and is poised to increase ADR above inflationary levels.

Technology Pulse: A roundup of digital news

1/10/2013 11:51:00 AM

This month's roundup of news from the technology sector provides updates on different types of hotel demand drivers such as search engines, metasearch and daily deals sites.

Analyzing the OTAs

1/10/2013 11:43:00 AM

Travel research analyst Brian Mullan provided an update of where the top OTAs stand and how their near-term strategies will directly affect the hotel industry.

The alchemy of disruption

1/10/2013 10:46:00 AM

The merge of travel and technology has created a perfect storm stemming from an accelerating culture of star-tup entrepreneurship and a new consumer/user reality.

Do airline sites fit in the distribution mix?

1/10/2013 10:24:00 AM

As airline websites look to grow their hotel offerings and bookings, the next logical question for hoteliers becomes how to effectively manage yet another third-party distribution channel.

5 things to know: 10 January 2013

1/10/2013 9:52:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• New York’s strong weekly gains lead US
• Development opportunities abound in Russia
• EU unemployment hits record
• A breakdown of resort fees in Las Vegas
• Tisch discusses Loews expansion plans

New York hotels top weekly increases

1/10/2013 9:49:00 AM

New York's ADR rose 39.7% to $264.51; its RevPAR jumped 66.8% to $207.22; and its occupancy increased 19.4% to 78.3%.

Canada results for week ending 5 January

1/10/2013 9:39:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 3.9% to 38.5%; ADR was up 9.5% to CA$127.35; and RevPAR increased 13.8% to CA$49.05.

East Asia tourism boosts Philippines market

1/10/2013 9:01:00 AM

Visitors from countries including China, Japan and South Korea are boosting performance of hotels in Manila as well as sparking development initiatives.

Tips for negotiating management contracts

1/10/2013 7:58:00 AM

Hotel management agreements should balance the rights of both owners and operators.

Russia ripe for hotel development

1/10/2013 7:40:00 AM

Russia boasts 13 cities with more than 1 million residents, although leveraging so much untapped demand is easier said than done, according to sources.

AmEx forecast outlines global meeting trends

1/10/2013 7:24:00 AM

The American Express Meetings & Events “2013 Meetings Forecast” outlines four distinct global meeting planning trends to watch for in the year ahead.

JLLH: Global deal volume to hit $32b in 2013

1/9/2013 10:36:00 AM

As the investment landscape continues to transform, buyer groups will remain interested in acquiring assets, according to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels.

5 things to know: 9 January 2013

1/9/2013 9:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• JLLH: Global deal volume to reach $32b in 2013
• TravelClick: Hotels plan to boost staff, CapEx
• Aimbridge scores 103 new management contracts
• Orient-Express launches ‘associate hotels’ program
• Experts talk risks, rewards of mixed-use development

Aimbridge secures management of 103 hotels

1/9/2013 9:13:00 AM

Aimbridge Hospitality has added 103 hotels, formerly known as Jameson Inns, located in 12 states in the Southeastern United States.

Hotel Investors Gauge Q4 results

1/9/2013 9:06:00 AM

Most underwriting parameters for buyers and developers were relatively unchanged based on participants’ responses to the most recent Hotel Investors Gauge.

Brands introduce multicultural marketing plans

1/9/2013 8:42:00 AM

Many hotel brands are realizing high rates of return on marketing campaigns that target emerging customer segments.

Details on Meliá, Greenland deal materialize

1/9/2013 7:59:00 AM

Executives shared more details about the management swap agreement between the Spanish owner/operator and nascent Chinese hotel company.

Big risks, rewards in mixed-use development

1/9/2013 7:38:00 AM

Obstacles exist amid mixed-use development, but sources say the rewards can be well worth the risks.

Improving U.S. economy leads to growth

1/9/2013 7:19:00 AM

Stagnant supply coupled with increases in overall room demand resulted in improved industry-wide occupancy levels.

Distressed deals still abound despite recovery

1/9/2013 7:02:00 AM

Though metrics are up and fundamentals have returned, there still exists a large pool of distressed inventory that’s ripe for the picking. And more inventory is on the way.

Developers overcome hotel space limitations

1/8/2013 4:03:00 PM

With the financing market still recovering, developers are working with smaller footprints to get their projects up and running.

Lack of skilled labor still plagues India

1/8/2013 2:35:00 PM

Development in the country’s booming hotel industry is outpacing training of the skilled workforce required to operate it.

Supply increases dampen outlook in Berlin

1/8/2013 1:02:00 PM

A continually high supply pipeline coupled with ongoing delays in opening a new airport are applying downward pressure to hoteliers in this German city.

5 things to know: 8 January 2013

1/8/2013 8:11:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Bain Capital invests in AMResorts
• Berlin hotel outlook relatively bleak
• Indonesian visitor arrivals lead to hotel boosts
• Dubai metrics show improvement
• Australia’s hotel industry recovering

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

1/8/2013 7:29:00 AM

Included in this news roundup: The MEA region saw mixed hotel performance results during November; Dubai’s hotel boom hides its challenges; and a compilation of development news.

Fiscal cliff deal extends key provisions

1/4/2013 10:01:00 AM

The American Taxpayer Relief Act, which was passed to avert the fiscal cliff, extends key hotelier benefits including the Work Opportunity Tax Credit and bonus depreciation.

5 things to know: 4 January 2013

1/4/2013 9:15:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Spain’s Paradores reduces layoffs in union deal
• US, Canada performance down during holiday week
• Google agrees to minor concessions in antitrust case
• US unemployment rate 7.8% in December
• Travelodge lists strange left-behind items

A GM’s path: Personality, planning, patience

1/4/2013 9:01:00 AM

Anthony Worrall’s journey to become a well-rounded hotelier led him on plenty of adventures and eventually to a fantastic job at a London Crowne Plaza.

The key to quell the ire of displaced guests

1/4/2013 8:44:00 AM

Victims from Superstorm Sandy are being displaced from their hotels, as operators struggle to accommodate reservations already on the books.

Canada results for week ending 29 December

1/4/2013 8:37:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy fell 14.4% to 36.9%; ADR was down 2.8% to CA$126.76; and RevPAR decreased 16.8% to CA$46.73.

Spain’s Paradores reaches union deal

1/4/2013 8:28:00 AM

After tense negotiations, management at the government-run chain agreed to reduce the proposed 644 staff layoffs as well as close just one of 94 properties.

STR: US results for week ending 29 December

1/4/2013 8:18:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was down 7.2% to 45.4%; ADR fell 1.6% to $106.57; and RevPAR decreased 8.7% to $48.34.

Operators discuss top concerns for 2013

1/4/2013 7:18:00 AM

HotelNewsNow.com asked hotel operators about the biggest challenges and opportunities they will face in 2013.

Targeting hotel guests for long-term loyalty

1/4/2013 7:07:00 AM

To cultivate long-term loyalty, hoteliers need to establish a connection, build rapport and tailor offerings with their ideal guests in mind.

5 things to know: 3 January 2013

1/3/2013 8:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Maldives hoteliers hold rates amid instability
• Russia sets rate ceiling for Sochi Games
• NYC draws record 52 million visitors in 2012
• Caesars to convert Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon
• US construction spending declines in November

Google algorithm updates affect search

1/3/2013 7:35:00 AM

Google’s Panda and Penguin algorithms help the end user find good information that matches their needs.

Maldives hoteliers ride out demand drops

1/3/2013 7:23:00 AM

Despite reports of political instability that led to decreases in occupancy, hoteliers in the Maldives managed to increase ADR, which speaks to the country’s potential, sources report.

Owners: 2013 challenges outweigh opportunity

1/3/2013 7:09:00 AM

A recurring theme among hotel owners is the increasing cost of distribution and how hoteliers ensure all channels are delivering enough demand to compensate for increased costs.

Running a hotel requires a meticulous eye

1/3/2013 7:06:00 AM

Associates left no stones unturned during a recent operations meeting I attended at the Hilton Columbus Downtown.

Fiscal cliff: Are we in the clear now?

1/2/2013 10:00:00 AM

Now that U.S. lawmakers have averted an economic disaster by approving a tax deal, the hotel industry outlook is coming up roses, right? My guess is it’s not that simple.

5 things to know: 2 January 2013

1/2/2013 9:24:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• US fiscal cliff averted
• Home Inns appoints new co-chairman
• World Bank’s hotel investments called into question
• Canada market sluggish despite strong economy
• Brand executives share 2013 projections

HotelNewsNow.com extends deadline for RFPs

1/2/2013 9:17:00 AM

HotelNewsNow.com, a leading digital platform that serves the global hotel industry, has extended the deadline for requests for proposals for planned audience development and branding/design initiatives.

4 steps to handling customer complaints

1/2/2013 7:47:00 AM

Taking the appropriate action can only be done after hearing a customer’s problem, understanding their feelings and combining it with a sincere apology.

Brand executives chart 2013’s top challenges

1/2/2013 7:25:00 AM

Brand executives highlighted the top challenges and opportunities for the year ahead.

Adaptive reuse an alternative route to sale

1/2/2013 7:20:00 AM

Marketing an underperforming hotel as an adaptive reuse candidate for another real estate sector is one way to attract investor interest.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

1/2/2013 7:08:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Centara Hotels & Resorts launches a new brand; Asia/Pacific hotel investment is expected to rise over the next six months; and India-based DLF agrees to sell Amanresorts International.

Despite strong economy, Canada market sluggish

1/2/2013 6:54:00 AM

Although Canada's economy is strong, sources point to the lack of global demand growth for the country's lagging hotel market.

5 things to know: 31 December 2012

12/31/2012 8:38:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott’s Sorenson sounds off on fiscal cliff
• Supply sees sagging metrics in Abu Dhabi
• STR releases strong US weekly hotel results
• Wynn might pitch casino-hotel plans in Boston
• Second New York City Hotel Week to kick off

STR: US results for week ending 22 December

12/31/2012 8:27:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 16.2% to 43.2%; ADR rose 3.7% to $93.04; and RevPAR increased 20.5% to $40.22.

Canada results for week ending 22 December

12/31/2012 8:22:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 20.8% to 37.8%; ADR was up 0.4% to CA$114.43; and RevPAR increased 21.2% to CA$43.26.

Legal decisions regarding rate parity far off

12/31/2012 7:51:00 AM

A handful of investigations and lawsuits exploring the issue of rate parity will continue into 2013 and one lawyer suggests suppliers and third parties will find an alternative model.

5 things to know: 28 December 2012

12/28/2012 9:23:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Big brands discuss social media strategies
• GSA to form Travel Advisory Committee
• Survey: NYC hotels raise rates 189% for New Year’s Eve
• Diverted by the Arab Spring, tourists look to India
• Monty Bennett replaces father as Ashford chairman

Top hotel brands share social media tactics

12/28/2012 7:47:00 AM

Executives from Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Best Western International shared the strategies that helped them dominate the social media landscape in 2012.

5 things to know: 27 December 2012

12/27/2012 9:12:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Analysts assign grades for 2012 transactions
• Starwood Hotels expects to open 71 hotels in 2012
• India hotels negotiating rates with consumers online
• Winter storm grounds hundreds of US flights
• US initial unemployment claims fall

Analysts grade 2012 hotel deals

12/27/2012 8:57:00 AM

HotelNewsNow.com reached out to several analysts for their evaluation of some of the most notable global hotel transactions of 2012.

5 things to know: 26 December 2012

12/26/2012 8:45:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• US hotels pushed forward in 2012 despite challenges
• Tata group’s Ratan Tata to retire on 28 December
• London hotels see profit per room drop in November
• Hotel supply in Indonesia expected to triple in 2013
• Obama returning to Washington as fiscal cliff approaches

‘Unexpected strength’ marks 2012 performance

12/26/2012 7:59:00 AM

Despite persisting negative headlines, the U.S. hotel industry continued to post strong and steady increases in performance during 2012.

Starwood opens 71 hotels during 2012

12/26/2012 7:22:00 AM

Connecticut-based Starwood Hotels & Resorts expands footprint with signings in mature and developing markets.

Pinnacle adds markets in $2.8b deal

12/21/2012 10:59:00 AM

Pinnacle Entertainment’s CEO said its acquisition of Ameristar allows it to be less dependent on existing markets in the gaming company’s portfolio.

A positive look at Hilton’s changes at the top

12/21/2012 10:11:00 AM

Jim Holthouser and Jeff Diskin, two long-time Hilton employees, got promotions that landed them on the company’s executive committee. Filling the void created as Paul Brown decides to find other challenges.

5 things to know: 21 December 2012

12/21/2012 10:05:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Pinnacle to buy Ameristar Casinos for $2.8b
• MCR acquires 10 Marriott, Hilton hotels in Maryland
• STR, STR Global release November global hotel results
• US consumer spending up in November
• JLLH: Buy intentions for upscale hotels strong in Europe

STR Global: Americas results for November

12/21/2012 9:59:00 AM

The Americas region ended the month with a 1.8% increase in occupancy to 57%; a 3.6% gain in ADR to $106.97; and a 5.4% increase in RevPAR to $60.99.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for November

12/21/2012 9:26:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the Asia/Pacific region’s occupancy ended the month with a 1.1% decrease to 72.1%; its ADR rose 2.5% to $132.25; and its RevPAR was up 1.4% to $95.34.

Bloss: ABVI members’ sensibility fuels growth

12/21/2012 9:08:00 AM

Americas Best Value Inn’s annual conference produced more brand-improvement guidelines voted in by members as the chain looks to increase rate, renovate properties and place more focus on social media during 2013.

STR Global: MEA results for November

12/21/2012 8:50:00 AM

Three markets experienced double-digit RevPAR increases: Cairo (+38.4% to $59.20); Riyadh (+32.5% to $177.58); and Doha (+15% to $167.45).

STR Global: Europe results for November

12/21/2012 8:32:00 AM

Reykjavik jumped 41.8% in RevPAR to €41.59, achieving the largest increase in that metric, followed by Dublin (+16.2% to €61.76), and Istanbul (+15% to €104.21).

Hoteliers pad their pockets for world’s end

12/21/2012 7:12:00 AM

Hoteliers are cashing in on the fervor surrounding a Mayan prophecy that calls for the end of the world.

STR: US results for week ending 15 December

12/21/2012 7:08:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 5.4% to 51.5%; ADR rose 6.5% to $101.68; and RevPAR increased 12.3% to $52.36.

STR: US hotel performance for November

12/21/2012 7:01:00 AM

Overall, the U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 1.8% to 56.5%; its ADR was up 3.5% to $104.63; and its RevPAR increased 5.4% to $59.10.

5 things to know: 20 December 2012

12/20/2012 10:19:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• PKF: Uncertainty clouds 2013 US hotel outlook
• Pegasus: Hotel results mixed in Q3
• STR releases weekly US, Canada numbers
• US initial unemployment claims rise
• Expedia: Mobile bookings spike on New Year’s Eve

ABF aims to get Jameson Inn back in business

12/20/2012 8:42:00 AM

America’s Best Franchising is trying to resurrect the beleaguered Jameson Inn brand by introducing it to a franchising model and growing the portfolio across the globe.

Canada results for week ending 15 December

12/20/2012 8:36:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 5.6% to 52.4%; ADR was up 2.6% to CA$121.65; and RevPAR increased 8.3% to CA$63.70.

Atlanta tops weekly hotel increases

12/20/2012 8:30:00 AM

The market’s occupancy jumped 18% to 57.5%; its ADR was up 23.3% to $95.98; and its RevPAR increased 45.5% to $55.16.

After asset sales, Kerzner poised for growth

12/20/2012 8:10:00 AM

With a new management team in place, Kerzner International will push forward with expansion, hoping to announce a third Atlantis resort in the first quarter of 2013.

Midscale hotels top US November increases

12/20/2012 8:08:00 AM

The segment posted the largest increases in occupancy and RevPAR for the month, according to STR data.

5 key privacy questions for hotel operators

12/20/2012 7:18:00 AM

As various technologies make it easier to collect, share, analyze and use consumer data, companies need to balance the desire to process the data with consumers’ privacy interests.

HIL: US hotel outlook strengthening

12/20/2012 7:12:00 AM

Future business activity in U.S. hotels rose in November, according to the latest reading of e-forecasting.com’s Hotel Industry Leading indicator, or HIL.

5 things to know: 19 December 2012

12/19/2012 10:05:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• India’s DLF agrees to sell Amanresorts International
• Fitch: Hotel industry to remain stable in 2013
• Industry takes varying approaches to door lock security
• Many travelers still hesitant to book on mobile devices
• Survey: Fiscal cliff not a deterrent to US holiday travel

Hotel developers eye high-speed rail hubs

12/19/2012 9:54:00 AM

Hotel developers are keeping a close eye on high-speed rail development, as the potential hubs could draw travelers to urban city cores and outlying suburban areas.

Door lock security fixes run the gamut

12/19/2012 9:31:00 AM

After an independent security researcher detailed a technique for opening locked hotel room doors without a keycard, hoteliers are taking varying approaches to ensure their guests are safe.

16 hotel pricing, demand trends for 2013

12/19/2012 8:27:00 AM

A panel of marketers and revenue managers highlighted the top trends in pricing, distribution and mobile that will impact the hotel industry during 2013.

Enhancing customer value requires innovation

12/19/2012 7:30:00 AM

The goal of the innovation effort is to find new and better ways of creating more value for guests.

Live blog: On property at Hilton Columbus

12/18/2012 9:25:00 AM

For a look behind the scenes of operating a convention hotel, follow HotelNewsNow.com’s Stephanie Wharton's live blog as she shadows the hotel's GM.

5 things to know: 18 December 2012

12/18/2012 9:25:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Deloitte: Optimism for travel and hospitality industries in 2013
• Whitbread announces sale, leaseback of 7 Premiere Inn hotels
• Luxury brands bypass London for Paris
• AAA: Number of US holiday travelers expected to grow
• Louvre has 16-hotel pipeline for France

London lags Paris in ultra-luxury development

12/18/2012 9:16:00 AM

A shortage of suitable sites in London for luxury development has prompted some prominent international brands to make their European debuts in Paris instead.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

12/18/2012 8:09:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: Preliminary data shows strong 2012 in U.S.; the South American condo-hotel market returns; and several brands are aggressive in Latin America.

Opt out may lead to drip pricing

12/18/2012 7:16:00 AM

As hotels consider opt-out alternatives, hoteliers need to be careful not to commoditize the hospitality industry into something similar to the airline industry.

HSMAI's Chief Digital Officer Roundtable

12/17/2012 11:36:00 AM

Prior to HSMAI’s inaugural Chief Digital Officer Executive Roundtable last week, executives shared concerns over increasing costs that are associated with emerging distribution channels.

HIP: US hotel business activity up in November

12/17/2012 10:17:00 AM

The composite indicator, which gauges monthly overall business conditions in the U.S. hotel industry, rose to a reading of 104.4 in November, following a flat performance in October.

5 things to know: 17 December 2012

12/17/2012 9:55:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IATA forecasts travel distribution to transform by 2017
• HIP: US hotel activity rises slightly in November
• Scandinavian operators pull rooms from Expedia
• US hotel executives’ optimism levels decline
• Baird maintains optimism for Manhattan hotels in 2013

Emerging channels spark fear of rising costs

12/17/2012 9:37:00 AM

Much about how Google, Facebook, Apple and Amazon will operate is unknown, so hoteliers speaking prior to HSMAI’s inaugural Chief Digital Officer Executive Roundtable tended to fear the worst.

Hotels can supplement brand marketing efforts

12/17/2012 9:28:00 AM

Paid marketing efforts like SEO, SEM, email and display advertising should be centralized by the brand and supplemented at the hotel level, executives said before HSMAI’s Chief Digital Officer Executive Roundtable.

Hotel deals will gain modestly in ‘13

12/17/2012 9:21:00 AM

The continuing wave of CMBS maturities and gradually loosening debt maturities should help push the global hotel transactions market slightly higher next year, but it still won’t come close to the heady days of 2007.

Marriott unique in decision to exclude reviews

12/17/2012 8:53:00 AM

Marriott International is one of a shrinking number of major chains that does not include guest reviews on its brand websites, an executive said before HSMAI’s Chief Digital Officer Executive Roundtable.

Scandinavian operators pull rooms from Expedia

12/17/2012 8:07:00 AM

Several prominent operators in Scandinavia cannot agree to terms with Expedia over concerns of rate parity and commissions.

Pacrim, Crescent outline 2013 digital plans

12/17/2012 7:07:00 AM

<p> Two hotel owner-operators during a recent webinar outlined the digital marketing trends that keep them up at night and how they use those trends to prepare their budgets for 2013.</p>

Ross: RevPAR has a very long way to go

12/17/2012 7:02:00 AM

RevPAR might be up more than 6% on a year-over-year basis, but we’re still a long way from the peak on an inflation-adjusted basis.

5 things to know: 14 December 2012

12/14/2012 10:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Brand.com, OTA channels see largest lift in Q3
• PhoCusWright: OTAs drive more traffic than metasearch sites
• DMOs paramount to a hotel’s success
• Trivago: European hotel prices hit low mark
• US initial unemployment claims fall

NYC GM puts people first

12/14/2012 9:47:00 AM

Zack Zahran, GM of the Helmsley Park Lane Hotel in New York, is a people person—in that he understands the challenges inherent in managing their expectations.

DMOs paramount to a hotel’s success

12/14/2012 9:19:00 AM

Destination marketing organizations provide ample benefits to hoteliers, as both parties have the same goal in mind—to promote the destination and generate demand.

HSMAI facilitates digital marketing discussion

12/14/2012 8:30:00 AM

As hotel digital marketers work to stay on the forefront of technology, HSMAI is introducing a new focus on the digital marketing tract.

Quality workplaces beget quality workers

12/14/2012 8:20:00 AM

An annual list of the top 50 best places to work features only one hotel company, meaning there’s a lot of work to be done to catch up to the Googles of the world.

STR: US results for week ending 8 December

12/14/2012 7:23:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 3.6% to 55.3%; ADR rose 5.4% to $107.64; and RevPAR increased 9.2% to $59.57.

Keeping up with 2013 revenue management trends

12/14/2012 7:10:00 AM

Looking to the year ahead, hoteliers will need to keep their eye on everything from social media, OTAs, search engines and inbound global travel to the U.S.

25th Hunter Hotel Conference to accent finance

12/13/2012 3:13:00 PM

Hunter Hotel Conference organizers said that they expect to see especially strong interest in hotel finance from attendees.

5 things to know: 13 December 2012

12/13/2012 9:58:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• PKF forecasts strong RevPAR growth through 2016
• Meliá, Greenland Group partner to grow globally
• Examining US hotel recovery coast to coast
• HVS: Germany a hot market for hotel investment
• UNWTO: 1 billion tourists have traveled the world in 2012

Canada results for week ending 8 December

12/13/2012 9:37:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 2.2% to 57.8%; ADR was up 2.8% to CA$124.58; and RevPAR increased 5.1% to CA$72.03.

US hotel recovery data differs coast to coast

12/13/2012 9:28:00 AM

A comparison of how the nation’s two coasts are recovering might foreshadow future performance.

Bill Marriott shines in primetime spotlight

12/13/2012 9:06:00 AM

Viewers were treated to a comprehensive look at the Marriott International empire during a special on CNBC that depicted chairman Bill Marriott as a soft-spoken but strong-willed businessman.

PKF releases 2013 forecast

12/13/2012 8:54:00 AM

According to the recently released December edition of Hotel Horizons, RevPAR for U.S. hotels is projected to grow at a compound annual average rate of 7.2% for the next four years.

Lenders look to modify hotel loans

12/13/2012 8:19:00 AM

A desire to keep bad loans off their books and a tidal wave of maturities headed their way are two factors spurring lenders to rework loans with borrowers, sources report.

Miami hotels lead weekly performance

12/13/2012 7:54:00 AM

The market’s ADR rose 44% to $211.34; its RevPAR jumped 64.9% to $183.07; and its occupancy increased 14.5% to 86.6%.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index up 2% in November

12/13/2012 7:19:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index reported a 2% increase in November to 2,328 and is up 14.9% year-to-date 2012.

Emerging development trends in 2013

12/13/2012 7:05:00 AM

Although the pace of recovery has been slow, it has also been steady, and some noteworthy trends are beginning to emerge within Midwestern markets and the broader industry.

5 things to know: 12 December 2012

12/12/2012 9:28:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Price gouging versus price yielding
• Blackstone takes over 13 Eagle Hospitality hotels
• Market Metrix: Service problems hurt the most
• U.S. Travel outlines fiscal cliff effects on travel
• Swiss regulatory board opens price-fixing investigation

Price gouging ambiguities weigh on hoteliers

12/12/2012 8:51:00 AM

During natural disasters and other periods of abnormally high demand, hoteliers must weigh short-term revenue gains against long-term relationships with guests.

Data shows no price gouging during Sandy

12/12/2012 8:42:00 AM

Samples in Times Square and the Jersey Shore show no evidence of price gouging in the days surrounding Superstorm Sandy, according to STR Analytics.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for November

12/12/2012 8:32:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 480 hotels totaling 119,932 rooms, according to the November 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe pipeline for November

12/12/2012 8:29:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 855 hotels totaling 142,020 rooms, according to the November 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pac pipeline for November

12/12/2012 8:25:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,748 hotels totaling 377,036 rooms, according to the November 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

DC hoteliers expect softer inauguration demand

12/12/2012 8:13:00 AM

GMs in the Washington, D.C., market don’t expect to relive the record-setting attendance that coincided with President Obama’s 2009 inauguration.

Boutique trends to look for in 2013

12/12/2012 7:26:00 AM

As the industry heads into 2013, boutique hoteliers will focus on quirkiness, active social spaces, personality-driven design to differentiate themselves from mainstream hotels.

STR Global: India reports YTD decreases

12/12/2012 7:21:00 AM

For the period January-to-October 2012 year to date, India’s hotels on an average saw occupancy fall 0.8% to 57.7%; ADR drop 4% to INR6,117.72; and RevPAR decrease 4.8% to INR3,532.54.

5 things to know: 11 December 2012

12/11/2012 9:42:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases preliminary year-end 2012 data
• STR, STR Global release pipeline data
• Crain’s: Investors souring on Hyatt
• Accor to introduce new brand-based structure
• Last-minute app serves last-minute gift ideas

STR reports US pipeline for November

12/11/2012 9:19:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,586 projects totaling 299,201 rooms, according to the November 2012 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

12/11/2012 8:43:00 AM

A plethora of deals highlights this roundup of hotel news from Europe.

STR Global: C/S America pipeline for November

12/11/2012 8:24:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 230 hotels totaling 35,891 rooms, according to the November 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for November

12/11/2012 8:17:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 122 hotels totaling 18,944 rooms, according to the November 2012 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Adapting to evolving mobile trends is crucial

12/11/2012 7:47:00 AM

With smartphone and tablet usage expected to top PC usage by next year, hoteliers should focus on developing the best mobile experience, according to Expedia executives.

STR releases preliminary year-end 2012 data

12/11/2012 7:32:00 AM

Preliminary 2012 year-end results for the U.S. hotel industry include a 2.3% increase in occupancy to 61.3%; a 4.3% rise in ADR to $106.17; and a 6.6% jump in RevPAR to $65.08.

New to NYC: Developers make Big Apple debuts

12/11/2012 7:06:00 AM

Two Manhattan Cambria Suites locations are being built by hoteliers new to the city, which is projected to experience a record 52 million visitors in 2012.

5 strategies for developing customer service

12/11/2012 6:58:00 AM

Executing outstanding customer service can do more for attracting and retaining customers than any amount of marketing or refurbishing. But it won't happen by magic.

5 things to know: 10 December 2012

12/10/2012 9:29:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• South American condo-hotel developers learn from past
• STR’s Freitag outlines 2013 trends
• Visitation, occupancy rising in Las Vegas
• Thailand’s Centara Hotels launches new brand
• Trepp: More borrowers paying off loans

Paradores downsizes amid Spain’s economic woes

12/10/2012 8:53:00 AM

The state-owned chain of historic hotels is cutting more than 600 jobs and might close several properties in a bid to return to financial health.

Outsourced security requires extra scrutiny

12/10/2012 8:31:00 AM

As outsourcing loss prevention becomes more mainstream, hoteliers need to take the proper precautions to avoid liability and damage to their reputations.

South American condo-hotel market returns

12/10/2012 8:24:00 AM

Experts say developers in the region have learned from mistakes, specifically a glut of construction and unsold units that led to an occupancy crash in Brazil a decade ago.

5 ways to jumpstart group business in 2013

12/10/2012 7:55:00 AM

Successful sales managers customize plans and develop skilled salespeople who can impact all segments regardless of market conditions.

What to watch for in 2013

12/10/2012 7:10:00 AM

With 2012 almost behind us and 2013 coming into focus, here are some of the biggest trends sweeping through the U.S. hotel industry.

Expedia leaders address partners’ top concerns

12/7/2012 9:34:00 AM

Expedia executives tackled the issues concerning their hotel partners the most, including rate parity, Google and guest satisfaction during their Partner Conference.

Group demand slows, but no need for rate woes

12/7/2012 9:20:00 AM

Committed group roomnights might be flat in North America, but TravelClick’s Rao Avasarala said it’s too early for a knee-jerk reaction in revenue management.

5 things to know: 7 December 2012

12/7/2012 9:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Preliminary US November data shows growth
• Trepp: Hotel CMBS delinquency rate increases
• Intangible value sparks appraisal debate
• Sternlicht considers selling stake in Starwood Capital
• US unemployment falls to 7.7%

STR: US results for week ending 1 December

12/7/2012 8:40:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 2.5% to 52.2%; ADR rose 3.5% to $103; and RevPAR increased 6.2% to $53.74.

4 future hotel trends in India

12/7/2012 8:32:00 AM

On the verge of my first-ever trip to India, I turned to HVS to examine some of the top trends impacting this burgeoning market.

SBA loan details for long-term financing

12/7/2012 8:28:00 AM

There are two separate SBA loans: the 7(a) and 504. Each program equips borrowers with loans that best suit their needs.

Intangible brand values spark appraisal debate

12/7/2012 8:05:00 AM

The appraisal community is divided between methods used to calculate the intangible values of hotel brands.

Infographic: Guestroom technology then and now

12/6/2012 12:41:00 PM

Guestroom technology has come a long way in the past decade. This infographic highlights four such advances.

Venture capitalists monitor innovation closely

12/6/2012 10:19:00 AM

Between scoping out potential investment opportunities at PhoCusWright, Thayer Ventures’ Chris Hemmeter described to HotelNewsNow.com the type of innovation and opportunities he’s targeting.

Technology Pulse: A roundup of digital news

12/6/2012 9:50:00 AM

This month's roundup of news from the technology sector has a particular focus on online reviews.

Vantage plots development growth plan

12/6/2012 9:48:00 AM

With more than 1,000 properties in its portfolio, Vantage has revamped its development division as it prepares to grow globally.

Canada results for week ending 1 December

12/6/2012 9:42:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 2.8% to 62.1%; ADR was up 3.2% to CA$127.33; and RevPAR increased 6.1% to CA$79.06.

2013: The year of three-screen hospitality

12/6/2012 9:26:00 AM

All three channels—desktop, mobile and tablet—must be integrated in a hotel’s marketing strategy.

5 things to know: 6 December 2012

12/6/2012 8:45:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• New Orleans rates increase 300% for Super Bowl
• Title insurance emerges in Europe
• STR: US, Canada weekly performance numbers
• US weekly unemployment claims fall
• North American airline on-time performance jumps

Title insurance emerges in Europe

12/6/2012 7:46:00 AM

Before the availability of title insurance in many parts of Europe, the lengthy and costly due diligence process of a hotel transaction kept many potential investors at bay.

Los Angeles hotels lead ADR, RevPAR increases

12/6/2012 7:31:00 AM

The city’s hoteliers reported double-digit gains in ADR and RevPAR for the week ending 1 December, according to STR data.

Look beyond star ratings to decipher reviews

12/6/2012 7:20:00 AM

Buried within online reviews are actionable, operational insights that can help hoteliers deliver a better guest experience.

New AH&LA chair focuses on education

12/6/2012 7:04:00 AM

If there is one thread that weaves its way through Ron Vlasic’s roles as a Kimpton VP and newly appointed chair of the AH&LA, it’s education.

5 things to know: 5 December 2012

12/5/2012 9:42:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Speed of construction comes at expense of quality, budget
• Hersha raises 2012 RevPAR guidance
• US economy sector in two-decade slump, but hope remains
• US foreign visitor spending on record pace
• Travel jobs offer long-term career benefits

Latent demand suggests growth will continue

12/5/2012 8:42:00 AM

Occupied roomnights might appear to be peaking, but the high amount of pent-up demand shows even more growth on the horizon.

Construction pits speed against cost, quality

12/5/2012 8:17:00 AM

There are three things every hotel developer wants during the hotel construction process: to stay within budget, to stay on schedule and to build a quality product. But experts say it’s not possible to have all three.

Economy hotels struggling to bounce back

12/5/2012 8:09:00 AM

The economy segment has yet to recover from its late-1980s heyday. But ambitious brand refreshes and billions of dollars worth of investment could breathe new life into the segment.

London rules; UK regions hope to follow

12/5/2012 7:44:00 AM

Most hoteliers don’t have issues with London’s continued growth in supply, but bolstering performance in other areas of the country remains a concern.

Budget season may lead to management changes

12/5/2012 7:03:00 AM

As owners and operators work through the budgeting process, they need to evaluate whether their strategies are working in optimizing resources.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

12/4/2012 8:43:00 AM

In this roundup of news from the region: MEA countries report positive monthly hotel performance; Ras Al-Khaimah is an up-and-coming emirate; and developers plan to spend on hotel projects in Gulf Coast Countries.

5 things to know: 4 December 2012

12/4/2012 8:35:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• First Mexican hotel REIT goes public
• Inn at Opryland newest Gaylord Hotel
• JLL: Middle East investors seeking stable real estate returns
• Luxury Collection investing $200m in European hotels
• Romney back on Marriott board

TripAdvisor CEO pushes hotelier participation

12/4/2012 8:27:00 AM

In a Q-and-A interview, TripAdvisor CEO Stephen Kaufer addresses a number of key issues affecting hotels and online reviews.

First Mexican hotel-focused REIT emerges

12/4/2012 7:48:00 AM

FIBRA Hotelera Mexicana went public Friday on the Mexican Stock Exchange, selling 194.4 million shares at $1.39 per share for a total of about $277.7 million.

Spotlight on Levant hotel performance

12/4/2012 7:16:00 AM

Ongoing political strife in the Levant region could impact hotel performance in affected cities—as well as that in neighboring countries.

Arab autumn shifts hotel performances

12/4/2012 7:00:00 AM

Several countries that saw political uprisings early in 2011 are now reporting increases in hotel industry performance. But the region as a whole is not in the clear just yet.

5 things to know: 3 December 2012

12/3/2012 9:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Spanish hoteliers pessimistic about winter performance
• PwC: Manhattan ADR growth ‘stagnated’ in Q3
• Hoteliers backing off cancellation, no-show policies
• Study: Friends, family most likely to inspire travel
• Host JV acquires 5 European hotels for €440m

Cancellation, no-show policies protect revenue

12/3/2012 8:41:00 AM

Cancellation and no-show fees helped offset declines in RevPAR. But now hoteliers are becoming more lax with these policies to boost guest satisfaction.

Spanish hoteliers predict bleak winter

12/3/2012 7:26:00 AM

Economic ills and government austerity measures will weigh heavily on hotel performance during the October-to-January period, according to a survey of hoteliers in Spain.

A breakdown of hospitality property taxes

12/3/2012 7:08:00 AM

The process of choosing a property tax consultant should entail as much savvy as the process of acquiring the asset itself.

Kessler recycling proceeds into development

12/3/2012 7:03:00 AM

Boutique hotel chain The Kessler Collection will develop at least half a dozen U.S. hotels with the expected proceeds from its sale of hotels to Inland American Real Estate Trust.

5 things to know: 30 November 2012

11/30/2012 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Blackstone will buy Apple REIT Six for $1.2 billion
• Jury still out on FTC ‘resort fee’ compliance
• TravelClick illustrates demand’s effect on rate
• R.A. Rauch & Associates outlines 10 trends for 2013
• Series of guestroom thefts in Texas linked to lock vulnerability

Jury still out on FTC ‘resort fee’ compliance

11/30/2012 9:56:00 AM

Hoteliers were reluctant to say whether they will comply, and the AH&LA’s Joe McInerney passed partial blame to third-party room distributors for not informing guests.

STR: US results for week ending 24 November

11/30/2012 9:48:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 5.2% to 47.2%; ADR rose 5.9% to $96.06; and RevPAR increased 11.4% to $45.36.

TravelClick highlights demand’s effect on rate

11/30/2012 8:35:00 AM

Demand growth is expected to decline in 2013, however, TravelClick executives said there still opportunity to drive rate.

A bed tax plan that works

11/30/2012 8:26:00 AM

Columbus, Ohio, will reallocate funds from the city’s bed tax directly toward funding to support travel and tourism. Hopefully other municipalities follow suit.

Precocious planner fulfills career dream as GM

11/30/2012 8:13:00 AM

Kate Martin hasn’t looked back since her first hotel gig at the age of 15. Now GM of the Hotel Chandler in New York, there’s nowhere else this self-proclaimed planner would rather be.

Sustainable new builds attract investors

11/30/2012 8:00:00 AM

In a risky financing environment, one way to stand out to lenders and investors is by developing a sustainable property, according to Marriott executives.

Agency model spurs concern over brand fees

11/29/2012 10:00:00 AM

At the heart of the issue is whether franchisors and brand managers should be collecting fees for demand they did not generate but instead was generated by third parties.

Canada results for week ending 24 November

11/29/2012 9:57:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 1.4% to 59.4%; ADR was up 2.4% to CA$126.02; and RevPAR increased 3.9% to CA$74.89.

5 things to know: 29 November 2012

11/29/2012 9:36:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Agency model spurs concern over brand fees
• Survey: Most travelers won’t book hotels without reviews
• Borrowers turn to EB-5 to help fill in financing holes
• JLLH: Dubai economy rebounds with accelerating GDP growth
• Priceline.com data shows popularity of last-minute mobile bookings

EB-5 a growing source of capital for hotels

11/29/2012 9:21:00 AM

With the U.S. credit market still trying to regain its footing, some investors are turning to the federal EB-5 visa program to help fill in financing gaps in hotel development projects.

Myanmar hotel potential outweighs challenges

11/29/2012 8:55:00 AM

As sanctions loosen in Myanmar, international travelers are visiting the country for the first time, and investors are rushing to develop hotels in the undersupplied country.

New York leads weekly US hotel increases

11/29/2012 8:52:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 15.6% to 86%; its RevPAR was up 23% to $218.25; and its ADR increased 6.3% to $253.68.

Hoteliers should embrace customized marketing

11/29/2012 8:34:00 AM

Hoteliers in the past encouraged brand consistency, but guests today want an individualized approach with customized preferences.

Fickle market keeps deal pace at a trickle

11/29/2012 8:26:00 AM

With the number of hotel deals still muted in Europe, speakers at EHIC discussed the importance of exit strategies and finding alternative debt sources.

Omni on lookout for more hotels

11/28/2012 9:54:00 AM

Texas-based Omni Hotels & Resorts remains diligent in its quest for adding hotels to its portfolio through acquisition and management opportunities, with the goal to double its size, said executive Mike Garcia.

5 things to know: 28 November 2012

11/28/2012 9:31:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Despite economy, Europe tourism trending upward
• Forecast shows rising rates, smaller budgets for meeting planners
• Conference center industry benefits from hotel recovery
• CMBS delinquency rate hits three-year low as banks sell debt
• Sorenson among CEOs at White House to discuss fiscal cliff

5 strategies to help millennials excel

11/28/2012 8:21:00 AM

Millennials are stigmatized as self centered and lazy, but they have skills and a wealth of knowledge that can benefit any business in the long run.

Slim rays of sunshine tease European hoteliers

11/28/2012 7:43:00 AM

Optimism and reality were blended into candid conversations about the status of the European hotel industry during EHIC in London.

5 things to know: 27 November 2012

11/27/2012 9:28:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Website ‘blueprints’ outline best practices online
• 2013 incentive travel outlook not so rosy
• Hotel revenues fall sharply in Scotland
• HVS report outlines labor costs in India
• NYC’s Plaza Hotel gets a new owner

Adaptive reuse re-creates unique opportunities

11/27/2012 9:10:00 AM

While ground-up construction is still proving difficult in the hotel industry, some hoteliers are turning to adaptive-reuse projects to introduce unique supply to the market.

Expedia CEO addresses hotelier concerns

11/27/2012 8:59:00 AM

HotelNewsNow.com recently caught up with Expedia CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, who said commissions paid by hoteliers on OTA bookings are fair.

Finding fluidity with organic marketing

11/27/2012 8:54:00 AM

The marketing plan is no longer a document carved in stone but one that is able to adapt to an ever-changing world.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

11/27/2012 8:48:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Orient-Express rejects buyout offer, names new CEO; Marriott plans to double Asia portfolio by 2016 and the number of Chinese visitors to US increases nearly 120%.

User content highlights hotel website upgrades

11/26/2012 9:30:00 AM

Several hotel companies are seeing an uptick in conversions after adding customer reviews to their websites.

Website personalization drives demand, loyalty

11/26/2012 9:17:00 AM

Sources said hoteliers can steal market share from online competitors by understanding how users choose websites, learning demographics and collecting information to tailor the online experience.

Hotel website blueprints

11/26/2012 9:14:00 AM

Hoteliers and room distributors are overhauling their online presence to steal market share by better understanding today’s travelers and presenting them with the best choices online.

5 things to know: 26 November 2012

11/26/2012 9:08:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Israel cancellations hit 10% to 20% during conflict
• Google activates Hotel Finder globally
• NH appoints new chairman, replaces CEO
• Accor makes headway in Asia/Pacific
• Online sales surges during Black Friday

Canada results week ending 17 November

11/26/2012 8:29:00 AM

Occupancy fell 4.1% to 60%; ADR was up 1.8% to CAD$126.75; and RevPAR decreased 2.4% to CAD$76.09.

Hoteliers’ small ideas ignite big innovations

11/26/2012 8:05:00 AM

Hoteliers fall into the trap of maintaining the status quo. But as innovation becomes a more pervasive practice, brands are implementing big—and small ideas—that are changing the industry.

Employee idea systems spark competitive edge

11/26/2012 7:45:00 AM

By implementing employee idea systems, thousands of small innovative ideas suggested by staff can give hotels a competitive advantage.

Hotel buyers looking for debt post-deal

11/26/2012 7:36:00 AM

In an effort to ease closing and hasten the deal-making process, prospective hotel buyers are buying assets all cash and layering in financing after the transaction has closed.

Profitable US all-inclusive market heats up

11/26/2012 7:28:00 AM

An emerging trend for hoteliers, including some of the major U.S. brands, is to mirror the well-established cruise ship model where “you get on the ship at one price, then they upsell you.”

NH Hoteles names new chairman

11/26/2012 6:32:00 AM

The board of directors of NH Hoteles has appointed Rodrigo Echenique Gordillo as non-executive chair of the company’s highest governing body.

STR: US results week ending 17 November

11/21/2012 12:31:00 PM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 4.6% to 62%; ADR rose 6.4% to $108.63; and RevPAR increased 11.3% to $67.32.

5 things to know: 21 November 2012

11/21/2012 9:58:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hoteliers express concerns over Gaza conflict
• STR Global releases monthly global hotel data
• Cornell study quantifies effect of social media
• JLL: IMF loan to increase confidence in Cairo real estate
• IBM: Companies struggle to incorporate social media

STR Global: Europe results for October

11/21/2012 9:35:00 AM

Three markets achieved RevPAR increases of more than 20%: Tel Aviv (+36.2% to €159.68); Dublin, Ireland (+23.4% to €76.15); and Budapest (+21.7% to €56.60).

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for October

11/21/2012 9:27:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the Asia/Pacific region’s occupancy ended the month virtually flat with a 0.2% decrease to 70.9%; its ADR fell 0.6% to $135.51; and its RevPAR was down 0.8% to $96.08.

STR: US hotel performance for October

11/21/2012 9:16:00 AM

Overall, the U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 2.4% to 64.4%; its ADR was up 4.2% to $109.67; and its RevPAR increased 6.7% to $70.62.

STR Global: MEA results for October

11/21/2012 9:10:00 AM

The region’s occupancy increased 4.6% to 65.5%; its ADR rose 9.4% to $183.97; and its RevPAR grew 14.4% to $120.56.

STR Global: Americas results for October

11/21/2012 9:04:00 AM

The Americas region ended the month with a 2.4% increase in occupancy to 64.3%; a 3.9% gain in ADR to $111.10; and a 6.4% increase in RevPAR to $71.39.

Hoteliers monitor Gaza conflict

11/21/2012 8:46:00 AM

As fighting between Israel and Hamas continues, hoteliers in the region are noticing some cancellations and are monitoring the situation.

NLRB’s decisions impact hotel policies

11/21/2012 8:20:00 AM

The U.S. National Labor Relations Board is scrutinizing common policies, meaning hotel employers must consider the risks associated with maintaining and enforcing them.

Tech startups provide buzz, little substance

11/21/2012 8:17:00 AM

PhoCusWright’s Travel Innovation Summit merges innovators with an entrepreneurial spirit and technologies that could revolutionize the travel industry.

Reibel details building leadership into art

11/21/2012 7:02:00 AM

Jean-Jacques Reibel of the InterContinental Hong Kong isn’t shy about paying attention to details, being a tough manager or sharing his passion for a hotel career.

Ras Al-Khaimah breaks into UAE spotlight

11/21/2012 6:47:00 AM

The up-and-coming emirate is breaking out of the shadows of Dubai and Abu Dhabi thanks to a massive marketing frenzy and a flurry of hotel investment.

5 things to know: 20 November 2012

11/20/2012 10:11:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• KKR bid for NH Hoteles could transform the chain
• HIP: Business activity improves despite weakness
• STR releases US October performance data
• Facebook algorithm change leads to 38% drop in brand reach
• Survey: Half of US adults plan to travel for holiday season

3 strategies to capture flash-sale guests

11/20/2012 10:07:00 AM

Dave Madden, GM of LivingSocial Escapes, said successful operators are focused on capturing value-driven customers and ensuring they return.

US hotels report performance gains in October

11/20/2012 8:41:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry posted increases in the three key performance metrics, including a 6.7% increase in RevPAR, according to STR data.

IT infrastructure demand outpacing investment

11/20/2012 8:27:00 AM

IT professionals say it’s nearly impossible to keep up with the ballooning bandwidth demands of guests.

KKR bid for NH could transform Spanish chain

11/20/2012 8:19:00 AM

NH Hoteles’ shareholders are mulling a proposed investment stake from KKR, which could help the Spanish chain emerge from its troubles.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

11/20/2012 7:30:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: Data firms reveal new 2013 forecasts; several hotel companies update guidance in wake of Sandy; and Harlequin unveils new H brand.

4 tips for effective revenue management

11/20/2012 7:01:00 AM

Revenue managers need to make it a priority to understand their audience and provide relevant, actionable information that they understand.

Outlook improves despite current weakness

11/19/2012 1:47:00 PM

The outlook for the U.S. hotel industry edged upward, according to the Hotel Industry Leading indicator, despite softness measured at present by the Hotel Industry Pulse index.

5 things to know: 19 November 2012

11/19/2012 9:55:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Israel, West Bank hotels suffer from Gaza offensive
• More signs point to negative impact from Sandy
• GBTA: Travel could take $20b hit from fiscal cliff
• AAA: Thanksgiving travel to increase slightly
• Study: Independent UK hotels lack online engagement

Forecasting requires strong historical base

11/19/2012 9:36:00 AM

The best forecasting starts with a strong foundation of historical data, which is then adjusted based on future reservations, pickup and pace, say revenue managers.

Google advances in travel space, albeit slowly

11/19/2012 9:17:00 AM

At last week’s PhoCusWright Conference, Google shed little light on future plans but reiterated its commitment to the space. Critics say products are evolving slower than anticipated.

Small meetings inspire design innovations

11/19/2012 7:32:00 AM

As group demand rebounds with the broader economy, hoteliers are evaluating conference and work spaces to accommodate a growing need for small, casual meetings.

Universal prepares for group uptick

11/19/2012 7:14:00 AM

Universal Orlando Resort, along with its joint-venture partners, is busy prepping its hotels for an expected increase in group and corporate demand in central Florida.

5 things to know: 16 November 2012

11/16/2012 10:01:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Focus shifts as hotel ecommerce landscape evolves
• USA Today: 8 dead in last 3 years from hotel CO poisoning
• STR reports US, Canada weekly data
• European business travelers expect personalized service
• NH Hoteles reports losses in Q3

STR: US results for week ending 10 November

11/16/2012 9:11:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy was up 0.9% to 62.6%; ADR rose 3.1% to $107.91; and RevPAR increased 4.1% to $67.52.

Canada results for week ending 10 November

11/16/2012 9:05:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons, occupancy rose 4.1% to 62.8%; ADR was up 2.6% to CA$126.93; and RevPAR increased 6.8% to CA$79.76.

Priorities, focus shift as ecommerce evolves

11/16/2012 8:49:00 AM

As the hotel ecommerce space evolves, hoteliers and OTAs at the PhoCusWright Conference discussed how they monitor and invest to keep up.

NH Hoteles reports losses during Q3

11/16/2012 8:22:00 AM

The ongoing economic downturn has caused third-quarter demand to contract, especially in the corporate segment.

Business acumen key in revenue management

11/16/2012 7:50:00 AM

With ADR forecasted to lead RevPAR increases in 2013, making the right decisions in the revenue-management space is crucial, according to panelists during an HSMAI webinar Thursday.

Why hoteliers must combat conventional wisdom

11/16/2012 7:40:00 AM

Conventional wisdom is that everyone is using social media. But conventional wisdom is not always correct.

Top 25 markets’ RevPAR recovery inconsistent

11/16/2012 7:09:00 AM

The pace of recovery has been faster than expected in the industry, although it is inconsistent from market to market.

Online travel companies shed light on future

11/15/2012 10:16:00 AM

Heavy hitters in the online travel space discussed how their businesses are adapting to a slowdown in online travel growth at the PhoCusWright Conference.

5 things to know: 15 November 2012

11/15/2012 10:09:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• French consortium acquires 165 B&B Hotels for $644m
• Nasetta, Hennequin bullish on industry’s direction
• PhoCusWright: Online travel leaders shed light on future
• US weekly unemployment claims up 78,000
• Survey: Hotel reviews vital for 53% of users before booking

Continuity key to independent hotel success

11/15/2012 9:27:00 AM

The best experiential hotels tell the best stories, taking guests to a new setting or space and delivering a consistent, unforgettable experience.

Motel 168 sees Q3 performance lift

11/15/2012 9:10:00 AM

Home Inns’ recently acquired Motel 168 brand saw upticks in revenue and occupancy during the third quarter, executives said during the company’s third-quarter earnings call.

Nassetta, Hennequin talk shop in Europe

11/15/2012 7:47:00 AM

Top executives at Hilton and Accor addressed the state of the industry, luxury hotels and the value of owning real estate during a panel discussion Wednesday at the European Hotel Investment Conference.

Home Inns opened 108 hotels in Q3

11/15/2012 7:41:00 AM

Nearly two-thirds of the hotels opened were of the franchised-and-managed model.

Hoteliers review guest safety policies

11/15/2012 7:14:00 AM

As concerns over guestroom security mount, hoteliers need to review their procedures and policies to ensure they’re committed to their guests, experts report.

5 things to know: 14 November 2012

11/14/2012 9:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Data firms release new 2012, 2013 forecasts
• STR Global releases October global pipeline data
• Study: One-third of mobile users plan travel on the go
• JLL: Uncertainty leads to slow growth in 2013
• Americans’ unused vacation time up 48% over 2011

STR Global: Europe pipeline for October

11/14/2012 9:29:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 868 hotels totaling 140,952 rooms, according to the October 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pac pipeline for October

11/14/2012 9:10:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,697 hotels totaling 374,523 rooms, according to the October 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Uncertainty translates to slow 2013 growth

11/14/2012 8:56:00 AM

A bumpy U.S. economic recovery coupled with financial uncertainty is weighing on investor confidence levels, but there are some bright spots going into 2013.

Consolidation expected in UK mid-market

11/14/2012 8:45:00 AM

The region’s fragmented mid-market hotel sector is ripe for consolation, although a lack of financing is hindering progress, experts said.

Data firms reveal new 2013 forecasts

11/14/2012 8:29:00 AM

The revised U.S. hotel industry forecasts are still largely favorable, despite some pullback after a less-than-robust third-quarter earnings season and a slowdown during Superstorm Sandy.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for October

11/14/2012 8:20:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 488 hotels totaling 121,026 rooms, according to the October 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

‘Midnight raids’ take center stage at summit

11/14/2012 7:34:00 AM

Panelists at the inaugural Hotel and Lodging Legal Summit discussed best practices for handling early termination of hotel management agreements.

Implementing sustainable practices in Asia

11/14/2012 7:08:00 AM

As U.S. hotel companies expand into Asia, executives need to assess how they can implement eco-friendly practices in international regions.

5 things to know: 13 November 2012

11/13/2012 10:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• World Travel Market panelists talk best efforts for future returns
• PhoCusWright forecasts 8% industry growth to $303b in 2012
• Hawaii room revenue sets record at $2.45b year to date
• UK hotel prices down 7% over past month, 15% year over year
• Market Metrix: Social media feedback often skewed

Foreign investors show interest in Caribbean

11/13/2012 9:43:00 AM

The improving metrics of the Caribbean hotel industry has drawn interest from international capital sources, according to panelists at CHICOS.

Hoteliers laud new F&B benchmarking tool

11/13/2012 9:40:00 AM

Hoteliers voiced support for the new Food & Beverage STAR Benchmarking Report, which will allow hoteliers for the first time to accurately benchmark F&B revenues against national and local competitive sets.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for October

11/13/2012 9:17:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 124 hotels totaling 19,318 rooms, according to the October 2012 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: C./S. America pipeline for October

11/13/2012 9:14:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 233 hotels totaling 33,396 rooms, according to the October 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for October

11/13/2012 9:09:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,590 projects totaling 290,257 rooms, according to the October 2012 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

Panel outlines investment hurdles, hot spots

11/13/2012 8:57:00 AM

A panel during the World Travel Market discussed the biggest challenges and opportunities facing would-be hotel investors.

Hawaii hotel Q3 'Flash Report'

11/13/2012 8:22:00 AM

Statewide occupancy increased by 4.1% during the first three quarters of the year to 77.8%, while ADR and RevPAR rose 7.8% and 13.8% to $202.90 and $157.86, respectively.

Contract credibility hinders global expansion

11/13/2012 8:07:00 AM

Contracts between partners can vary greatly from country to country, and panelists at the Hotel and Lodging Legal Summit said they are subject to interpretation in many regions.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

11/13/2012 7:20:00 AM

The U.K. rolls out a new pension plan, Copenhagen hotels go green and Fiesta gets a new name in this edition of the latest hotel news from Europe.

5 things to know: 12 November 2012

11/12/2012 9:49:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Execs tackle wide range of ‘challenges’ during IHMRS
• Caribbean economies recover, but pricing power delayed
• TravelClick: Q4 occupancy up 5.2%; ADR up 3.6%
• Pebblebrook revises outlook after Superstorm Sandy
• Brazilian resorts reap benefits of stabilizing economy

Caribbean data points out positive performance

11/12/2012 9:18:00 AM

The Caribbean hotel industry has put the recession behind it and has many opportunities ahead, according to data crunchers who spoke during last week’s CHICOS.

Executives discuss industry’s top challenges

11/12/2012 7:45:00 AM

“Challenges” emerged as the recurring theme during the opening general session of the AH&LA’s Hospitality Leadership Forum.

Mapping Sandy’s impact on US hotel demand

11/12/2012 7:08:00 AM

STR Analytics used a day-to-day comparison to map demand changes for each market tract in the United States.

The black swans have landed

11/12/2012 7:04:00 AM

The U.S. presidential election might be over, but the outlook for 2013 is as cloudy as it’s ever been.

Time renovations to capitalize on upcycle

11/12/2012 6:55:00 AM

Renovations to hotel lobbies, dining areas and guest bathrooms provide the greatest bang for the buck, sources said, but back-of-house spaces are still important.

Hoteliers must match expectations, experience

11/9/2012 9:51:00 AM

Lofty expectations can only help movie box-office receipts. Hoteliers, on the other hand, risk losing long-term demand when reality doesn’t match up with their brand promise.

Red Lion progresses with debt repayment in Q3

11/9/2012 9:49:00 AM

The company made substantial progress during the third quarter in paying down its debt and introducing initiatives that will maximize value for shareholders, executives said Thursday.

Caribbean hotels show signs of growth

11/9/2012 9:37:00 AM

Executives during CHICOS discussed the challenges of investing in the region, including embracing all-inclusive resorts, a need for more airlift and remaining financing issues.