Hotel News Now

5 things to know: 16 May 2012

5/16/2012 9:05:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• US District Court blocks union ‘ambush rule’
• Orient-Express names new interim CEO
• Partnerships crucial for global brands in India
• Marriott’s ‘Courtyard Refreshing Business’ renovations moving along
• Supertel reports higher Q1 RevPAR for upper-midscale hotels

Big brands look to local partners in India

5/16/2012 7:47:00 AM

Developing a hotel in India is becoming ever more complex, and many major hotel chains are turning to the expertise of local partners to help navigate the market.

Courtyard by Marriott lobbies for longevity

5/16/2012 7:34:00 AM

Once considered a “category killer,” Marriott International’s Courtyard by Marriott brand is using a lobby revitalization project to attract new consumers and woo back guests who left.

Experts review shut-door housekeeping policies

5/16/2012 7:27:00 AM

While there are pros and cons to closed-door housekeeping policies, security expert Anthony Roman says without proper crime-data analysis, one cannot determine if the method is truly effective.

2012 is year of renovations in the US

5/16/2012 7:14:00 AM

Three years after the Great Recession and with solid hotel industry fundamentals, FF&E projects in the U.S. this year will revolve around renovations.

Is there room for more growth in China?

5/16/2012 6:56:00 AM

Markets that have managed to time supply growth with their overall economic development have shown positive signals for long-term growth during the past three years.

5 things to know: 15 May 2012

5/15/2012 9:35:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Paramount Pictures jumping into the hotel business
• Meliá Hotels sees Q1 rate, RevPAR growth
• KBW: Solid Q1 for hotel REITs
• Homogenization rules top 94 US markets
• TripAdvisor: More summer leisure travel forecast for 2012

UPDATE: Credit-bid decision expected in June

5/15/2012 9:31:00 AM

The U.S. Supreme Court in 2012 will take up the issue of whether lenders should be able to bid for their own collateral with debt at bankruptcy auctions.

Hyatt Regency ‘Green Team’ steers renovation

5/15/2012 7:33:00 AM

At the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, innovative green efforts helped get departments involved in an accelerated sustainability program in coordination with the property’s $25-million renovation.

Hotels gain star treatment from TV exposure

5/15/2012 7:23:00 AM

For hoteliers looking to gain attention for their properties, being featured on TV shows or in movies is a lucrative platform. If harnessed properly, the publicity can be a boon for hotels.

Top 94 US markets show small distinctions

5/15/2012 7:15:00 AM

The top 94 U.S. markets are more homogenized, making it harder to pick distinct outperformers.

Hoteliers disconnected from shaky reality

5/15/2012 7:09:00 AM

The chasm between the hotel industry optimists and the risks in the world ahead is expanding.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

5/15/2012 6:59:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Vantage forms a partnership to develop in India; Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts expands into China with a new name and logo; and China’s domestic economy chains talk growth strategies.

Meliá Hotels reports 7.2% RevPAR growth in Q1

5/14/2012 3:48:00 PM

RevPAR in the Americas increased 20% based on the U.S. economy and rise of travelers from Latin America.

5 things to know: 14 May 2012

5/14/2012 9:16:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: US active pipeline down 9% in April
• US Travel meets with Congress to discuss government oversight
• Hotels taking steps to curb sex trafficking
• UK boutiques face growing branded competition
• Accor reopening two earthquake-damaged Christchurch hotels

STR reports US hotel pipeline for April

5/14/2012 9:06:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,770 projects totaling 292,806 rooms, according to the April STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

Thwarting the skin trade

5/14/2012 8:25:00 AM

Sex trafficking and human slavery is a growing problem throughout the world. There are measures—including proper training—that a hotel can take to help lessen the chances of it happening on property.

Varying cultural customs impact hotel design

5/14/2012 7:50:00 AM

When sensitive cultural issues present themselves in the design process, hoteliers must adapt their plans to transform constraints into opportunities.

Brands don’t scare boutiques in shaky economy

5/14/2012 7:17:00 AM

Boutique hotel operators are not deterred by the growing presence of branded players in their sector, said panelists of the upcoming Boutique Hotel Summit.

Leveraging Pinterest, Instagram for hotels

5/14/2012 7:06:00 AM

Social networking sites enter the technological fray every day. Though some don’t have longevity, Instagram and Pinterest are proving to have a large reach providing long-term benefits to a hotel’s business.

Luxury guests seek authentic hotel stays

5/11/2012 5:32:00 PM

Luxury travelers are an eclectic group, yet most want the same thing. Starwood Hotels hopes to meet their demands with the addition of nine hotels to its Luxury Collection during 2012, said Global Brand Leader Paul James.

5 things to know: 11 May 2012

5/11/2012 5:21:00 PM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Luxury segment tops US April RevPAR growth
• AH&LA continues effort to delay pool-lift requirements
• Obama administration unveils next step in promoting US travel
• Deal opportunities abound in secondary markets
• JLLH: Miami deal volume expected to hit $650m

Deal opportunities in US secondary markets

5/11/2012 5:02:00 PM

A lot of transaction activity in the U.S. has been focused on the major gateway markets, but the Bellevue, Washingtons of the world have something to offer investors, too.

STR: US hotel results for week ending 5 May

5/11/2012 1:21:00 PM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy was up 5.1% to 63.2%; ADR increased 5.2% to $107.18; and RevPAR jumped 10.5% to $67.70.

The key to financing is in your own backyard

5/11/2012 11:43:00 AM

Debt financing is hard to come by. We all know that. What fewer hoteliers know is the best places to start looking for it.

China’s domestic chains undaunted by slowdown

5/11/2012 7:08:00 AM

7 Days Group Holdings Limited, China Lodging Group and Home Inns & Hotels Management continue to focus on growth strategies despite a slowdown in China’s economy.

Soft market hurts Q1 Home Inns occupancy

5/10/2012 10:01:00 PM

The company's occupancy declined to 80.7% during the quarter, compared to 85.1% in the same period a year ago.

Vendor Views entry form

5/10/2012 3:19:00 PM

Canada hotel performance for week ending 5 May

5/10/2012 9:45:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the country’s occupancy ended the week with a 0.6% increase to 64.2%; its ADR fell 1.7% to $127.82 Canadian dollars; and its RevPAR was down 1.1% to $82.02 Canadian dollars.

Brand DNA key to Hilton’s new design website

5/10/2012 9:38:00 AM

Hilton unveiled its new design website and technology strategies the company says will create efficient and cost-effective ways to maintain a consistently strong brand DNA.

5 things to know: 10 May 2012

5/10/2012 9:26:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Oahu Islands leads weekly US hotel results
• The sky’s the limit for hoteliers in Latin America
• IHG to continue focus on China in 2012
• Middle East markets pay up to boost airlift
• Room Key drops beta tag, adds new features

Oahu Island hotel market tops weekly results

5/10/2012 8:40:00 AM

The Hawaiian market reported double-digit increases in the three key performance metrics for the week ending 5 May, according to STR data.

Latin America high on hoteliers’ radar

5/10/2012 8:26:00 AM

While there are challenges to confront, hotel owners, operators and developers in Latin America have many reasons to be optimistic about the future.

Panelists: Deal flow tough to come by

5/10/2012 8:22:00 AM

Potential hotel acquirers are working hard to make hotel transactions work, panelists said during a general session at Meet the Money.

IHG: Focus remains on growth, profit in China

5/10/2012 7:48:00 AM

IHG reported RevPAR growth of 11.9% and ADR growth of 3.3% during the first quarter in Greater China. The company has 20 letters of intent signed from owners interested in the Hualuxe brand.

Starwood Capital taking Baccarat brand global

5/10/2012 7:02:00 AM

Morocco and Western Europe fit into the development plans of Baccarat Hotels & Residences, Starwood Capital’s Kevin Colket said.

JLLH: Miami hotel deal volume to reach $650m

5/9/2012 12:10:00 PM

Hotel transaction volume in Miami increased by 154% in 2011, reaching $557 million, marking the second highest level since 2005.

5 things to know: 9 May 2012

5/9/2012 9:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• CBRE reports key findings from historical deal data
• Penn Gaming wagers $610m on Harrah’s St. Louis
• Debt yield underlying force in underwriting
• Local knowledge key to development in Turkey
• All is not lost in the Caribbean

Automation could keep hotel energy costs down

5/9/2012 9:00:00 AM

There is a tremendous opportunity to conserve energy and save money through the use of smart-grid technology, but not many in the United States appear to be exploring that as an option.

Hoteliers face clouded debt landscape

5/9/2012 8:36:00 AM

Hotel companies face a varied financing environment today, panelists said Tuesday during the opening general session of Meet the Money.

HVS market snapshot: Prague

5/9/2012 8:29:00 AM

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, attracted more than 5.1 million visitor arrivals and 13.2 million roomnights in 2011.

Optimism sprouts for Caribbean hoteliers

5/9/2012 8:21:00 AM

Hotel investors in the Caribbean continue their quest to emerge from a three-year slump caused by the recession. But, as is the case in most markets, challenges remain.

Local knowledge key to development in Turkey

5/9/2012 8:09:00 AM

As Turkey continues to grow its economy, hotel development becomes more important. Local knowledge and experience are both important to executing and running a successful project.

IHG reports RevPAR and ADR growth in Q1

5/9/2012 8:08:00 AM

The company on Wednesday reported global RevPAR growth of 7% and global rate growth of 3.3%.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index up 3.4% in April

5/9/2012 8:01:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended April with a 3.4% increase to 2,507 and is up 23.8% year-to-date 2012. The index ended 2011 at 2,025.

Eleven Wireless names new CTO

5/9/2012 7:50:00 AM

Eleven Wireless names Dan Lulich as new chief technology officer to lead the company on next-generation technology solutions.

Gaylord’s search to unlock value continues

5/9/2012 7:33:00 AM

Executives at Gaylord Entertainment Company near completion of an investigation to unlock shareholder value. The efforts precede a vote over whether to extend the company’s poison pill plan.

TAB theories unsubstantiated in market

5/9/2012 6:57:00 AM

The created theory of Market Value of the Total Assets of the Business is a foreign concept to active market participants within the hotel real-estate investment arena and has been rejected by the courts.

5 things to know: 8 May 2012

5/8/2012 9:43:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Supply number gives STR executive pause
• Expedia: Brazil travel to US will be up 16% in 2012
• US defense budget cuts could hurt military markets
• Chatham reports record Q1 RevPAR
• Washington, DC tops guest review rankings

Caribbean hoteliers face issues, opportunity

5/8/2012 9:36:00 AM

Kerzner International and Almond Resorts sort through financial woes while Choice Hotels looks to double its presence in the Caribbean region during the next three years.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

5/8/2012 9:26:00 AM

This month's roundup of news from the Americas region takes us to Latin America, where U.S.-based hotel companies are investing heavily and opening hotels in uncharted territories.

Marketing tops Caribbean hoteliers’ wish list

5/8/2012 9:18:00 AM

Caribbean hoteliers need more marketing power to attract more guests, entice airlines to add airlift and fend off challenging issues in the wake of the recession.

Gaylord RevPAR increases 8.2% in Q1

5/8/2012 8:54:00 AM

Gaylord Hotels RevPAR increased 3.8% to $118.82 in the first quarter compared to $114.45 in Q1 2011.

Euro crisis impacts hotels in different ways

5/8/2012 8:53:00 AM

Flat or declining business, difficulties in obtaining credit and guests seeking bargains are among the issues facing hoteliers in the countries most affected by Europe’s economic situation.

China’s economy slows, hotel development grows

5/8/2012 8:27:00 AM

Economic growth slowed to a three-year low during the first quarter in China, but hotel companies still are forging ahead with development plans.

Defense budget cuts could impact hotel demand

5/8/2012 7:17:00 AM

President Obama's proposed defense budget cuts have some hoteliers in military markets scrambling to replace demand.

The end of the beginning

5/8/2012 7:12:00 AM

If there's any number that might give STR executives pause, it's the pending increase in supply three years out.

5 things to know: 7 May 2012

5/7/2012 9:46:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Extended-stay hotels report 7.2% Q1 ADR gain
• 10 hot US hotel openings
• Starwood Hotels to add 40 hotels in MENA
• HELP: Hotel industry entering new phase of recovery
• Asia/Pac continues to emerge as major feeder market

HELP panelists: Time to drive rate

5/7/2012 9:25:00 AM

The hotel sector’s revenue managers need to start lifting rate, especially as it concerns transient business, panelists said last week at the Hotel Equity and Lender Perspectives conference.

HotelNewsNow.com releases News Feed Widget

5/7/2012 9:16:00 AM

The News Feed Widget pulls headlines from HotelNewsNow.com to deliver breaking news and other articles canvassing the hotel industry.

Finance puzzle fits together for Radisson Blu

5/7/2012 8:57:00 AM

To secure financing for the Radisson Blu at Mall of America, developers compiled a bevy of funding sources, including mortgage-secured notes, Recovery Zone Facility bonds, general obligation bonds and developer equity.

Brands defend unfair franchising allegations

5/7/2012 8:53:00 AM

Executives from major global hotel chains get defensive over charges of unfair franchising during a heated general session at the Asian American Hotel Owners Association.

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 12:00:00 PM

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 11:59:00 AM

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 11:58:00 AM

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 11:57:00 AM

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 11:56:00 AM

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 11:55:00 AM

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 11:54:00 AM

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 11:53:00 AM

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 11:52:00 AM

10 hot hotel openings

5/4/2012 11:51:00 AM

10 hot hotel openings to keep an eye on

5/4/2012 11:50:00 AM

HotelNewsNow.com’s Jason Q. Freed provides a snapshot of 10 hotel projects valued at more than $40 million either under construction or near groundbreaking in the United States.

5 things to know: 4 May 2012

5/4/2012 10:04:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Sunstone to buy Wyndham Chicago for $88.4m
• Occupancy up at MGM, but staffing remains tight
• AHHOA leaders voice concerns about organization’s future
• Study: Central city locations have dual effect on room rates
• Eccomplished: Online reviews valued more than word-of-mouth

Hyatt realigns in effort to lift performance

5/4/2012 8:49:00 AM

Executives of Hyatt Hotels Corporation are restructuring the company’s operations and development teams and making senior management changes to boost effectiveness, said CEO Mark Hoplamazian.

STR: US results for week ending 28 April

5/4/2012 8:42:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy was up 6.4% to 65%; ADR increased 7.5% to $106.67; and RevPAR jumped 14.4% to $69.34.

RevPAR growth for Central and South America

5/4/2012 8:35:00 AM

Rio de Janeiro and Cordoba, Argentina, ended the first quarter with RevPAR increases of more than 20%, achieving the top two spots in terms of RevPAR growth of the 14 markets tracked by STR Global.

Leaders: measured growth in brands’ futures

5/4/2012 8:18:00 AM

Brand executives speaking at the HELP conference said that what growth comes from new construction needs to have a financial bump from the brands to make it happen.

Derby days and the AAHOA haze

5/4/2012 7:56:00 AM

The Kentucky Derby is driving up performance in Louisville, Kentucky. A few hundred miles away in Atlanta, hoteliers are grumbling at AAHOA.

Leaders voice concerns over future of AAHOA

5/4/2012 7:33:00 AM

The Asian American Hotel Owners Association has made tremendous strides in its nearly 20-year history, but political infighting is creating an association divided, according to a panel of leading members.

Hyatt reports 8.3% increase in RevPAR for Q1

5/3/2012 10:09:00 AM

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced Thursday comparable owned and leased hotel RevPAR increased 8.3% in the first quarter of 2012 compared to Q1 of 2011.

Red Lion focused on reducing debt in 2012

5/3/2012 10:02:00 AM

Red Lion Hotels continues to seek “strategic alternative options,” including a possible sale of the company or a combination with a third party, said CEO Jon Eliassen in the company’s Q1 earnings call.

MGM releases Q1 results

5/3/2012 10:01:00 AM

MGM Resorts International on Thursday reported room revenue for the its wholly owned domestic resorts increased 3%, with a 4% increase in RevPAR at the company's Las Vegas Strip resorts.

Red Lion reports Q1 RevPAR up 7.3%

5/3/2012 9:51:00 AM

Red Lion Hotels Corporation announced Wednesday its RevPAR for owned and leased hotels increased 7.3% during the first quarter.

5 things to know: 3 May 2012

5/3/2012 9:50:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hyatt, MGM, Red Lion report Q1 results
• HELP: Prospect of weakening demand looms
• Hyatt acquires Hotel Nikko in Mexico City for $190m
• STR releases weekly US, Canada results
• Initial US employment claims decrease

Hotel demand could weaken long term

5/3/2012 9:38:00 AM

The hotel sector is churning along today, though demand could weaken during the next several years, panelists said during the opening general session of the inaugural HELP conference.

New Orleans tops weekly ADR, RevPAR increases

5/3/2012 8:24:00 AM

The market’s ADR rose 23.1% to $168.58; its RevPAR jumped 41.6% to $144.06; and its occupancy increased 15% to 85.5%.

Canada performance for week ending 28 April

5/3/2012 8:19:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the country’s occupancy ended the week with a 8.4% increase to 65.1%; its ADR was up 1.9% to $124.51 Canadian dollars; and its RevPAR increased 10.5% to CA$81.05.

Brazil development on track for demand influx

5/3/2012 7:46:00 AM

The South American country is witnessing a building boom in the lead up to the World Cup and Olympic Games. However, that’s not to say development is easy.

Midweek ADR in Sao Paulo ‘skyrocketing’

5/3/2012 7:03:00 AM

A supply-demand imbalance in Brazil’s largest city has hoteliers charging rates as high as $700 per day. Hoteliers suggest pricing power will be sustainable well into the future.

5 things to know: 2 May 2012

5/2/2012 10:14:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
•    Sahara Hotel & Casino to be redeveloped into SLS Las Vegas
•    HVS: US hotel transactions rebounded in 2011
•    Debt financing difficult to come by in Middle East
•    ADP: Employment growth slows in US
•    Qatar National Hotels rebrands as Katara Hospitality

MEA hotel debt financing terms

5/2/2012 10:04:00 AM

Lenders discussed the terms at which they would finance hypothetical hotel projects in the Middle East during a panel at the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference.

Collaborative selling key as demand returns

5/2/2012 9:55:00 AM

Professional meeting managers and planners are coming to the next round of meetings negotiations armed with lessons learned from the planner-friendly booking days of 2009 to 2011.

Bank lending still tight in Middle East

5/2/2012 9:55:00 AM

Hotel performance might be recovering in the Middle East, but debt financing is still difficult to come by, according to panelists at the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference.

STR: Strong results forecasted this summer

5/2/2012 9:43:00 AM

STR predicts occupancy for the three summer months combined to rise 1.8% to 69%; ADR to increase 3.9% to $106.64; and RevPAR to increase 5.7% to $73.59.

Cancellations pour in on heels of GSA scandal

5/2/2012 9:31:00 AM

The GSA scandal is hitting the government''s meeting sector hard, and meeting planners hope the industry remains unscathed while the investigation continues to unfold.

FelCor seeing strong demand from buyers

5/2/2012 8:47:00 AM

FelCor Lodging Trust has offers for 18 hotels it has on the market as the REIT looks to continue restructuring its portfolio.

China hotel developers optimistic about future

5/2/2012 8:39:00 AM

As hotel expansion in China ramps up, developers in the region are learning FF&E projects that retain quality and value are more important than focusing on the lowest price point.

Group business remains relatively anemic

5/2/2012 8:00:00 AM

Sources say many organizations are still holding fewer meetings, and at the events that are happening, fewer attendees are being hosted as planners face tighter, more scrutinized budgets.

Caribbean developers get creative for capital

5/1/2012 9:43:00 AM

Considered a high-risk investment for lenders, financing hotel development in the Caribbean is a major challenge for developers, who are turning to more creative alternatives to get projects off the ground.

5 things to know: 1 May 2012

5/1/2012 9:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Kerzner parts with its half of Atlantis Dubai
• PKF: US hotel profit recovery widespread
• Choice opens 46 hotels in Q1
• FelCor sells six hotels for $103m
• Study: Last-click attribution models least effective for marketers

TripAdvisor fights fraud with expert on board

5/1/2012 7:32:00 AM

With former organized e-commerce investigator Andrew Marane on board, TripAdvisor executives are out to prove just how serious its zero-tolerance policy on fake reviews really is.

Capital search focus of Meet the Money

5/1/2012 7:24:00 AM

Capital providers will descend upon Los Angeles next week for the Meet the Money conference, where they will shed light on how hotel companies can find financing in an uncertain environment.

3 tips to manage operations

5/1/2012 7:18:00 AM

Challenges emerge in any business, but a solid team and management strategy will keep staff members motivated and prepared for any obstacle thrown their way.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

5/1/2012 7:07:00 AM

Included in this month’s roundup of hotel news from Europe: Travelodge appoints a new CEO; Meliá bets big on new mega resort; and development in the U.K. heats up.

FelCor updates hotel sales process

5/1/2012 7:00:00 AM

The REIT reported a 3.6% RevPAR increase in its first-quarter earnings release Tuesday.

5 things to know: 30 April 2012

4/30/2012 10:41:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Optimism rules at AHIC
• DiamondRock reports 8.8% increase in RevPAR during Q1
• Spending up for US consumers in March as incomes rise
• Brighter Planet: Hotel chains greatly differ in energy efficiency
• Mövenpick to expand into China with new name and logo

AHIC: Diverse markets influence MENA growth

4/30/2012 10:06:00 AM

Officials attending Day One of the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference said MENA presents a varied landscape for hotels.

Choice expects to build on Q1 conversions

4/30/2012 9:28:00 AM

Choice Hotels International will see a significant uptick in conversion activity as deal activity begins to trickle down from the upper-tiers to the midscale and economy segments, said President and CEO Steve Joyce.

NLRB ‘ambush rule’ goes into effect

4/30/2012 9:20:00 AM

A new rule from the U.S. National Labor Relations Board goes into effect today, truncating the amount of time hoteliers have to campaign before union elections.

Lane poised for growth post acquisition

4/30/2012 9:12:00 AM

Lane Hotels pared down its portfolio to 17 from its peak of 45 nearly 15 years ago. But following its acquisition by AWH Partners LLC, portfolio growth is again in the mix.

Optimism rules MENA hotel investment plans

4/30/2012 9:06:00 AM

Hotel development executives outlined their investment strategies for the Middle East and North Africa during the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference in Dubai.

Strategy key when repurposing in the Caribbean

4/30/2012 8:37:00 AM

Taking a hard look at an opportunity is crucial before hoteliers in the Caribbean consider repurposing a troubled asset stalled after the economic crisis.

Kickin’ Apps: April’s top hotel apps

4/30/2012 8:17:00 AM

This month’s roundup of the most interesting and innovative hotel apps includes Ustay, MO Hotels, Oyster.com, Weave and Analytics App.

5 things to know: 27 April 2012

4/27/2012 9:42:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• JLLH: Brands accelerating growth in new global markets
• Choice sees RevPAR, ADR, occupancy rise in Q1
• US hotels show weekly gains thanks to Easter comp
• Internal I-9 policies reduce employer burden
• Marriott making big push in China

Choice domestic RevPAR grew 8.6% in Q1

4/27/2012 9:08:00 AM

Choice Hotels International reported Friday the company's domestic system-wide RevPAR increased 8.6% during the first quarter.

HoJo, Hilton go 'Mad'

4/27/2012 8:43:00 AM

The iconic hotel brands have received prominent placement in AMC’s acclaimed drama “Mad Men.” But how did the characterizations stack up against reality?

Starwood Hotels expects ‘golden age’ of travel

4/27/2012 8:29:00 AM

Global demand continues to build for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide properties, particularly in the luxury segment as the economic picture steadily improves.

STR: US results for week ending 21 April

4/27/2012 7:43:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy was up 12.6% to 65.5%; ADR increased 7.8% to $106.66; and RevPAR jumped 21.4% to $69.91.

Saudi Arabian markets lead GCC Q1 RevPAR gains

4/27/2012 7:06:00 AM

The major markets across the Gulf Cooperation Council reported mixed results in RevPAR following mostly positive performance for year-end 2011, according to STR Global.

Hotel Earnings Tracker

4/27/2012 6:58:00 AM

View the latest results from the Q1 hotel earnings season and a list of upcoming results.

JLLH: Hotels pursuing global brand growth

4/26/2012 11:47:00 AM

Hotel companies are looking to establish their brands in markets such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Nigeria, Turkey, and Vietnam, according to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels.

5 things to know: 26 April 2012

4/26/2012 9:45:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Starwood, Whitbread release earnings
• US Senate approves shortening union election window
• Panelists: Caribbean hotels in position to bounce back
• Expected Singapore tourism boost lifts Global Premium Hotels
• US weekly unemployment claims drop

Whitbread gains edge amid Travelodge troubles

4/26/2012 9:37:00 AM

Whitbread PLC acquired a few hotel development sites previously earmarked for Travelodge amid the latter’s financial structuring, according to Whitbread CEO Andy Harrison.

Data forecasts highlight Caribbean’s potential

4/26/2012 9:16:00 AM

Panelists at the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Investment Conference shared data outlining the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for the Caribbean tourism industry.

Whitbread RevPAR up 1.8% in fiscal year

4/26/2012 9:14:00 AM

Premier Inn like-for-like RevPAR increased 1.8% during the fiscal year, with an increase of 0.8% in the regions and 7.3% in London.

Ace pitcher Kirwin fuels AmericInn’s rally

4/26/2012 8:56:00 AM

The president and CEO represented his brand well Monday, throwing out the first pitch of a matchup between the Minnesota Twins and Boston Red Sox at Target Field in Minnesota.

Caribbean leaders stress public-private unity

4/26/2012 8:50:00 AM

Lack of trust between the public and private sectors in the Caribbean needs to change for the region to remain competitive, according to speakers at the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Investment Conference.

Starwood's Q1 results 'surprise on the upside'

4/26/2012 8:30:00 AM

Systemwide RevPAR for same-store hotels increased 5.8% while management fees, franchise fees and other income increased 13.6% compared to 2011.

Canada performance for week ending 21 April

4/26/2012 8:09:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the country’s occupancy ended the week with a 22.7% increase to 63.7%; its ADR was up 9.1% to $126.27 Canadian dollars; and its RevPAR increased 33.9% to CA$80.44.

US hotel performance strong against easy comps

4/26/2012 7:12:00 AM

An easy year-over-year comparison against 2011's Easter week fueled double-digit gains in occupancy and RevPAR for the U.S. hotel industry.

Host: Gains in group business led Q1 success

4/26/2012 7:02:00 AM

Increasingly positive fundamentals have solidified the REIT’s confidence in boosting acquisition activity, President and CEO Ed Walter said.

Mezz debt still available for Wyndham projects

4/25/2012 9:27:00 AM

Wyndham two years ago made $200 million in mezzanine financing available for developers; the company hasn’t come close to using up that amount, Chairman and CEO Stephen P. Holmes said.

5 things to know: 25 April 2012

4/25/2012 9:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• JV acquiring Lane Hotels
• Host, Wyndham release Q1 earnings
• BHA: Reducing VAT to 5% would create 78,000 jobs
• Africa development grows; Tokyo battles back
• Hotel hiring on the increase

STR Analytics’ Tour de Data examines DC market

4/25/2012 8:32:00 AM

Tour de Data, hosted by STR Analytics and the STR family of companies, is making its next stop in Washington, D.C., to reveal in-depth statistics on the market.

Hyatt addresses top revenue-management issues

4/25/2012 8:20:00 AM

Nearly two years into his position, Greg Cross, senior VP of revenue management for Hyatt Hotels Corporation, is tasked with taking the company’s revenue-management strategies to the next level.

Host Hotels calls and re-raises guidance

4/25/2012 8:06:00 AM

Gains in RevPAR (6.1%), ADR (2.9%) and occupancy (210 basis points) all came in ahead of Host's previous full-year guidance.

Africa hotel development churning

4/25/2012 7:51:00 AM

A search for growth markets during the global recession has led hoteliers to Africa, where development is picking up speed.

Oil-rich markets do not guarantee hotel demand

4/25/2012 7:37:00 AM

Upper-priced hotels are more closely linked to movements in income and corporate profits than their lower-priced counterparts, which are more reliant on a population with high levels of employment.

Tokyo hotels show slow but steady recovery

4/25/2012 7:28:00 AM

Tokyo hotels are showing signs of recovery a year after the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami devastated the city. Still, there is a long way to go until the market fully recovers.

AWH Partners acquires Lane Hotels

4/25/2012 7:13:00 AM

AWH Partners, LLC -- August Group Ventures, LLC (AGV) and Winston Harton Holdings, LLC (WHH) -- announced a joint venture to purchase Lane Hotels, Inc.

Wyndham reports Q1 results

4/25/2012 6:58:00 AM

System-wide RevPAR was up 7% during the first quarter of 2012.

UPDATE: KSL won't up bid for Great Wolf

4/24/2012 9:31:00 AM

Great Wolf appears poised to accept Apollo's latest bid of $7.85 per share.

5 things to know: 24 April 2012

4/24/2012 9:16:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: Q1 hotel performance positive in US
• Construction debt available for best midscale projects
• UAE lucrative area for hotel development
• US hotel acquirers broadening their reach
• Abu Dhabi sees increased number of guests in Q1

UAE hotel development gaining strength

4/24/2012 9:00:00 AM

The United Arab Emirates has 44,886 rooms in the total pipeline, according to STR Global data.

Pieces must align for new construction

4/24/2012 8:39:00 AM

Panelists at AmericInn’s annual brand conference said it’s the right time to build midscale hotels—but only in markets with strong demand generators and on the right terms.

STR reports Q1 2012 results

4/24/2012 8:23:00 AM

The industry’s occupancy increased 3.8% to 56.8%; ADR rose 4% to $103.54; and RevPAR was up 7.9% to $58.78.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

4/24/2012 7:40:00 AM

In this roundup of news from the MEA region: Hotel companies are bolstering development in the emirates; and Accor has halted projects in Bahrain and Syria.

Q1 hotel deals show US heartland shift

4/24/2012 7:13:00 AM

Hotel acquirers slowly are beginning to move away from their U.S. coastal comfort zones to the middle of the country, an analysis of Q1 hotel trades by LW Hospitality Advisors shows.

Hotel industry key to recovery in Greece

4/24/2012 7:06:00 AM

Economic volatility in Greece and bad publicity surrounding bailout negotiations, as well as resulting protests took their toll on the country’s hotels during the second half of 2011.

STR Global: MEA results for March

4/23/2012 10:11:00 AM

In March 2012, the region’s occupancy jumped 14.6% to 65.1%, its ADR increased 3.3% to $175.33, and its RevPAR jumped 18.4% to $114.07.

5 things to know: 23 April 2012

4/23/2012 10:08:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• March global hotel operating results released
• GSA Vegas convention fallout spreads
• AmericInn CEO: 2012 a ‘turning point’ for brand
• Demand increases following tornadic activity
• Cvent: Top 5 hotels for US meetings named

STR Global: Europe results for March

4/23/2012 9:50:00 AM

In the first quarter of 2012, the region reported a 0.8% increase in occupancy to 57.5%, a 1.7% rise in ADR to €97.45, and a 2.5% increase to €56.07.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for March

4/23/2012 9:30:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the Asia/Pacific region’s occupancy increased 4.4% to 69.4%, its ADR increased 4.8% to $145.64, and its RevPAR was up 9.4% to $101.01.

STR Global: Americas results for March

4/23/2012 9:04:00 AM

The Americas region reported a 3.8% increase in occupancy to 63.7%, a 3.5% gain in ADR to $109.06, and a 7.5% jump in RevPAR to $69.49.

AmericInn to boost growth, quality in 2012

4/23/2012 8:55:00 AM

New brand standards include more hot breakfast options and providing free, fast Wi-Fi, said Paul Kirwin, President and CEO at the company’s annual conference in Minneapolis.

Branson hotels rebuilding after tornado damage

4/23/2012 7:31:00 AM

Repair work is underway for several hotels damaged by an early-morning tornado in Branson, Missouri, on 29 February, though at least one property will be demolished.

Tornadic activity drives hotel demand, rate

4/23/2012 7:06:00 AM

The tornadoes that ripped through Birmingham and Tuscaloosa, Alabama, last year led to a significant uptick in demand and occupancy.

Naturally Green & Clean

4/20/2012 12:07:00 PM

Clorox Commercial Solutions® Green Works® Concentrated Cleaners are a breakthrough line of 95-99 percent naturally derived cleaners made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients. (more)

Recycled Aluminum Tables

4/20/2012 12:03:00 PM

Southern Aluminum, The Linenless Table Company, not only invented innovative aluminum tables, but has also focused on sustainable furniture design, for over 30 years. (more)

5 things to know: 20 April 2012

4/20/2012 10:07:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HotelNewsNow.com’s Sustainability Showcase wraps up
• MGM shareholders amend lawsuit after stock prices tumble
• Jumeirah Group makes executive level personnel moves
• $350m earmarked for flagship Sheraton properties
• Underground malware aims to attack hotel POS systems

Cleveland’s renaissance attracts hoteliers

4/20/2012 9:32:00 AM

As many Rust Belt cities struggle to regain their footing, Cleveland is proving resilient with a revitalized downtown area that is attracting hotel developers to the market.

STR: US results for week ending 14 April

4/20/2012 8:58:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy fell 1.5% to 62.1%; ADR increased 0.8% to $103.17; and RevPAR ended the week with a 0.7% decrease to $64.09.

STR: US hotel performance for March

4/20/2012 8:51:00 AM

Overall, the U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 4% to 63.6%; its ADR was up 3.9% to $105.91; and its RevPAR increased 8% to $67.38.

Sorenson: US group booking pace percolating

4/20/2012 8:40:00 AM

Marriott is seeing strong growth in smaller group meetings business in the U.S., President and CEO Arne Sorenson said during the company’s Q1 earnings call Thursday.

One fat kid and 2,315,000 hotel rooms

4/20/2012 8:10:00 AM

The hotel industry and I have been on opposite growth tracks during the past 12 years. And we’re both better for it.

5 things to know: 19 April 2012

4/19/2012 10:04:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott reports 6.8% RevPAR growth in Q1
• Azimut Hotels poised for expansion in Russia, Europe
• STR releases weekly and March hotel performance data
• Luxury hotel Baccarat will be developed in New York
• Which REITs are expected to deliver strong Q1 results?

Virginia Beach hotels top weekly RevPAR gains

4/19/2012 9:12:00 AM

Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Virginia, achieved the largest increases in both occupancy and RevPAR during the week of 8-14 April, according to data from STR.

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

4/19/2012 9:04:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 221 hotels totaling 32,898 rooms, according to the March STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for March

4/19/2012 8:54:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 128 hotels totaling 17,886 rooms, according to the March STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Economy hotels lead March RevPAR increases

4/19/2012 8:49:00 AM

The economy chain-scale segment reported the largest increase in RevPAR during March, according to data from STR.

Canada performance for week ending 14 April

4/19/2012 8:41:00 AM

Canada's hotel industry ended the week with a 7.4% occupancy decrease to 56.7%; a 0.9% ADR decrease to $122.14 Canadian dollars; and a 8.2% RevPAR decrease to $69.31 Canadian dollars.

Marriott reports 18% Q1 profit growth

4/19/2012 8:08:00 AM

Group business was strong during the first quarter, according to President and CEO Arne Sorenson.

Azimut strengthens foothold in Russia

4/19/2012 7:44:00 AM

Launched in 2004, the Moscow-based hotel chain has big plans for 2012, including a business-focused refresh, a hotel opening in Moscow and the launch of a booking engine.

Pandox sells hotel property in Stockholm

4/18/2012 3:31:00 PM

Pandox sells business and conference hotel Ibis Hägersten in southern Stockholm.

5 things to know: 18 April 2012

4/18/2012 10:03:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Pegasus: Leisure rates rising at record levels
• A hotelier’s guide to going mobile
• Pipeline data for three key global regions
• Accor reports Q1 revenue up 4.5%
• HIP: Growth rate slows, recession risk is rising

STR Global: MEA hotel pipeline for March

4/18/2012 9:01:00 AM

In the Middle East/Africa region, 12 properties opened in the first quarter with 2,718 rooms.

STR Global: Europe hotel pipeline for March

4/18/2012 8:56:00 AM

Among the key markets in the region, Manchester, United Kingdom, reported the largest expected growth (27.7%) if all 3,611 rooms in the total active pipeline open.

A guide to going mobile for hoteliers

4/18/2012 8:44:00 AM

Implementing a mobile strategy is crucial in making a hotel successful. Any hotelier not yet on the technology bandwagon is missing out on important business and profits, sources said.

STR Global: Asia/Pac hotel pipeline for March

4/18/2012 8:24:00 AM

Among the region’s countries, India reported the largest expected room growth (35%) if all 60,845 rooms in its total active pipeline open.

Hemingway Hotels leader confident in new brand

4/18/2012 7:53:00 AM

Tuckey Devlin has relaunched the Hemingway Hotels & Resorts brand—this time with new partners and better capitalization—aimed at creating “the best place Hemingway would have chosen.”

HIP: US hotel growth continues to slow

4/18/2012 7:22:00 AM

The probability of the hotel industry entering into recession registered 21.8% in March, up from 20.1% in February.

Ultra-luxury Caribbean hotels survive downturn

4/18/2012 7:16:00 AM

The Caribbean ultra-luxury segment faced problems from the economic downturn, but has recovered and is stronger than ever in the global market.

Broadband, mag stripes and a big headache

4/18/2012 7:11:00 AM

Slow Internet access and non-working keycards can frustrate even loyal guests.

Accor revenue increases 4.5% during Q1

4/18/2012 7:08:00 AM

Accor set a new expansion record during the first quarter with the opening of 7,720 rooms (56 hotels).

Hemingway Hotels will celebrate author

4/17/2012 2:05:00 PM

Hemingway Hotels & Resorts is targeting developers for hotels in destinations that are inspired by Ernest Hemingway's work, travels and appetite for life.

5 things to know: 17 April 2012

4/17/2012 9:17:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hoteliers debate US presidential election’s impact
• Chicago hoteliers downplay effects of G-8 move
• Trivago: Hotel prices in Europe are beginning to climb
• US Travel looks for backup in negative meetings battle
• HVS explores how casinos influence nearby hotel values

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

4/17/2012 8:48:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: China experiences a slowdown during Q1; Sri Lanka begins to rebuild its hotel industry; and hotels in Australia and New Zealand struggle for rate parity.

STR Global Census Database at 13.4m rooms

4/17/2012 8:28:00 AM

Total global hotel inventory increased by more than 2,315,000 daily rooms since 2000 to reach 13,443,014 rooms as of February, according to the Census database from STR Global.

Chicago hoteliers downplay effects of G-8 move

4/17/2012 7:59:00 AM

Chicago hoteliers would have been scrambling to fill rooms in the wake of the G-8 summit move had it not been for the NATO summit happening the same weekend.

Debating US presidential election's impact

4/17/2012 7:14:00 AM

Whether who’s in office has a direct effect on the industry is up for debate among hoteliers, but one thing is clear: The success of the economy and the success of hotels are in direct correlation.

Extra compliance for eco-sensitive development

4/16/2012 2:19:00 PM

Developing a hotel in an environmentally sensitive area requires extra time, patience and planning. But the rewards, developers say, are well worth the pain.

Development Spotlight: E.c.ho. Hotel

4/16/2012 2:13:00 PM

Starhotels’ boutique E.c.ho. Hotel in Milan bucks the city’s trend of fashion-first design with an eco-conscious development that still manages to turn heads.

Special Report: Sustainability Showcase

4/16/2012 12:25:00 PM

Sustainable business practices continue to grow and evolve as they become more prevalent. The Sustainability Showcase delves into the myriad ways the hotel industry is going green.

Vantage forms partnership to develop in India

4/16/2012 10:18:00 AM

VanMYT Hospitality, a partnership between Vantage Hospitality and three members of AAHOA, has exclusive rights to develop Value Inn Worldwide and Value Hotel Worldwide brands in India.

5 things to know: 16 April 2012

4/16/2012 9:41:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• US hotel sector courting foreign capital
• Great Wolf close to accepting acquisition deal
• Marriott to double Caribbean, Latin America portfolio
• Travel sector led international trade in February
• Modern Honolulu hires new GM

Global investors taking long look at US hotels

4/16/2012 8:44:00 AM

Investors in Asia/Pacific and Middle East regions view the U.S. as a safe location in which to invest capital, sources report.

Flash sales fizzle with hoteliers

4/16/2012 7:44:00 AM

Out of the 40% of hoteliers who have tried flash sale websites, 38% do not plan to use them again, according to a TravelClick survey of 900 global hoteliers.

Enhance the guest experience with technology

4/16/2012 7:23:00 AM

Recent hotel technology wars focus on closing the gap between technology in guests' homes and their hotel room.

9 hotel professional networking tips

4/16/2012 6:55:00 AM

A lot of us are great “social networkers” on sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn, but fewer are proficient at “networking socially” face to face.

Guests seeking sustainability on the road

4/13/2012 1:43:00 PM

As guests incorporate sustainability into their own lives, they expect to see sustainability initiatives when they hit the road, too.

It pays to play nice in distribution space

4/13/2012 10:34:00 AM

The hotel distribution landscape is fragmented, leaving guests to wander the abyss in a state of frustration and confusion, according to new research.

5 things to know: 13 April 2012

4/13/2012 10:23:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• China's Q1 economic growth slowed to 8.1%
• Bidding war leads to jump in Great Wolf’s stock price
• Hoteliers should be proactive in advance of I-9 audits
• Q1 transactions notes from LW Hospitality Advisors
• America’s Best Franchising opens 7 hotels in Q1

STR: US hotel results for week ending 7 April

4/13/2012 10:11:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy fell 4.1% to 59.4%; ADR increased 3.3% to $104.52; and RevPAR ended the week with a 0.9% decrease to $62.03.

Hotel engagement key to social-media success

4/13/2012 7:15:00 AM

Social media plays a valuable role in hoteliers’ ability to create and maintain brand loyalty.

Element looks globally for growth

4/12/2012 12:33:00 PM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide hopes developer interest ramps up for its eco-friendly Element brand as construction financing loosens.

Canada performance for week ending 7 April

4/12/2012 10:02:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the Canadian hotel industry’s occupancy ended the week with a 12.9% decrease to 50.3%; its ADR fell 2.6% to $119.13 Canadian dollars; and its RevPAR was down 15.2% to $59.87 Canadian dollars.

5 things to know: 12 April 2012

4/12/2012 9:20:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Sri Lanka begins to rebuild its hotel industry
• US business travelers are going rogue
• Study: Four Seasons most digitally competent brand
• Orlando tops weekly US hotel performance
• Employees’ financial concerns escalate, says PwC

Deals and developments in Sri Lanka

4/12/2012 9:16:00 AM

5 tips for a successful pricing strategy

4/12/2012 9:13:00 AM

When setting rates, having pricing data on a hotel’s competitive set is crucial. Exhaust the data and ensure the hotel is comparing apples to apples.

Sri Lanka designates four development zones

4/12/2012 9:11:00 AM

Incentives spur development in Sri Lanka

4/12/2012 9:05:00 AM

Sri Lanka boasts natural, cultural splendor

4/12/2012 9:01:00 AM

Business travelers going rogue

4/12/2012 8:59:00 AM

As more business travelers start making their own booking decisions, hoteliers should shift their focus from corporate travel managers to the end user, according to new research from PhoCusWright.

Orlando hotels lead US weekly RevPAR increases

4/12/2012 8:39:00 AM

Boosted by strong spring-break demand, Orlando reported a RevPAR increase of 28.9% for the week ending 7 April, according to STR.

Sri Lanka aims to triple hotel supply by 2016

4/12/2012 8:07:00 AM

After 30 years of civil war, Sri Lanka’s government wants to add 35,000 hotel rooms within the next four years.

Use forecasts as benchmarks for improvement

4/12/2012 7:29:00 AM

Revenue teams should consider ways to make forecasts inaccurate by improving on results.

5 things to know: 11 April 2012

4/11/2012 9:38:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Price/value gap expanding in fragmented distribution landscape
• STR releases US, Canada hotel development pipelines
• Celebrity chefs can create recipe for success
• Kingdom Holding: Plaza Hotel not for sale
• 21c Museum Hotels buys site in Kentucky for fourth hotel

STR reports Canada hotel pipeline for March

4/11/2012 9:03:00 AM

Canada’s hotel development pipeline comprises 196 projects totaling 19,909 rooms, according to the March STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for March

4/11/2012 8:49:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,752 projects totaling 293,850 rooms, according to the March STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

Development percolating in South America

4/11/2012 7:53:00 AM

Steady demand and a dearth of supply represent huge opportunities for hotel developers in Argentina and Chile.

Celebrity chefs can create recipe for success

4/11/2012 7:29:00 AM

Celebrity chefs can provide luxury hotels with a revenue accelerator, but first hotel owners and operators need to decide what management contract works best for their properties' day-to-day operations.

InnStyle’s Cross aims to utilize unused space

4/11/2012 6:59:00 AM

Industry veteran Gary Cross plans to help economy hotel owners capitalize on under-used space while maximizing revenue opportunities with new brand.

5 things to know: 10 April 2012

4/10/2012 10:11:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Arbitration panels favor Summit in Choice dispute
• TravelClick: US RevPAR on future bookings up 7.9%
• Pegasus Capital to acquire Six Senses resort brand
• WSJ: Indian conglomerate bids for NYC’s Plaza Hotel
• Expedia launches new connectivity platform

Summit, Choice dispute settled in arbitration

4/10/2012 10:01:00 AM

An arbitration panel settled a dispute between Summit Hotel Properties and Choice Hotels International over 11 terminated franchise agreements.

Global Hotel Pulse: Americas News

4/10/2012 9:54:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: The Americas pipelines continue to decrease; negative meetings rhetoric returns to the spotlight; and key openings and transactions.

Pegasus Capital to acquire Six Senses Resorts

4/10/2012 9:07:00 AM

Pegasus will acquire all of the Six Senses and Evason branded resort and spa management contracts, and operate them under a new company managed by Pegasus and its affiliates.

Is Room Key keeping up with OTAs?

4/10/2012 8:58:00 AM

After more than a few months on the market, Room Key appears to be an underdeveloped idea.

Meliá bets on new mega resort in Mediterranean

4/10/2012 8:50:00 AM

Meliá Hotels International is developing a four-property mega resort in Majorca in an attempt to attract more upscale clientele to the budget-minded beach town.

FelCor’s portfolio repositioning continues

4/10/2012 8:32:00 AM

FelCor is ridding its portfolio of properties where internal rate of return does not exceed weighted average cost of capital.

The unusual suspects: 4 weird hotels

4/10/2012 7:08:00 AM

Travel enthusiasts and adventure seekers might want to consider staying at these four unique properties.

Expedia upgrades connectivity platform

4/10/2012 6:49:00 AM

Expedia, Inc. launched Expedia Connect 2, a connectivity solution that offers hotels and reservation system providers the ability to design, build and deploy standardized interfaces to connect directly with Expedia.

ABVI adds 35 hotels in Q1

4/9/2012 1:44:00 PM

Americas Best Value Inn continues growing with 35 new hotels in Q1.

5 things to know: 9 April 2012

4/9/2012 9:58:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Great Wolf bidding war heats up
• Group travel spending continues to rise
• Booking windows lengthen for business, leisure
• Dubai hotels in February post marginal GOPPAR growth
• US travel employment up 6,000 in March

Revenue managers adapt to longer lead times

4/9/2012 9:15:00 AM

In North America, the average reservation lead time for leisure travelers is approaching pre-recession levels, while business-traveler lead times have surpassed international and pre-recession numbers.

Hotel renovations start getting real … tonight

4/9/2012 9:05:00 AM

My two loves of unscripted drama and learning about hotels will meet tonight with the premiere of Travel Channel’s “Hotel Impossible.”

Hotel Stock Index up double-digits in Q1

4/9/2012 8:56:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended March with a 4.8% increase and ended Q1 with a 19.7% increase to 2,424. The index ended 2011 at 2,025.

Marriott’s Brown eyes expansion opportunities

4/9/2012 8:19:00 AM

Marriott International’s select-service and extended-stay brands have plenty of room for growth, and COO Liam Brown wouldn’t mind seeing another brand to house converted properties in that mix.

Case study: Independent hotel reclaims revenue

4/9/2012 6:58:00 AM

When a hotel flounders, things can seem hopeless. But by reviewing what the hotel is doing wrong, updating its online presence and allocating misspent funds, a hotel can come back from the brink.

UPDATE: KSL ups bid for Great Wolf

4/9/2012 6:34:00 AM

KSL Capital Partners is proposing to acquire Great Wolf for $7 per share in cash, trumping, for the time being, Apollo's bid of $6.75 per share.

UPDATE: HHM drops 'web of deception' suit

4/6/2012 9:01:00 AM

Hersha Hospitality Management LP has dropped its suit against two former employees accussed of stealing “thousands” of confidential electronic documents.

5 things to know: 6 April 2012

4/6/2012 9:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• New president and COO of Fairmont Raffles focused on growth
• Survey: More Americans traveling, but future remains sketchy
• IgnitionOne: Online travel search spend grows 58.9% in Q1
• China Lodging Group reports 9% Q1 RevPAR growth
• STR releases weekly performance data for US, Canada

US hotel results for week ending 31 March

4/6/2012 8:38:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy was up 6.6% to 64.6%; ADR increased 5.8% to $105.94; and RevPAR was up 12.8% to $68.42.

Canada performance for week ending 31 March

4/6/2012 8:27:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the Canadian hotel industry’s occupancy ended the week with a 4.2% increase to 60.9%; its ADR rose 2% to $123.51 Canadian dollars; and its RevPAR was up 6.2% to $75.19 Canadian dollars.

Fairmont Raffles new COO keen on global growth

4/6/2012 7:41:00 AM

In his new role as president and COO, Michael Glennie will help the company pursue its goal of growing the hotel portfolio by 50% to 150 properties during the next five years.

A hotel giant’s step to add brand value

4/6/2012 7:34:00 AM

One major global chain this week introduced a great new tool for franchisees at a time when many have begun to question the value of brands.

Turning around a hotel’s culture in 5 steps

4/6/2012 7:22:00 AM

A successful hotel culture can drive profits and create loyalty, but it takes a strong staff of superstars to ensure a hotel is always functioning at its best.

Travelhorizons report offers new insight on US

4/6/2012 7:14:00 AM

The report provides current perceptions of travel among U.S. adults through the Travel Sentiment Index(TM) (TSI).

China Lodging Q1 RevPAR up 9%

4/6/2012 7:01:00 AM

In the first quarter, China Lodging opened 36 new hotels, including nine leased-and-operated hotels and 27 franchised-and-managed hotels.

5 things to know: 5 April 2012

4/5/2012 10:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• KSL Capital offers $6.25 per share for Great Wolf
• FelCor agrees to sell six hotels for $103m
• IHG taps Larry Light as chief brand officer
• Wyndham’s Danziger discusses global growth
• Virgin Hotels expected to begin Chicago development in May

IHG taps ex-McDonald's marketer for branding

4/5/2012 9:51:00 AM

The hiring of Larry Light builds on the company’s strategy of developing and nurturing a powerful portfolio of brands, including the recent launches of Even Hotels and Hualuxe Hotels and Resorts.

Negative meetings rhetoric back in spotlight

4/5/2012 9:00:00 AM

More reports of lavish spending in Las Vegas—this time from the federal government—couldn’t come at a worse time for the U.S. Travel Association, which just last week embarked on a 20,000-mile nationwide bus tour.

Wyndham’s focus shifts outside US

4/5/2012 8:33:00 AM

The hotel group’s pipeline comprises 40% of projects outside the U.S., President and CEO Eric Danziger said.

Future of the industry: What would you bet on?

4/5/2012 8:29:00 AM

If $1 million dollars landed in your lap and you were forced to invest it in something related to the hotel industry, what would it be?

Shah: Hotel industry ready for savvy investors

4/5/2012 7:19:00 AM

As performance metrics align, Noble Investment Group CEO Mit Shah sees "exceptional" opportunities for hotel investors who have solid expansion plans in place.

FelCor sells 6 hotels for $103m

4/5/2012 7:13:00 AM

FelCor Lodging Trust Incorporated has agreed to sell six non-strategic hotels for $103.0 million, in the aggregate, to an undisclosed buyer.

Sustainability goes mainstream

4/5/2012 7:06:00 AM

ESG reporting is gaining steam, helping investors understand non-financial information as it relates to sustainability on an organizational level.

5 things to know: 4 April 2012

4/4/2012 9:59:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Danziger dishes on Howard Johnson refresh
• Occupancies up in major markets for holiday weekend
• Radisson survey: Nearly half of Americans pass on vacation time
• Google: 72% of marketers say attribution leads to better budgeting
• Flash sales get mixed reviews from global hoteliers

Wyndham ‘opening doors’ for franchisees

4/4/2012 9:52:00 AM

Wyndham’s President and CEO Eric Danziger discussed a number of new initiatives during the brand's global conference, including new brand websites and mobile platforms designed to drive value to franchisees.

Noble on the move for transient-driven hotels

4/4/2012 9:43:00 AM

Noble Investment Group CEO Mit Shah said the company plans to sell some of its 45 assets as it places its focus on markets with universities and medical research facilities.

Howard Johnson refresh rife with nostalgia

4/4/2012 9:28:00 AM

Wyndham’s iconic Howard Johnson brand will undergo a refresh that leverages its place within the pantheon of American travel, said President and CEO Eric Danziger.

JHM looks to grow portfolio in US and India

4/4/2012 9:05:00 AM

JHM Hotels started as a small family business venture with one hotel 39 years ago. Now with 42 hotels in its portfolio, executives of the company are enthusiastic about major opportunities for global growth.

RevPAR growth picking up across South Africa

4/4/2012 7:36:00 AM

The last four months showed double-digit improvements in occupancy and RevPAR.

New marketing campaign for Microtel by Wyndham

4/3/2012 12:33:00 PM

The Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham brand announced Tuesday, at the second global Wyndham Hotel Group conference, its rebranding strategy designed to grow awareness and drive business to franchisees.

5 things to know: 3 April 2012

4/3/2012 10:05:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Fairmont Raffles appoints new president, COO
• Carlson Rezidor, Bestech Hospitalities partner to develop in India
• New borrowing in CMBS market
• Eden Roc sues Marriott for $75m over mismanagement of hotel
• Investors deem university towns a hot commodity

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

4/3/2012 9:08:00 AM

Brands share their European expansion strategies in this roundup of hotel news from Europe.

Investors give college towns high marks

4/3/2012 8:15:00 AM

With the recession still fresh in their minds, hotel investors are drawn to cities with a college or university because of the steady local demand.

US Comp Set Study analyzes 30,000 comp sets

4/3/2012 7:14:00 AM

The U.S. Comp Set Study found there is a direct correlation between the number of comp sets a property has and their RevPAR performance.

Meeting planning sets savvy new standards

4/3/2012 7:08:00 AM

Gone are the days of conventional conferences. Hotels are reinventing their meeting spaces with updated technology and innovative operations to attract a younger crowd.

CMBS market getting back on its feet

4/3/2012 7:04:00 AM

New borrowing is taking place and loan delinquency rates are the lowest they have been in 12 months, but there still could be serious issues down the road, according to experts.

Carlson Rezidor, Bestech to develop in India

4/2/2012 3:07:00 PM

Carlson Rezidor on Monday announced a strategic partnership with Bestech Hospitalities to develop 49 Park Inn by Radisson hotels in north and central India.

Fairmont Raffles appoints new president, COO

4/2/2012 10:55:00 AM

Fairmont Raffles Hotels International announced today the appointment of Michael Glennie as president and chief operating officer.

5 things to know: 2 April 2012

4/2/2012 9:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Atlantic City hoteliers betting big on $2.4b Revel resort
• Visa: Travel spend climbs to pre-recession levels
• Expedia files formal Google complaint to EU regulators
• Downward trend continues for French hotel industry
• Fixed hotel leases a thing of the past

HHM in deal-chasing mode

4/2/2012 9:38:00 AM

Good deals are to be had in every market, but it takes a lot of hustle to lock in on them, said Hersha Hospitality Management’s Naveen Kakarla.

Brands vs. owners: Who knows best?

4/2/2012 7:51:00 AM

Tension often arises between hotel brands and owners. But who knows best? A panel of asset managers and brand representatives recently tried to settle the score.

Embarking upon the customer journey

4/2/2012 7:15:00 AM

The customer is always right. Knowing this, it’s important that staff members take the customer journey to understand guest experience and help solve emerging issues.

Fixed hotel leases a thing of the past

4/2/2012 7:11:00 AM

A lot can happen over the course of a 20-year lease agreement. That’s why owners and operators are adopting a more flexible lease structure in Europe.

Atlantic City market betting big on Revel

4/2/2012 7:02:00 AM

Revel, a $2.4-billion sprawling beachfront resort in Atlantic City, marks its “preview opening” Monday, and nearby hoteliers hope it will help kick-start the destination’s comeback.

5 things to know: 30 March 2012

3/30/2012 9:49:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Institutional investors eye select-service hotels
• Brands target lucrative LGBT market
• NCAA Tournament hotels grab big increases in key metrics
• STR: US hotels see uptick in week ending 24 March
• Brands mark Kenya as development hotspot

Training metrics gauge impact

3/30/2012 8:42:00 AM

Holding trainings for staff is important, but understanding the impact, effect and outcome of those training events through training metrics helps manage overall training productivity.

US hotel results for week ending 24 March

3/30/2012 8:23:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy was up 1.8% to 63.6%; ADR increased 3.8% to $106.51; and RevPAR was up 5.7% to $67.77.

Final Four a slam dunk for host-city hotels

3/30/2012 7:50:00 AM

My bracket might be busted, but hotel markets hosting the NCAA Men’s basketball championship tournament are reaping tremendous success.

Hoteliers differ when casting the LGBT net

3/30/2012 7:33:00 AM

Major chains are marketing to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender travelers with strategies that are creating welcoming environments.

Investors eyeing select-service hotels

3/30/2012 7:18:00 AM

Institutional investors, traditionally focused on full service and upscale hotels, are now entering the market, adopting select service portfolios as part of their holdings.

Kickin’ Apps: March’s top hotel apps

3/30/2012 7:03:00 AM

This month’s app roundup includes SPG, CardMunch, Hipmunk, Find Pet Friendly Hotels and Room 77.

Shareholders pressure Red Lion to explore sale

3/29/2012 10:33:00 AM

Red Lion Hotels Corporation is exploring “strategic alternatives” to increase shareholder value, including the potential sale of the company. The move comes after weeks of pressure from shareholders.

5 things to know: 29 March 2012

3/29/2012 10:20:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Red Lion exploring ‘strategic alternatives’
• Inland American building an upper-upscale hotel portfolio
• Survey: Business travel on the rise
• 2012 an attractive year for repositioning assets
• Travel company CEOs press White House for more initiatives

Canada performance for week ending 24 March

3/29/2012 9:59:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the Canadian hotel industry’s occupancy ended the week with a 1.2% increase to 60.6%; its ADR rose 2.1% to $124.22 Canadian dollars; and its RevPAR was up 3.3% to $75.24 Canadian dollars.

Inland American seeking upper-upscale deals

3/29/2012 9:53:00 AM

The REIT is looking to rebalance its portfolio to take advantage of rising group business and a low supply of upper-upscale hotels.

Keys to successfully reposition a hotel

3/29/2012 9:36:00 AM

With renovation financing slowly returning and brands clamping down on CapEx requirements, the opportunity to purchase, renovate and rebrand is attractive.

Luxury hotels top weekly increases

3/29/2012 9:16:00 AM

The luxury segment’s ADR rose 8.3% to $286.16; its RevPAR grew 9.9% to $225.02; and its occupancy increased 1.5% to 78.6%.

Leven blends hotel, gaming into success story

3/29/2012 8:54:00 AM

Three years into a stint as the president of Las Vegas Sands, hotel-industry icon Mike Leven is overseeing the integration of hospitality mindsets.

Chennai growth stimulates travel

3/29/2012 8:32:00 AM

With a growing business sector and high-end hotels being built in the area, Chennai is proving to be a hub for domestic and international tourists.

Red Lion to explore 'strategic alternatives'

3/29/2012 7:02:00 AM

Red Lion Hotels' board of directors has authorized Bank of America Merrill Lynch to explore strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value.

LV Sands continues quest for growth

3/28/2012 10:17:00 AM

The Las Vegas-based integrated resort company is looking for well-defined opportunities in the U.S. as it continues its growth in Asia, according to president and COO Mike Leven.

As Pinterest grows, hoteliers begin to follow

3/28/2012 9:57:00 AM

Hotels see an opportunity to share their personality on Pinterest, the latest social-media platform, which grew its number of users by 52% from January to February.

5 things to know: 28 March 2012

3/28/2012 9:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Pricing power returns for hotels
• Inland American acquires California Marriott for $112.7m
• Leven: US presents development challenge for LV Sands
• Spanish hoteliers concerned about economic volatility
• Hotels showing interest in Pinterest

Pricing power becomes evident in hotel metrics

3/28/2012 9:33:00 AM

Revenue managers shift their pricing strategies during high-demand periods, and data trackers expect ADR to drive the recovery at least through 2013.

Savvy pricing strategies mitigate risks

3/28/2012 9:17:00 AM

As the hotel industry continues its economic recovery, pricing strategies—optimizing channel mix, knowing segmentation and creating long-term goals—will help increase profitability.

Spain’s hoteliers expect stable Easter holiday

3/28/2012 8:41:00 AM

Spain’s key Easter holiday period, a bellwether of summer performance, is expected to be strong, although hoteliers are concerned about the long-term impact of economic volatility.

A turbulent economy introduces uncertainty

3/28/2012 7:42:00 AM

Uncertain and inconsistent hotel forecasting has hoteliers wondering what will be the new normal as the economy grows and adapts.

Aloft aims for 70th hotel in 2013

3/27/2012 11:25:00 AM

Conversions and adaptive reuse projects enhance global growth as Aloft brand spreads “style at a steal” to new markets worldwide.

5 things to know: 27 March 2012

3/27/2012 9:34:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Leap day aids global hotel bookings
• Valencia eyes growth with Lone Star concept
• De Vere to grow Village brand via ground-up construction
• Inland American/DiamondRock close portfolio deal
• AmericInn opens first new-build project in two years

De Vere to build 15-18 new Village hotels

3/27/2012 9:09:00 AM

With a new leader at the helm and committed owners backing expansion, De Vere Group is looking to grow its Village brand by adding 15 to 18 ground-up constructions within the next few years.

HGI refresh will be complete in 2013

3/27/2012 8:49:00 AM

Hilton Garden Inn’s “Project Grow” is a lobby-focused refresh that includes the addition of a bar as well as a more light and airy feel.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

3/27/2012 8:41:00 AM

Included in this wrap-up of MEA news: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, saw the biggest pipeline room growth in February; Al Faisal has plans to double the size of its hotel holdings; and Dubai’s green initiative gains steam.

Recovery leads to new roadside hotel concept

3/27/2012 7:04:00 AM

Valencia Group is developing Lone Star Court just outside Austin, Texas—the first of a new boutique concept with plans to spread across the Southeast U.S.

8 keys for successful hotel work teams

3/27/2012 6:57:00 AM

Creating innovative business ideas involves establishing a group of like-minded employees who will create magic for hoteliers.

5 things to know: 26 March 2012

3/26/2012 10:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hotels struggle with bandwidth issues
• Invesco buys Holiday Inn Eindhoven for €22.5 million
• Panelists at Hunter discuss best operating strategies
• Pandox: Fundamentals more important than branding
• Australia, New Zealand hotels struggle for rate parity

Strong operations key to Pandox’s success

3/26/2012 9:31:00 AM

Brands? Pandox AB’s Anders Nissen can take them or leave them. What’s most important to him is strong, solid operations that maximize the value of every asset.

Asset managers share experiences, concerns

3/26/2012 9:06:00 AM

A panel of hotel asset managers at the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference discussed the distinction between an asset manager and a hotel management team.

Thriving Brazil attracts investor interest

3/26/2012 7:14:00 AM

Surging domestic demand and seminal international events are dramatically boosting the performance of Brazil’s hotel industry, creating an attractive environment for growth.

Juggling connectivity cost and consumer demand

3/26/2012 6:51:00 AM

With guests carrying more devices, providing adequate bandwidth is key. Sources said guests are more willing to pay for a service that works than one that leaves them lagging.

Sustainability showcase

3/23/2012 3:22:00 PM

Brands work to improve franchising for owners

3/23/2012 10:17:00 AM

Lack of financing has changed aspects of franchising today. Executives of major franchising companies shared what they have done to help franchisees stay afloat.

5 things to know: 23 March 2012

3/23/2012 10:10:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hunter panelists address property-level concerns
• Nashville hotels capitalize on March Madness
• Relationships key to negotiating impact-policy protection
• Meliá Hotels International sees 14% drop in asset value
• Analyst: Priceline shares could hit $1,000

Experts share key management selection tips

3/23/2012 9:48:00 AM

Choosing, negotiating and living with a management company can be a daunting task for many owners, but experts at the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference outlined critical factors owners should consider before signing on the dotted line.

Spring break hotel markets: Winners and losers

3/23/2012 9:35:00 AM

Which top spring break hotel markets capitalized on the sun-soaked frenzy? Read on for my lists of winners and losers.

Communication eases impact policy concerns

3/23/2012 8:16:00 AM

Impact policies can be a Catch-22: While hoteliers understand brand growth is important to driving demand, additional hotels of the same brand often take years to be absorbed by a market.

Hyatt kick-starts growth of quirky Andaz brand

3/23/2012 7:45:00 AM

The boutique-inspired brand, which varies from one property to the next, is expected to see its portfolio double within the next three to four years.

US hotel results for week ending 17 March

3/23/2012 7:22:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy was up 2.2% to 65.8%; ADR increased 4.7% to $107.15; and RevPAR was up 7% to $70.51.

The demise of RDAs promise new opportunities

3/23/2012 7:02:00 AM

The end of redevelopment agencies in California presents many challenges but also new opportunities to harness new net revenue.

5 things to know: 22 March 2012

3/22/2012 10:12:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: San Francisco leads US monthly increases
• Hunter: Funds available for hotel development, investment
• CoStar roundup: Industry will continue trending upward
• Pittsburgh market setting occupancy records
• Tingo automatically rebooks rooms as rates drop

Middle East/Africa hotel results for February

3/22/2012 10:02:00 AM

In February, the region’s occupancy jumped 13.3% to 62.6%; its ADR decreased 6.8% to $172.01; and its RevPAR was up 5.6% to $107.74.

Hotel financing available for right borrowers

3/22/2012 9:55:00 AM

Many U.S.-based lenders are wary of financing for construction and international lending, but funding is available for borrowers with the right business plans.

Europe hotel results for February

3/22/2012 9:52:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, Europe's occupancy decreased 0.4% to 58%; its ADR went down 1.9% to $129.32; and its RevPAR fell 2.3% to $74.95.

Asia/Pacific hotel results for February

3/22/2012 9:45:00 AM

In year-over-year measurements, the Asia/Pacific region’s occupancy increased 3.6% to 66.5%; its ADR increased 2.8% to $145.92; and its RevPAR was up 6.5% to $97.08.

Canada performance for week ending 17 March

3/22/2012 9:40:00 AM

Among the provinces, Newfoundland reported the only double-digit occupancy increase, up 10.9% to 65.5%.

Americas hotel results for February

3/22/2012 9:29:00 AM

The Americas region reported a 3.1% increase in occupancy to 57.7%; a 3.8% gain in ADR to $106.53; and 7% jump in RevPAR to $61.49.

Deal experts talk acquisition strategy

3/22/2012 9:19:00 AM

Cash-flowing properties and assets located in strong markets make for sound investment opportunities, panelists said this week at the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference.

Nashville hotels report strong weekly results

3/22/2012 9:13:00 AM

Nashville led major U.S. hotel markets with the largest increases in both occupancy and RevPAR for the week ending 17 March, according to STR.

JLLH: Select-service deals likely to double

3/22/2012 9:08:00 AM

A steady flow of capital is expected to continue in the hotel real-estate market in 2012, with increasing investor interest in select-service transactions, according to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels.

US hotel performance for February

3/22/2012 8:46:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 3.5% to 57.4%, its ADR was up 4% to $103.18 and its RevPAR increased 7.7% to $59.21.

Leisure demand drives Frankfurt development

3/22/2012 8:32:00 AM

The German banking powerhouse is welcoming new additions to its hotel market as international travelers flock to the city in record numbers.

A well-trained staff leads to greater ROI

3/22/2012 7:56:00 AM

Training your staff properly and setting distinct guidelines helps generate revenue while maintaining high standards.

5 things to know: 21 March 2012

3/21/2012 10:07:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hunter closes on positive notes
• Hoteliers bid adieu as Holidex checks out
• Hotels.com IDs top destinations, price points
• HIL shows confidence in hotel business activity
• February snowfall boosts winter resort locations

Hotel execs optimistic but fear the unknown

3/21/2012 10:03:00 AM

A panel of hotel industry presidents at the 2012 Hunter Hotel Investment Conference shared their forecasts for hotel performance, the economy and worrisome issues that could arise this year.

San Francisco hotels lead February increases

3/21/2012 9:44:00 AM

The market recorded the largest increases in ADR (16.1%) and RevPAR (20.5%) among the top 25 U.S. markets during February, according to data from STR.

Corcoran sees bright future for hotels

3/21/2012 9:34:00 AM

During his keynote address at the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference, FelCor Lodging Trust’s chairman Tom Corcoran said hoteliers must be confident pushing rates as recovery spreads across the sector.

Hoteliers bid adieu as Holidex checks out

3/21/2012 8:57:00 AM

As IHG continues its methodical replacement of the iconic central reservations system, hoteliers reflect on the impact Holidex had on their careers and the industry.

Group business regains its mojo

3/21/2012 8:41:00 AM

Data presentations at the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference indicate an increase in demand and rate for group business and continued records set for overall demand.

Hotel guest satisfaction scores raise stakes

3/21/2012 8:26:00 AM

Hotel companies that focus on guest satisfaction are less likely to see their customer bases erode in this mature and competitive market.

US hotel industry nears long-term growth rate

3/20/2012 1:33:00 PM

The outlook for the U.S. hotel industry improved slightly during February, according to e-forecasting.com’s Hotel Industry Leading indicator.

5 things to know: 20 March 2012

3/20/2012 10:07:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hoteliers, economist disagree at Hunter conference
• TravelClick: Online bookings continue to rise
• Digital sales success centered on content
• Travelers: Connectivity more important than breakfast
• Renewed CMBS lending on Wall Street

Economist warns hoteliers to move with caution

3/20/2012 9:07:00 AM

Although the U.S. continues to show signs of improvement, hoteliers should take news of lower unemployment rates and rising consumer confidence with a grain of salt, according to Economist Rajeev Dhawan.

Mixed expectations for Europe’s hotel industry

3/20/2012 8:37:00 AM

Six hotel-industry executives said that while there is reason for optimism, the hotel industry has a long way to go before it can be classified in recovery mode.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

3/20/2012 8:24:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: STR Global forecasts RevPAR gains for top Asian markets; IHG launches new brand in China; and online travel has the potential to grow in some parts of the region.

Content is king in hotel digital sales

3/20/2012 8:18:00 AM

There’s more than one way to target a potential guest online. Experts shared their tips Monday during TTI’s Optimising Digital Sales conference in London.

Sleeping in haute couture, from Paris to Dubai

3/20/2012 7:30:00 AM

A wave of hotel brands inspired by timeless fashion designers is rolling through key gateway cities throughout the world.

Driving hotel leadership at the local level

3/20/2012 6:58:00 AM

While organizations exist to represent hospitality professionals on a national level, there remains a dearth of associations at the local level. Here are some easy tips to get one off the ground.

5 things to know: 19 March 2012

3/19/2012 10:30:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IHG launches Hualuxe, but will it resonate?
• PKF forecasts 5.8% RevPAR boost in 2012
• Pebblebrook bullish on sector’s near-term prospects
• Exchange rates are key concern for hoteliers
• European bookings through OTAs up nearly 20%

Q&A with Mövenpick Jean Gabriel Pérès

3/19/2012 10:30:00 AM

Jean Gabriel Pérès, president and CEO of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, discussed the keys to the hotel operator’s success during a break at IHIF.

Strong GMs key to Mövenpick’s success

3/19/2012 10:22:00 AM

A hotel is an incredibly expensive vehicle that delivers memorable guest experiences. As such, Mövenpick’s Jean Gabriel Pérès ensures the right people are in the driver’s seat.

Europe hotel pipeline for February

3/19/2012 10:08:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 863 hotels totaling 140,084 rooms, according to the February STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Will IHG’s Hualuxe resonate?

3/19/2012 9:56:00 AM

IHG announced their new Chinese-targeted Hualuxe brand weeks after Asian real-estate developers issued a stark warning to the global chains at IHIF.

PKF projects strong 2012

3/19/2012 8:52:00 AM

PKF Hospitality Research, LLC forecasts that the RevPAR for U.S. hotels will rise 5.8% in 2012, the result of a 1.6% increase in occupancy and a 4.1% gain in ADR.

Bortz: Pricing power returning for hotels

3/19/2012 8:45:00 AM

Pebblebrook’s top executive sees a strong future ahead for the hotel industry.

Middle East/Africa hotel pipeline for February

3/19/2012 8:40:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 498 hotels totaling 134,893 rooms, according to the February STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Asia/Pacific hotel pipeline for February

3/19/2012 8:36:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,536 hotels totaling 364,595 rooms, according to the February STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Exchange rates, visas affect European hotels

3/19/2012 8:23:00 AM

As exchange rates fluctuate, experts look at visa offerings, online queries and tighter booking windows as key components to a recovery in Europe.

Are you getting your fair share?

3/19/2012 7:42:00 AM

Hoteliers who know their competition, understand their financial priorities and create a plan of attack will not only get their fair share of revenues but their competitors’ shares as well.

IHG targets Chinese consumer base with Hualuxe

3/19/2012 6:11:00 AM

The new brand is aimed at three demand drivers: demand for an upscale international brand focused on Chinese customs; the domestic China opportunity; and capturing outbound trips from China.

5 things to know: 16 March 2011

3/16/2012 10:25:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• White House extends ADA pool-lift deadline
• Simple formula shows pricing impact on GOP
• C./S. America and Mexico/Caribbean pipelines
• Trivago: European hotel prices on the rise
• Buyers push to acquire hotel assets

Green beer and St. Patrick’s Day hotel results

3/16/2012 9:44:00 AM

St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, which means cities throughout the U.S. can expect more revelers at parades and other celebrations. But how does the calendar shift affect hotels?

Stock update: Host, DiamondRock, Great Wolf

3/16/2012 9:38:00 AM

In this update of public hotel company news: Great Wolf is being acquired; DiamondRock closes on a hotel loan; and Host prices senior notes.

Wholesalers provide distribution challenge

3/16/2012 9:10:00 AM

Three revenue-management specialists discuss the issues they face when dealing with wholesalers beyond online-travel agencies.

Caribbean/Mexico hotel pipeline for February

3/16/2012 9:07:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 128 hotels totaling 17,616 rooms, according to the February STR Construction Pipeline Report.

C./S. America pipeline for February

3/16/2012 8:58:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 213 hotels totalling 30,657 rooms, according to the February STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

US hotel results for week ending 10 March

3/16/2012 8:38:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy was up 1.9% to 62.1%; ADR increased 3.6% to $104.65; and RevPAR was up 5.5% to $64.95.

2012 Hotel Data Conference registration opens

3/16/2012 7:36:00 AM

Early registration for the fourth annual Hotel Data Conference, hosted by STR and HotelNewsNow.com and presented by Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, is open.

Rate pricing formula benefits the bottom line

3/16/2012 7:07:00 AM

With a simple formula, you can clarify the risks associated with GOP, allowing all parties to have a common starting point to make smart pricing decisions.

Communicating with guests with disabilities

3/16/2012 6:55:00 AM

A well-trained staff able to effectively communicate with visually- and hearing-impaired customers is crucial to providing all hotel guests with the same quality of experience.

Presentation: How strong is your comp set?

3/15/2012 9:56:00 AM

Caitlyn Hillyard of STR Analytics presented this comp set overview Thursday during a Tour de Data webinar.

5 things to know: 15 March 2012

3/15/2012 9:45:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Look-to-book ratios becoming unsustainable
• Upper-upscale tops US hotel performance
• New survey reveals guest loyalty by brand
• Fairmont San Francisco sold for $200m
• Fuel costs will not greatly impact hotel demand

US upper-upscale hotels top weekly performance

3/15/2012 8:43:00 AM

The upper-upscale segment reported the largest increases in ADR (4.5%) and RevPAR (6.6%) among the U.S. chain-scale segments, according to STR.

Canada performance for week ending 10 March

3/15/2012 8:37:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry’s occupancy ended the week with a 2.3% increase to 59.8%; its ADR rose 4.4% to $133.63 canadian dollars; and its RevPAR was up 6.7% to $79.87 canadian dollars.

Emerging markets need ‘affordable innovation’

3/15/2012 8:28:00 AM

Hotel companies must find creative ways to build and offer products more cheaply to guests to drive volume in emerging markets, said economist Daniel Thorniley during a keynote at IHIF.

ADA requires equal access for everyone

3/15/2012 8:22:00 AM

Hoteliers are asked to make “reasonable modifications” to their standard policies when accommodating a person with a disability.

Hotel systems weighed down by booking requests

3/15/2012 7:39:00 AM

The look-to-book ratio in January was a staggering 4,500-to-1, and hotel central reservations systems are struggling to keep up.

Hoteliers toil to capture mobile demand

3/15/2012 7:31:00 AM

Hoteliers who market the mobile channel and use it to engage with guests are reaping the biggest benefits.

Comp sets raise RevPAR indexes

3/15/2012 7:15:00 AM

Hoteliers who try to understand their strongest competitors operate their properties more effectively, according to a comp set study by STR Analytics.

Hotel demand not impacted by oil price hikes

3/15/2012 7:03:00 AM

As long as oil prices increase slowly, as is forecast, hotel operators needn’t worry about demand suffering.

5 things to know: 14 March 2012

3/14/2012 9:55:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR Global: RevPAR gains forecast for top Asian markets
• Starwood plans aggressive growth for W brand
• Hotel Price Index: Global hotel prices up 4% during 2011
• New ADA rules require more accessible reservations systems
• Pool lift deadline stands for hoteliers

Balazs criticizes owner, operator divide

3/14/2012 9:45:00 AM

A focus on scale and financials has driven a wedge between hotel owners and operators, said André Balazs. The result is bland product and forgettable guest experiences.

London revenue managers expect big year

3/14/2012 9:35:00 AM

London hoteliers have a lot to look forward to with a number of unique events taking place in the city this year—as long as sound revenue-management practices pay off.

ADA requires accessible reservation systems

3/14/2012 9:02:00 AM

Understanding your guests’ needs for accessible rooms and features at your hotel is becoming increasingly important for managing reservations systems.

STR announces Database Operations Center

3/14/2012 8:47:00 AM

The company is making moves designed to enhance census and pipeline content.

Key Asia markets to see RevPAR growth in '12

3/14/2012 8:37:00 AM

STR Global is forecasting positive RevPAR growth for Beijing, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney during 2012.

Rapport builds strong relationships

3/14/2012 8:03:00 AM

Show your staff how to build rapport with customers and each other, and they’ll do their jobs effectively and successfully.

Hunter panelists to assay the past and future

3/14/2012 7:46:00 AM

As hoteliers prepare to head to Atlanta for next week’s Hunter Hotel Investment Conference, several moderators shared the issues panelists will discuss to help attendees move forward.

Harlequin riding the momentum in Caribbean

3/14/2012 6:56:00 AM

After a year of occupancies in the 80s and rates starting at $650 at its first resort in St. Lucia, Harlequin Hotels & Resorts is looking to capitalize with plans for four more properties in the Caribbean.

US hotel industry activity slows: HIP

3/13/2012 2:16:00 PM

Business activity in the U.S. hotel industry declined in February, according to the latest reading of e-forecasting.com’s Hotel Industry's Pulse index, or HIP.

5 things to know: 13 March 2012

3/13/2012 10:09:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Apollo to acquire Great Wolf water park chain
• STR: New York leads US markets in hotel construction
• Choice, IHG seek growth in Europe by conversion
• Facebook’s Timeline offers opportunities to marketers
• Engineer cites structural issues in Harmon hearings

Choice eyes growth by conversion in Europe

3/13/2012 9:34:00 AM

Europe represents the “single biggest opportunity” for growth outside the U.S. for Choice Hotels International, according to President and CEO Steve Joyce.

IHG shifts focus in Europe

3/13/2012 9:23:00 AM

After restructuring its team in Europe, executives at IHG adopted a more flexible approach to development that emphasizes conversions in key countries and cities.

STR: US hotel pipeline for February

3/13/2012 8:45:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,716 projects totaling 290,989 rooms, according to the February 2012 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

Global Hotel Pulse: Americas news

3/13/2012 8:27:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: Data shows the region continues its recovery; Mandarin Oriental makes a splash in Atlanta; and Hilton and Orbitz go head to head.

ADA standards call recreation areas into focus

3/13/2012 7:56:00 AM

Revisions to the Americans with Disabilities Act, which go into effect Thursday, are bringing hotel recreation areas into focus for the first time.

Facebook Timeline advantageous to hoteliers

3/13/2012 7:11:00 AM

Facebook Timeline, mandatory for all businesses on the social network, provides hoteliers a variety of nuanced ways to showcase and customize their brands.

Hotel financing picture reveals optimism

3/13/2012 6:57:00 AM

Growth in key operating metrics and hotel revenue bodes well for hospitality financing.

Hotel brand growth

3/12/2012 3:27:00 PM

5 things to know: 12 March 2012

3/12/2012 9:52:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• WSJ: Iconic Essex House in NYC on the market
• Potentially costly ADA changes go into effect Thursday
• Investors more confident in hotel recovery
• Groupon Travel lacks value, says IHG VP
• Job creation in US travel segment outpaces economy

Hotel Investors Gauge Q4 results

3/12/2012 8:09:00 AM

Investors and lenders are showing growing signs of optimism, according to the most recent Hotel Investors Gauge.

ADA changes and your hotel: A special report

3/12/2012 8:07:00 AM

New revisions to the Americans with Disabilities Act go into effect 15 March. Will you be in compliance?

Distribution experts share key to success

3/12/2012 7:30:00 AM

For all its complexity, finding the right hotel channel mix comes down to one simple factor, which a panel of distribution experts shared during IHIF.

The discerning consumer

3/12/2012 7:22:00 AM

Changing consumer habits and individual preferences are creating opportunities and challenges in the hotel industry.

New ADA changes could prove costly

3/12/2012 7:14:00 AM

New ADA provisions, which go into effect Thursday, could prove costly to hoteliers. But “safe harbor” does provide some protection.

Lessons learned from the market shift

3/12/2012 7:04:00 AM

Coming out of 2011, people were talking about a paradigm shift and new environment in purchasing properties. Did everything we know about buying hotels—and financing those deals—change?

5 things to know: 9 March 2012

3/9/2012 9:48:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
•    China’s domestic economy chains report Q4 earnings
•    LaSalle acquires Hotel Palomar in Washington for $143.8m
•    STR preliminary February results show RevPAR gains
•    Retargeting ads yield big returns for hotels
•    US jobs grew by 227,000 in February

China’s domestic chains undeterred by slow Q4

3/9/2012 9:42:00 AM

Despite decreases in performance metrics in Q4, 7 Days Group Holdings Limited, China Lodging Group and Home Inns & Hotels Management will continue their aggressive plans for growth in 2012.

Mexico hoteliers aim to diversify clientele

3/9/2012 9:36:00 AM

While luxury brands have always maintained a strong presence in Mexico, developers are more closely exploring trends such as experience-based travel, sustainable development and mixed-use projects.

Hoteliers rake in returns through retargeting

3/9/2012 9:24:00 AM

Sources say retargeting campaigns—serving customers specific ads based on sites they visited—are more effective than traditional push advertising. However, privacy laws are calling the practice into question.

Checking out: 39 insights from IHIF

3/9/2012 9:10:00 AM

With a few cheeky Brits provoking some thoughtful discussion, the International Hotel Investment Forum was chock-full of interesting tips and tidbits.

Revenue up 7.9% in 2010/2011 snowsport season

3/9/2012 8:59:00 AM

Average gross revenue was up in all six geographical regions of the U.S., showing performance consistency across the U.S. ski industry.

U.S. hotel industry continues upward trend

3/9/2012 8:53:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week of 26 February to 3 March, occupancy was up 2.3%; ADR increased 3.5%; and RevPAR was up 5.8%.

Hoteliers: Mexico is ‘full of opportunities’

3/8/2012 10:14:00 AM

Last year, more than 22 million travelers went to Mexico, breaking a record set in 2008, said panelists at the 2012 Mexico Hotel and Tourism Investment Conference.

5 things to know: 8 March 2012

3/8/2012 9:56:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HPT will put $165m into renovating Staybridge, Candlewood Suites
• IHIF: Asian real-estate investors’ wake-up call to western brands
• TravelClick: Group demand driving occupancy, transient driving ADR
• STR releases Canada, US weekly performance results
• BWI: Business travelers feel guilt when traveling for work

Baird/STR Stock Index up 1.1% in February

3/8/2012 8:54:00 AM

While the ever-changing economic landscape may keep some investors at bay, STR's Randy Smith hopes to see continued interest with the steady performance of the industry.

San Francisco reports 14.5% growth in ADR

3/8/2012 8:50:00 AM

Overall for the week of 26 February to 3 March, the U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy was up 2.3% to 59.9%; ADR increased 3.5% to $102.77; and RevPAR was up 5.8% to $61.56.

La Quinta’s Instant Hold could be hit or miss

3/8/2012 8:36:00 AM

La Quinta on Monday launched a new mobile feature that allows guests to book a room using only a phone number. Experts say time will tell whether the new technology is a hit or miss for the company.

Canada sees ADR, occupancy, RevPAR increases

3/8/2012 8:31:00 AM

In the week ending 3 March, Prince Edward Island jumped 28.9% in occupancy to 44.1%, the largest increase in that metric.

Hoteliers gain confidence in negotiating rates

3/8/2012 8:21:00 AM

When the economy started declining so did corporate hotel rates. But now things are shaping up, and hoteliers are taking an aggressive stance.

Legislative Action Summit educates, informs

3/8/2012 8:14:00 AM

An invigorating and thought-provoking LAS hosted by the AH&LA elucidates the legislative and regulatory issues affecting U.S. hotels.

Asian investors give brands a wake-up call

3/8/2012 8:04:00 AM

The era of Asian investors importing global hotel brands into the region is coming to an end, as is the ubiquitous asset-light operating model, said representatives from two major Asian real-estate developers.

China Lodging plans to add 278 hotels in 2012

3/7/2012 7:51:00 PM

The company opened 201 hotels during 2011, bringing the total hotel count to 639.

5 things to know: 7 March 2012

3/7/2012 10:15:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Correction: STR and STR Global chain-scale lists
• Starwood, Wyndham, others provide updates at IHIF
• WTTC: Travel industry will grow 2.8% in 2012
• Bad website design causes drop in bookings
• Mild winter boosts North American airlines’ on-time arrivals

US brands weigh all-inclusive potential

3/7/2012 10:13:00 AM

Last fall’s announcement by Hard Rock Hotels to convert three properties in Mexico has renewed interest by major U.S. brands. But don’t expect the all-inclusive model in the U.S. anytime soon.

IHIF news roundup

3/7/2012 9:34:00 AM

Several hotel companies released new updates and announcements during the International Hotel Investment Forum.

CEOs answer tough questions about hotel brands

3/7/2012 8:46:00 AM

CBRE’s Simon Johnson didn’t pull any punches during an IHIF general session with CEOs from several of the world’s biggest brand companies.

WTTC: Travel industry will grow 2.8% in 2012

3/7/2012 7:22:00 AM

Travel & Tourism is set for a milestone year as the industry’s direct contribution to the global economy is expected to pass $2 trillion in GDP and 100 million jobs.

Government audits: How to respond

3/7/2012 7:08:00 AM

Being prepared for an audit and maintaining control during the process are important to minimizing the associated fear and stress.

Rise in meetings shape hotels’ recovery

3/7/2012 6:57:00 AM

As the economy continues to improve, cost concerns are falling off for meeting holders, and hotel companies are seeing the benefits.

Strong travel, tourism growth expected in 2012

3/7/2012 4:47:00 AM

The global travel and tourism industry is projected to grow by 2.8% during 2012, marginally faster than the global economy’s pace of 2.5%, the WTTC’s president and CEO told HotelNewsNow.com.

5 things to know: 6 March 2012

3/6/2012 9:49:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR, STR Global release revised chain-scale lists
• Owners share outlook, opinions on global hotel sector
• JLLH: Mexico City hotels to jump 10% in RevPAR in 2012 and 2013
• European hoteliers reveal economic outlook for 2012
• Dedeman Hotels & Resorts launches Dedeman Park brand

Dedeman unveils Dedeman Park brand

3/6/2012 9:01:00 AM

Dedeman Hotels & Resorts International revealed the company’s new Dedeman Park brand, aimed at short-stay business travelers, at a press conference at the Dedeman Hotel Istanbul.

Video: Top HR concerns of 2012

3/6/2012 8:34:00 AM

Attendees at the 6th Annual HR in Hospitality Conference & Expo shared their most pressing HR concerns for the year ahead.

Hotel owners share investment strategies

3/6/2012 8:18:00 AM

A panel of owners shared their opinions and outlooks on the global hotel sector during a general session at the International Hotel Investment Forum.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

3/6/2012 7:20:00 AM

Development and deal activity continued to heat up in Europe during February.

Diligence tops obligations when outsourcing

3/6/2012 7:17:00 AM

Hoteliers must research and audit their vendors when outsourcing any part of their workforce, experts said during the HR in Hospitality Conference & Expo.

Government audits: Get your house in order

3/6/2012 7:09:00 AM

The hospitality industry is on the audit radar of numerous government issues. Here are tips on how to ensure this audit process goes as smoothly as possible.

The black swan Iran has landed on our industry

3/6/2012 7:03:00 AM

Oil prices are up, the turmoil in the Middle East is getting worse and travelers likely will curtail their spending to conserve cash as they plan for the worst.

5 things to know: 5 March 2012

3/5/2012 10:27:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• California hits hotel sales volume record in 2011
• Manhattan hotel investment expected to remain high in 2012
• HR pros share tips on managing unionized hotels
• TripAdvisor launches, then removes, new rating system
• Expedia: Americans more likely to travel within US

Hotels seeing stock prices jump

3/5/2012 9:17:00 AM

Stock-based compensation is likely to see the biggest effect from rising hotel company stock prices, according to analysts.

STR Global: Europe Top 10

3/5/2012 8:29:00 AM

Despite the economic conditions, out of the 157 cities and destinations tracked in Europe, only 15 saw declining demand.

Government audits: What do they want?

3/5/2012 7:20:00 AM

Several U.S. federal and state agencies are stepping up enforcement among all employers, with particular emphasis, in some cases, on the hospitality industry.

Leisure travel strengthens demand rates

3/5/2012 6:52:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry has sustained strong demand growth rates, resulting in record levels of roomnights sold.

5 things to know: 2 March 2012

3/2/2012 9:38:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HVS: European hotel values growing
• Demand for hotel-direct booking up 6.3% in 2011
• How to handle social media in the workplace
• When is it OK to discount rates?
• Hersha acquires Rittenhouse in Philadelphia

Stock update: DiamondRock, Sands, FelCor, more

3/2/2012 9:19:00 AM

In this week’s update of public hotel company news: FelCor says it won’t be buying hotels anytime soon; HPT is planning a renovation push; and Las Vegas Sands is redeeming senior notes.

Talent development key as recovery takes hold

3/2/2012 9:09:00 AM

Talent development was one of the first areas to get cut during the downturn. But now that recovery is taking hold, HR leaders must rebuild the bench to add depth to their employee bases.

HVS: Deal market boosts European hotel values

3/2/2012 8:55:00 AM

Improved trading performance has boosted hotel values across Europe by 2.3% to an average of €220,000 ($290,666) per room, according to HVS London's Hotel Valuation Index.

Social media brings new legal issues to hotels

3/2/2012 7:48:00 AM

Platforms such as Facebook and Twitter introduce several perplexing legal traps and other issues for hoteliers.

STR: US hotel results week ending 25 February

3/2/2012 7:21:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy was up 2.3% to 61%, ADR increased 4.6% to $103.84 and RevPAR was up 6.9% to $63.38.

When it’s right to discount your hotel rates

3/2/2012 7:07:00 AM

Discounting rates can be an effective strategy to show off new offerings or get an edge on a competitor—if timed right and done strategically.

Checking out: The day Chip Conley died

3/2/2012 6:55:00 AM

By the time paramedics got to him, the magnetic founder of Joie de Vivre had no pulse. What did he learn from the near-death experience?

5 things to know: 1 March 2012

3/1/2012 9:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Branson, Missouri, hotels largely unscathed from tornado
• STR releases US, Canada weekly hotel performance results
• European hotels steady despite up-and-down economy
• Attorneys offer more HR legal tips
• Initial US unemployment claims drop

Video: La Quinta execs talk expansion

3/1/2012 9:52:00 AM

La Quinta's Wayne Goldberg and Rajiv Trivedi discussed recent development initiatives and strategies for future expansion at the brand's annual conference.

In Branson, Missouri, the ‘show will go on’

3/1/2012 9:48:00 AM

After a tornado hit the country music resort town Wednesday, staff at the Best Western Center Pointe Inn acted swiftly to get guests transferred to sister properties nearby.

Canada performance for week ending 25 February

3/1/2012 9:19:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry’s occupancy ended the week with a 1.1% decrease to 58.7%, its ADR rose 1.9% to CAD$123.44 and its RevPAR was up 0.8% to CAD$72.47.

FelCor’s focus: Sell some, renovate remaining

3/1/2012 9:08:00 AM

FelCor Lodging Trust has sold nine hotels in the past two years; 16 are on the market, and 14 more will hit the market later this year.

Social, mobile transform guest interaction

3/1/2012 8:51:00 AM

Experts at HSMAI’s Digital Marketing Strategy Conference said the way hotels talk to consumers is changing at an incredibly rapid pace.

Mardi Gras boosts NOLA hotels for second week

3/1/2012 8:39:00 AM

In New Orleans, RevPAR was up 59.6% to $122.72 for the week ending 25 February, compared to an industry average of 6.9%.

HPT might retain Marriott portfolio

3/1/2012 8:33:00 AM

A wide bid/ask spread and a dislocated credit market might force Hospitality Properties Trust to retain its portfolio of 20 Marriott-branded hotels, executives said during the company’s Q4 earnings call.

Europe’s hotels hold steady despite upheaval

3/1/2012 8:13:00 AM

STR Global tells its clients the hotel industry held its own during the up-and-down economic landscape, and the future has some bright spots.

More legal tips for hotel HR professionals

3/1/2012 7:43:00 AM

Retaliation claims are the easiest to allege and the hardest to defend. But HR practitioners shouldn’t feel helpless—especially when they’re armed with the expertise of some of the smartest minds in the discipline.

HPT releases Q4 earnings

2/29/2012 12:23:00 PM

Hospitality Properties Trust notes Q4 increases in occupancy, RevPAR and ADR.

5 things to know: 29 February 2012

2/29/2012 10:14:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• La Quinta enters Colombian hotel market
• SC Hospitality Association president found dead
• Attorneys share legal tips at HR conference
• REITs report Q4 results
• Priceline.com reservations growing fastest among OTAs

Booking attribution becomes top priority

2/29/2012 10:06:00 AM

Experts at the HSMAI Digital Marketing Conference said there is a complex data collection process that can help trace the channels and influences that lead travelers to book.

26 legal tips for hotel HR professionals

2/29/2012 9:20:00 AM

During a general session at the HR in Hospitality Conference, a panel of experts break through the clutter by offering their insight and expertise.

FelCor's RevPAR up 4.8% for Q4, 5.4% for year

2/29/2012 8:59:00 AM

The REIT sold eight hotels for gross proceeds of $138 million in 2011 and is currently marketing 16 non-strategic hotels.

La Quinta, Grupo Tao plan Colombia development

2/29/2012 8:43:00 AM

Executives of La Quinta Inns & Suites signed a deal Tuesday with Colombia-based Grupo Tao for the development and operation of the brand’s first three properties in Colombia.

Switzerland hotels report mixed results

2/29/2012 8:33:00 AM

The latest hotel performance results from STR Global show that, despite a positive trend in the first half of 2011, the country's hotel industry faced a tougher environment during the second half.

PCMA’s hybrid-meeting experiment pays off

2/29/2012 8:23:00 AM

PCMA's 56th annual meeting showed a strong commitment to hybrid (part-virtual) meetings this year.

Kickin’ apps: February’s top hotel apps

2/29/2012 7:13:00 AM

This month’s app roundup includes entries from: JetBlue, AwardWallet, GroundLink, Oh, Ranger! ParkFinder and LodgeNet.

Red Lion reports Q4 and year end results

2/29/2012 6:59:00 AM

Red Lion Hotels Corporation announced Tuesday RevPAR for comparable owned and leased hotels decreased 0.9% year over year.

HSMAI presents top honors at Adrian Awards

2/28/2012 11:57:00 AM

The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) presented the winners of its 55th annual Adrian Awards at the New York Marriott Marquis on Monday night.

IHG launching wellness-themed Even Hotels

2/28/2012 10:05:00 AM

The first EVEN Hotel is scheduled to open next year, and IHG’s goal is to have 100 properties open within the first five years of launch.

5 things to know: 28 February 2012

2/28/2012 9:25:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IHG launches wellness-focused EVEN Hotels brand
• Report: Despite room giveback, London rates will spike for Olympics
• Joie de Vivre’s Conley explains what makes great leaders
• La Quinta execs reveal hotel pipeline
• Abu Dhabi International Airport sees passenger growth in January

La Quinta unveils 2012 pipeline

2/28/2012 9:22:00 AM

The brand has more than 8,000 rooms in development and is looking at growth in Colombia and Mexico and the U.S.

'Heritage' hotels make old buildings new again

2/28/2012 8:12:00 AM

Some of India’s oldest building stock is finding new life as heritage hotels, an emerging accommodations segment that promises travelers unique guest experiences in historical settings.

Conley talks jobs, careers, callings

2/28/2012 7:54:00 AM

The best HR practitioners are those who help employees move from jobs to careers and eventually to callings.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

2/28/2012 7:42:00 AM

Included in this round up of MEA news: ADR and RevPAR grew in the region during January; the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is poised to be the world’s largest hotel; and Jebel Ali acquires a yet-to-be-named beachfront Dubai hotel for more than $100 million.

IHG launches Even Hotels brand

2/28/2012 7:41:00 AM

IHG's latest brand will be focused on health-conscious guests.

Growth on the horizon for Southeast Asia

2/28/2012 7:23:00 AM

Hotels in Southeast Asia have shown resiliency despite significant challenges. And the future outlook is just as promising.

Concord provides development update

2/27/2012 9:33:00 AM

Low construction costs and good financing terms add up to a big development pipeline for Concord Hospitality Enterprises.

5 things to know: 27 February 2012

2/27/2012 9:11:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HVS: European hotel transaction volume up 9% in 2011
• Concord outlines development, conversion pipeline
• Kentucky, Tennessee, Pennsylvania courts side with OTAs
• Reno/Tahoe, Nevada, sees biggest year-over-year price drop
• Best Western to begin Facebook booking

Supertel no longer at risk of Nasdaq delisting

2/27/2012 8:31:00 AM

The $30-million investment in Supertel Hospitality by an Argentinean real-estate company has pushed Supertel’s stock over $1 per share, and the company is no longer in violation of Nasdaq’s minimum closing bid price rule.

Meeting holders willing to spend more in 2012

2/27/2012 8:11:00 AM

The most recent study indicates cost concerns are falling off somewhat and meeting holders are starting to place renewed importance on travel convenience and recreational opportunities at sites.

Hotels acknowledged for employee engagement

2/27/2012 7:54:00 AM

A high level of engagement between executives and employees is a common theme among three of the hotel companies ranked in Fortune Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list.

HVS: European transaction volume up 9% in 2011

2/27/2012 6:45:00 AM

Deal volume in Europe reached €7.1 billion ($9.51 billion) a year ago, but is still well off the 2006 peak, according to HVS' European Hotel Transactions report.

Checking out: The best hotel brands

2/24/2012 9:08:00 AM

I’m a meaningless speck in the hotel industry, but which hotel brands and personalities rise above the rest?

5 things to know: 24 February 2012

2/24/2012 8:46:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Pegasus: Corporate bookings flat, will ramp up in May
• Extended Stay Hotels taps former Starbucks head as CEO
• Brands boost efforts to eliminate underperforming assets
• 6 tips to promote social-media campaign offline
• LHW experiments with removing transaction fees

Stock update: Q4 earnings roundup

2/24/2012 8:37:00 AM

Public companies across the hotel sector reported RevPAR growth during the Q4.

STR: US hotel results week ending 18 February

2/24/2012 7:35:00 AM

In year-over-year comparisons for the week, occupancy was up 1.5% to 59.7%, ADR increased 2.9% to $102.59 and RevPAR was up 4.4% to $61.27.

Select-service GMs an ‘unstoppable force’

2/24/2012 7:15:00 AM

These Jacks and Jills of all trades do everything at the select-service property—and more—with the ability to lift property value in a single day. Here’s some advice on how to let them soar.

Chatwal’s experience key in India expansion

2/24/2012 7:04:00 AM

While many companies struggle to gain a foothold in India, Sant Chatwal is looking to leverage his familiarity in the market as his Chatwal Hotels & Resorts plans 52 new hotels in the country during the next five years.

Brands accelerate removal of low-hanging fruit

2/24/2012 6:57:00 AM

Franchisors are taking an aggressive approach to cleaning up the performance of their brands, even if it puts portfolio growth in jeopardy.

5 things to know: 23 February 2012

2/23/2012 10:04:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• D.K. Shifflet: Americans will travel more but spend less
• Global TripAdvisor survey shows US hoteliers most optimistic
• 3 key consumer behavior trends from Amadeus, PhoCusWright
• JLL: Both lenders, borrowers expect more capital in the market
• A snapshot of the Manhattan hotel market from PwC

Chicago’s hotel rebound gets second wind

2/23/2012 9:42:00 AM

The third largest hotel market in the U.S. has a promising future, but there’s a long way to go before Chicago returns to peak performance levels, according to speakers at STR Analytics’ inaugural Tour de Data event.

UPDATE: Room Key’s marketing on display

2/23/2012 9:07:00 AM

Exit traffic from Brand.com will drive the bulk of Roomkey.com’s visits before a consumer marketing campaign is launched in March. But will it deliver enough eyeballs to compete with the heavyweights?

UK development heats up as big events near

2/23/2012 9:01:00 AM

With the Summer Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee occurring this year, the U.K. is experiencing a surge in hotel development, creating confidence in the country.

MGM leisure bookings nearing record highs

2/23/2012 8:37:00 AM

The Las Vegas-based casino-resort operator sees leisure bookings at levels near 2006 peaks, chairman and CEO Jim Murren said during an earnings call.

New Orleans benefits from Mardi Gras visitors

2/23/2012 8:27:00 AM

New Orleans reported a 38.4% increase in ADR, and its RevPAR jumped 43.3%.

Canada performance for week ending 18 February

2/23/2012 8:15:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry's occupancy ended the week virtually flat with a 0.1% increase.

Hotels get no love on Valentine's Day

2/23/2012 7:10:00 AM

Although the Valentine’s Day weekday effect has been noted in the past by industry experts, it was still surprising to see U.S. hotel performance flat on 14 February.

7 tips to keep guests coming back

2/23/2012 7:00:00 AM

First impressions might be important, but it’s the lasting impression that will keep guests coming back. Here are seven easy tips to make a stay at your property truly unforgettable.

5 things to know: 22 February 2012

2/22/2012 10:01:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• JT Hospitality rebrands to Commune Hotels & Resorts
• Search for South Carolina Hospitality Association exec continues
• TripAdvisor rolls out cost-per-click comparison tool
• Study: Without loyalty programs, OTAs would rule demand
• Dow crosses 13,000 for the first time since May 2008

STR Global: MEA performance for January

2/22/2012 9:23:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa region reported mostly positive performance results in January when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR Global: Europe performance for January

2/22/2012 9:05:00 AM

The European hotel industry posted mostly positive results in year-over-year metrics for January, according to data compiled by STR Global.

Lagging group rates slow hotel ADR recovery

2/22/2012 9:02:00 AM

Group rates negotiated from a “position of weakness” during the past few years could dampen any chance of a return to ADR peak levels for years to come, according to STR’s Jan Freitag.

MGM Vegas Strip hotel RevPAR up 13% in Q4

2/22/2012 9:02:00 AM

Rooms revenue at wholly-owned domestic resorts increased 10%, with a 13% increase in RevPAR at the company’s Las Vegas Strip resorts.

STR Global: Americas performance for January

2/22/2012 8:52:00 AM

The Americas region recorded positive results in the three key performance metrics when reported in U.S. dollars for January, according to data compiled by STR and STR Global.

Economy hotel results boost Accor's earnings

2/22/2012 8:44:00 AM

Revenue for Accor's economy hotels outside of the U.S. rose 5% during 2011.

STR Global: January Asia/Pacific performance

2/22/2012 8:35:00 AM

Hotels in the Asia/Pacific region experienced mixed results in the three key performance metrics for January when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

Conversion business a slow go for Choice

2/22/2012 8:22:00 AM

So far in 2012, Choice Hotels International’s conversion pipeline is relatively flat. However, executives said conversions should pick up throughout the year.

STR: US performance for January

2/22/2012 8:06:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 4.1%, its ADR was up 3.9% and its RevPAR increased 8.1%.

Plan now for '12, '13 school vacation patterns

2/22/2012 6:13:00 AM

School vacation schedules represent a valuable planning tool for anticipating and capitalizing on leisure market opportunities around key holiday periods.

Yotel shifting from airports to city centers

2/22/2012 5:54:00 AM

Executives at the pod-style hotel brand, which has three airport properties in its portfolio, are targeting city-center locations in top 10 markets in Europe, Asia and the United States.

JT Hospitality rebrands to Commune Hotels

2/21/2012 4:31:00 PM

Commune Hotels & Resorts is a result of the merger between Thompson Hotels and Joie de Vivre. The company has more than 30 hotels and eyes international expansion.

5 things to know: 21 February 2012

2/21/2012 9:34:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Travelodge working through debt restructuring
• New Orleans reports largest ADR, RevPAR increases in January
• STR: US had most hotels in January development pipeline
• Choice reports RevPAR boost, slow portfolio growth
• Greece bailout agreement reached Tuesday

New Orleans sees ADR, RevPAR growth in January

2/21/2012 8:40:00 AM

The market’s ADR was up 24.1% to US$145.16, its RevPAR jumped 32.1% to US$87.57 and its occupancy was up 6.5% to 60.3%.

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

2/21/2012 8:28:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 30,002 rooms, according to the January 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for January

2/21/2012 8:15:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 128 hotels, according to the January 2012 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

2/21/2012 7:44:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Visitor arrivals in Hong Kong were up 16.4% in 2011 and the city expects to add 9,000 rooms by 2016; India-based Lemon Tree Hotels launches Lemon Tree Premier.

Hotels boost medical tourism programs

2/21/2012 7:36:00 AM

Medical tourism is becoming a more viable option for those seeking affordable health care around the world, and hoteliers are creating enhanced medical programs that flaunt convenience to consumers.

NYC suburbs reap overflow benefits

2/21/2012 7:20:00 AM

One New Jersey hotelier has intensified concierge services to provide transportation to the train station and help getting theater tickets.

3 social-media timesavers for busy hoteliers

2/21/2012 7:09:00 AM

Search-engine optimization is about doing, but social media is about planning. Here are three helpful tips to help get you started.

Budget brands battle in French food wars

2/21/2012 6:53:00 AM

The rivalry is heating up in the kitchens of rivals Louvre Hotels Group and Accor, as the companies' budget brands battle it out for F+B supremacy.

Choice earnings: US RevPAR up 7.8% in Q4

2/21/2012 6:44:00 AM

Growth remain tough for Choice Hotels International, as the company executed 332 U.S. franchise contracts in 2011 compared to 357 in 2010. Choice has 490 hotels worldwide either under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development.

Travelodge CEO downplays debt restructuring

2/20/2012 5:08:00 PM

It is “business as usual” as Travelodge works through a debt restructuring that could see a potential change in owners, CEO Guy Parsons said in a statement.

5 things to know: 20 February 2012

2/20/2012 9:58:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Business is booming for hotel receivership
• European debt crisis could impact US business travel
• PKF: Negotiations with meeting planners still contentious
• Supertel Hospitality regains NASDAQ compliance
• Dispute continues after Wynn buys out majority stockholder

Portman diving into hotel acquisitions

2/20/2012 9:20:00 AM

Long known as a real-estate developer, manager and investor, Portman Holdings LLC now sees an opportunity to acquire hotels, too.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for Jan.

2/20/2012 9:15:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 495 hotels, according to the January 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Carlson Rezidor finding its way into top tier

2/20/2012 9:15:00 AM

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s portfolio is growing at a rapid pace and the company is ready to make a serious impact among competing franchisors.

NAMA still a slow slog for hotel investors

2/20/2012 9:01:00 AM

Ireland’s National Asset Management Agency has approximately 140 hotels under enforcement, though accessing those assets has been anything but easy for investors.

STR Global: Europe pipeline for Jan.

2/20/2012 8:24:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 139,700 rooms, according to the January 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for Jan.

2/20/2012 8:14:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,479 hotels, according to the January 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

7 core competencies for revenue management

2/20/2012 7:56:00 AM

With the majority of hoteliers employing revenue management as part of their overall hotel discipline, now is the time to focus on core competencies that integrate both strategic and tactical skills and initiatives.

Distressed properties on the rise in 2012

2/20/2012 7:21:00 AM

As owners struggle to pay back loans for hotels financed and purchased during the mid-2000s, hotel receivership companies are in high demand to come to their rescue.

Tour de Data: Chicago presentation

2/17/2012 1:39:00 PM

STR Analytics presented this overview of the Chicago hotel market during Friday's Tour de Data event at the Hotel Palomar Chicago.

Stock update: Host, Hyatt, IHG, Marriott

2/17/2012 9:48:00 AM

Included in this week’s Q4 earnings roundup: Marriott International’s Sorenson sees good things ahead for the industry; InterContinental Hotels Group details its new brands; and Host Hotels & Resorts plans to be active in transactions this year.

5 things to know: 17 February 2012

2/17/2012 9:42:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• TravelClick: Booking pace up for 2012
• 10 trends that will shape the travel landscape
• Trivago: Hotel prices falling with temperatures in Europe
• Australian hotels report total 2011 return of 17.8%
• Facebook to roll out 'timelines' for brands

Sorenson: Global travel driving hotels forward

2/17/2012 9:28:00 AM

Growth in international travel and group business is painting a positive picture for Marriott International and the hotel sector overall, Marriott’s President and CEO Arne Sorenson said Thursday.

Carlson Rezidor bullish on U.S. market

2/17/2012 9:03:00 AM

Global growth was a key driver of the Carlson Rezidor alignment, but company executives said this week that developing Radisson Blu and Missoni flagship properties in key U.S. markets is an important step.

Dubai hotel market back to booming

2/17/2012 9:00:00 AM

After a brief hiccup soothed by oil-rich neighbor Abu Dhabi, Dubai is diving back into development—and the Emirate’s hotel market is booming.

PhoCusWright: 10 trends that will shape 2012

2/17/2012 8:31:00 AM

During a PhoCusWright webinar, three of the company’s analysts gave their takes on the hot topics and trends that will dominate the travel landscape this year.

STR: US results for week ending 11 Feb.

2/17/2012 8:27:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 5-11 February 2012, according to data from STR.

Checking out: Drinking with US presidents

2/17/2012 8:18:00 AM

One of the best hotel bar promotions I've ever seen features artfully crafted cocktails served with tasty historical anecdotes.

Hyatt eyeing brand acquisitions abroad

2/17/2012 7:41:00 AM

Hyatt Hotels Corporation is targeting small hotel collections and brands as it looks to expand its presence in Europe and Latin America, the company’s chief executive said during an earnings call Thursday.

5 things to know: 16 February 2012

2/16/2012 9:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott, Hyatt report Q4 earnings
• Concord commits US$355m to development
• Attorney: NLRB changes will affect hotel industry
• STR releases weekly US, Canada data
• US unemployment claims drop to lowest level in four years

New name, same strategies for Carlson Rezidor

2/16/2012 8:53:00 AM

Clarifying the Radisson brand throughout the world is Carlson Rezidor’s main focus, executives said Wednesday during the Carlson Global Hotel Business Conference in the Bahamas.

Hyatt Q4 RevPAR increases 6%

2/16/2012 8:52:00 AM

Comparable owned and leased hotels RevPAR increased 6% during the fourth quarter of 2011.

Special Report: Optimizing channel mix

2/16/2012 8:49:00 AM

Measuring the costs and returns of various channels is both critical and cumbersome. This week's educational report aims to help hoteliers determine the best strategies when distributing rooms via multiple channels.

Attorney: US hotels to face black swan soon

2/16/2012 8:39:00 AM

Arnold Perl told the audience at the 14th annual Memphis Lodging Industry Update that changes enacted by the National Labor Relations Board will dramatically change the hotel industry.

San Francisco reports strong weekly increases

2/16/2012 8:32:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 17.3%, its ADR increased 40.4% and its RevPAR jumped 64.7%.

Canada results for week ending 11 February

2/16/2012 8:25:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry’s occupancy rose 2%, ADR was up 2.2%, and RevPAR increased 4.3%.

Hawaii presents distribution challenge

2/16/2012 8:22:00 AM

Counting source markets such as the U.S. West Coast, Australia and, yes, Japan means Hawaii’s hoteliers must juggle multiple markets and distribution channels.

HR 3461 is wrong and anti-capitalist: Ross

2/16/2012 6:59:00 AM

A new bill that would change the rules for how banks restructure overleveraged loans is absolutely wrong-headed and should not be approved by Congress.

Marriott notches Q4 RevPAR gain

2/16/2012 6:17:00 AM

RevPAR for worldwide comparable systemwide properties grew by 5.9% during the fourth quarter.

5 things to know: 15 February 2012

2/15/2012 9:40:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Host to ramp up deal-making in 2012
• Marriott expands global site for LGBT customers
• Hotels grind for loyalty reimbursements
• TravelClick: Big cities to see rise in occupancy for Presidents' Day
• Worldhotels reports 20% roomnight production growth in 2011

Hotel execs: Economic conditions improving

2/15/2012 9:29:00 AM

During a dinner held in conjunction with last week’s Memphis Lodging Industry Update, hotel-industry leaders discussed the role REITs play, the economic outlook and the conditions for financing.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for Jan. '12

2/15/2012 9:09:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,736 projects totaling 293,143 rooms, according to the January 2012 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report released this week.

School vacation schedules and leisure demand

2/15/2012 9:03:00 AM

A compilation of vacation schedules from 550 U.S. school districts and universities provides valuable insights for anticipating upcoming leisure travel demand around important holiday periods.

Development spotlight: Radisson Blu Goa

2/15/2012 8:55:00 AM

The Radisson Blu Resort Goa Cavelossim Beach in India highlights Rezidor’s expansion strategy for the brand: a focus on off-the-beaten-path locations that still make a big impression.

Hotels grind for reward night reimbursements

2/15/2012 8:43:00 AM

Through their loyalty programs, brands offer the best incentives to the properties with the highest occupancy rates, and some revenue managers turn to opaque channels as a solution to help fill rooms.

2012 a deal-making year for Host

2/15/2012 8:17:00 AM

Host Hotels & Resorts intends to sell between US$100 million and US$115 million of hotel assets during the first half of 2012—and then put that capital back to work acquiring more hotels.

Panama City reports strong pipeline growth

2/15/2012 8:12:00 AM

The Panama City hotel market reached total inventory of 10,180 daily available rooms in 2011, following another strong year of new hotel openings, according to STR Global.

Wheelock acquires Houston DoubleTree hotel

2/14/2012 12:45:00 PM

Wheelock Street Capital has acquired the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel located in Houston, Texas within the Galleria submarket.

5 things to know: 14 February 2012

2/14/2012 10:01:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IHG closer to launching previously announced brands
• Special report: Peeling back the layers on OTA demand share
• Host reports Q4 revenue gain
• MGM takes US$45m loss on CityCenter
• HVS: LA presents opportunities for hotel development

IHG’s new brands to launch within five months

2/14/2012 9:53:00 AM

InterContinental Hotels Group CEO Richard Solomons shared an update on the company’s previously announced upper-upscale and midscale brands during the company’s earnings call.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

2/14/2012 9:32:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: Year-end numbers record positive results; Trump scores prime Washington, D.C., location; and Indianapolis hoteliers victorious over Super Bowl weekend.

A deeper dive into OTA demand share

2/14/2012 9:29:00 AM

STR examines hotel type, chain scale and location to see how the percent of demand driven by OTAs fluctuates.

Mesa West provides US$130m refi loan

2/14/2012 8:51:00 AM

The deal refinances the 802-room Hyatt Regency San Francisco.

Low-commission models no threat to OTAs

2/14/2012 8:34:00 AM

The recent swell of lower-commission distribution platforms is unlikely to impact the existing pricing structures of established players such as Expedia, Orbitz and Priceline, experts said.

IHG releases Q4 results

2/14/2012 7:28:00 AM

IHG reported Q4 revenue growth of 9% as the company continues to focus on targeted investment of its brand portfolio.

Panel: SoCal back to pre-recession metrics

2/14/2012 7:19:00 AM

Coastal and Southern California hotel investors have plenty to look forward to in 2012, but cash is king as bank funding remains elusive.

Host reports Q4 revenue gain

2/14/2012 6:08:00 AM

The 14 hotels acquired by Host Hotels & Resorts since July 2010 increased revenues at the company by an incremental US$83 million.

5 things to know: 13 February 2012

2/13/2012 10:04:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Distribution special report: Seasonality and discounting on demand
• MINA says it's close to acquiring 42 UK Marriott hotels
• HIP: Hotel activity declines in January
• Hotel industry divided on flash deals
• TripAdvisor warns against ‘TripAdvisor Select’ scam

Seasonality strategies key to driving demand

2/13/2012 9:42:00 AM

Understanding the seasonality of demand will help hoteliers maximize their channel mix during peak and shoulder periods.

Cause and effect: Discounting and demand

2/13/2012 9:38:00 AM

Does lowering rates increase demand or drive more revenue? Hoteliers have long disputed and experimented with the practice, yet most industry experts advise against it.

US hotel activity declined in January: HIP

2/13/2012 8:47:00 AM

The probability of the hotel industry entering into a recession was 21.2% in January.

Sochi hotel market emerges as Games near

2/13/2012 7:54:00 AM

The Olympic flame will begin burning in Sochi, Russia, in less than two years. The city’s hotel market has a bit of growing up to do before then.

Extracting operational intel from social media

2/13/2012 6:57:00 AM

Imagine online feedback as if it were expressed in person. It creates a fundamentally different response that enables hotels to make the operational changes necessary to deliver a superior guest experience.

5 things to know: 10 February 2012

2/10/2012 10:05:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Report: Fraud rampant in hotel industry
• STR preliminary numbers: Strong January for US hotels
• Las Vegas rates up 10.7% in 2011
• Travelocity: 76% of consumers plan to spend more at hotels
• TripAdvisor’s earnings strong; Expedia misses estimates

Stock update: Wyndham, Gaylord, Chesapeake

2/10/2012 9:36:00 AM

Companies reporting Q4 earnings this week include Wyndham Worldwide Corporation, Gaylord Entertainment Company and Chesapeake Lodging Trust.

Checking out: UK hotels’ £2-billion problem

2/10/2012 7:04:00 AM

What cost the U.K. hotel industry £2 billion (US$3.2 billion) during 2011? Hint: It’s not OTAs.

IREFAC talks deals, debt and more

2/10/2012 6:54:00 AM

The industry’s heavy hitters were taking full swings during the closing session at ALIS.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index up in January

2/9/2012 6:18:00 PM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended January with a 13% increase to 2,288.

STR: US results for week ending 4 February

2/9/2012 6:09:00 PM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 29 January-4 February, according to data from STR.

5 things to know: 9 February 2012

2/9/2012 9:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: Super Bowl hotels see 907.2% revenue increase
• STR: US hotels post 8.7% weekly RevPAR gain
• Wyndham execs attribute Q4 gains to online traffic
• DOJ clarifies ADA mandate on pool-lift requirement
• BDRC: Hilton, Marriott top brands in US

Wyndham: Direct bookings are driving RevPAR

2/9/2012 9:16:00 AM

Wyndham Hotel Group is making concerted efforts to drive direct traffic by including reviews and offering comparison shopping.

Indy hotels see 907.2% Super Bowl revenue gain

2/9/2012 8:53:00 AM

The Indianapolis hotel market reported impressive increases in demand, occupancy and average daily rate for Friday and Saturday nights during Super Bowl weekend, according to STR.

STR: Upper-midscale hotels top weekly gains

2/9/2012 8:24:00 AM

The segment’s occupancy rose 7.9% and its RevPAR increased 11.5% during the week ending 4 February.

Canada performance week ending 4 February

2/9/2012 8:18:00 AM

The industry’s occupancy ended the week with a 4.5% increase; ADR rose 2.1%; and RevPAR was up 6.6%.

US Travel campaign to boost meetings awareness

2/9/2012 7:54:00 AM

The U.S. Travel Association launched a campaign to inform Congressional members and staff of the importance of meetings and incentive travel in their states or districts.

Hotel buyers narrowing focus in 2012

2/9/2012 7:36:00 AM

2012 could bring about a rise in transactions volume, though buyers won’t necessarily pull the trigger on a deal prematurely, panelists said during the Hospitality Law Conference.

Hilton, Marriott market leaders in US: BDRC

2/9/2012 7:17:00 AM

BDRC Continental’s survey of more than 4,000 hotel guests found that Hilton ranks on top for business travel, while Marriott scores highest among leisure guests.

Trump scores DC’s Old Post Office Building

2/8/2012 10:20:00 AM

The Trump Hotel Collection was selected Tuesday to develop the Old Post Office Building in Washington, D.C., and will be the investor, developer, brand and operator for the 250-plus room property.

5 things to know: 8 February 2012

2/8/2012 10:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Trump wins bid for Old Post Office Building, plans renovation
• Q4, 2011 revenues up for both Wyndham and Disney
• Highland: Extended-stay Q4 rate growth fastest since 2007
• Starwood owners confirm steady economic climb
• AmEx: Less than 33% of companies have updated travel policies

Starwood owners report RevPAR recovery

2/8/2012 8:51:00 AM

The North American hotel market continues its steady climb out of the economic slump, according to data and owner insight at a recent Starwood franchisees and owners meeting.

Arab Spring causes hotel demand pressure

2/8/2012 8:47:00 AM

One year since the beginning of the Arab Spring, demand has yet to return to Egypt, Bahrain and the Levant region, according to the 2011 year-end data from STR Global.

Wyndham reports 15% boost in Q4 revenue

2/8/2012 8:38:00 AM

During 2011, Wyndham Worldwide repurchased 28.7 million shares of its common stock for US$902 million at an average price of US$31.45.

Mövenpick reveals global growth plan

2/8/2012 8:09:00 AM

Eleven new projects in nine countries reinforce the company’s global position.

Easy buttons, the Big Easy and Easy-Bake ovens

2/8/2012 7:51:00 AM

Here are four E.A.S.Y. steps to improve communication at your hotel.

Driftwood eyes 15% growth in portfolio

2/8/2012 7:45:00 AM

2012 is set to be a busy year for Driftwood Hospitality Management, which is looking to continue adding approximately two management contracts per month.

New pricing strategy at work for Gaylord

2/8/2012 7:38:00 AM

Gross advance group bookings are down 5% at Gaylord Entertainment Company, which provides evidence the company’s new, aggressive pricing model is at work, company executives said.

Turkey top Central Asia hotel hot spot: CATHIC

2/8/2012 7:31:00 AM

Turkey was top of mind for investors and developers during the first day of the Central Asia & Turkey Hotel Investment Conference.

Hotel demand peaks in North Dakota

2/8/2012 7:19:00 AM

While there is significantly more demand than supply for hotels in western North Dakota, hoteliers attempting to build in the state face hurdles.

Disney park/resorts revenue up 10% in Q1 2012

2/7/2012 6:59:00 PM

Parks and resorts revenues for the quarter increased 10% to US$3.2 billion.

5 things to know: 7 February 2012

2/7/2012 9:07:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• London hoteliers not deterred by Olympic room returns
• Green Street: Commercial property prices unchanged in January
• New England hotels post respectable 2011 results
• Kayak drops BlackBerry support
• Airlines January on-time performance strong

STR Analytics launches Tour de Data

2/7/2012 8:53:00 AM

Tour de Data, hosted by STR Analytics and the STR family of companies, is an intimate event that gives attendees a look at the latest hotel industry data, as well as innovative ways to examine it.

Springing for indulgence at Bedford Springs

2/7/2012 8:37:00 AM

Traveling to Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa in Bedford, Pennsylvania, I indulged in the limitless activities the resort has to offer.

Armed with solid metrics, Dolce aims for more

2/7/2012 8:19:00 AM

New Jersey-based Dolce Hotels and Resorts’ leader Steve Rudnitsky plans to leverage strong organic growth of performance metrics during 2011 into expansion opportunities.

Distribution experts dissect study findings

2/7/2012 7:43:00 AM

Revenue managers and consultants applaud the authors of the Distribution Channel Analysis study, however, some question the findings.

Gaylord reports Q4 results

2/7/2012 7:37:00 AM

Total RevPAR grew by 7% during the fourth quarter.

Independent hoteliers cautious of Roomkey.com

2/7/2012 7:25:00 AM

Roomkey.com might give big brands the extra boost they need, but is there a potential relationship for independent hotels on the site, as well?

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

2/7/2012 7:16:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of hotel news from Europe: Local authorities seek new revenue with hotel bed taxes; and several major chains share expansion plans for Europe and beyond.

Hoteliers take LOCOG room returns in stride

2/7/2012 6:58:00 AM

Hoteliers in London see the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games returning approximately 20% of roomnights it had reserved in the city as an opportunity.

Suburban Philadelphia enters hotel boom

2/6/2012 1:18:00 PM

The Woodside Lodge at Spring Mountain opened 2 February; the Valley Forge Casino Resort will feature 486 guestrooms; a 131-room SpringHill Suites is scheduled for a late February opening; and the 135-room Hilton Garden Inn Valley Forge/Oaks will debut in October.

Economic factors will affect hotel investment

2/6/2012 1:06:00 PM

The Plasencia Group's Lodging Investment Roadmap 2012 highlights factors impacting the health of the hotel sector and details lender activity, including recent underwriting criteria.

5 things to know: 6 February 2012

2/6/2012 9:42:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Haiti’s setbacks can’t keep hoteliers down
• IHG chairman David Webster to step down: Telegraph
• Wells Fargo plans to continue lending streak in 2012
• Gettys CEO Roger Hill shares secrets of innovation
• Euro debt stalemate leads to market woes

Hoteliers hustle to turn around Haiti

2/6/2012 8:20:00 AM

Two years after a devastating earthquake left Haiti in a debilitated state, hoteliers now are striving to create a competitive business and leisure destination.

Strand Development focuses on solving problems

2/6/2012 7:15:00 AM

John Pharr, president of Strand Development, has gleaned an important lesson from his four decades in the hotel industry: Adapt or die.

Mapping RevPAR performance: Time-lapsed series

2/6/2012 7:08:00 AM

A time-lapsed video of color-coded RevPAR changes by STR tract shows shifts in regional U.S. performance.

Wells Fargo plans to continue hotel lending

2/6/2012 6:58:00 AM

Wells Fargo, with approximately US$6 billion in its hotel loan portfolio, is planning continued activity in the sector during 2012, one of the bank’s executives said during ALIS.

5 things to know: 3 February 2012

2/3/2012 9:34:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• ADR forecasts subject to pricing pressures
• Weekly STR data shows improvement for US, Canada hotels
• US employers add 243,000 jobs in January
• Accor: No deal for Groupe du Louvre
• Former Gansevoort hotel on South Beach sold

Checking out: How to sell Room Key

2/3/2012 9:24:00 AM

What do the Cleveland Browns and Room Key have in common? Both lack a clear value proposition—for now.

Island Hospitality aims to shore up portfolio

2/3/2012 9:08:00 AM

The Florida-based management company plans to double the size of its hotel portfolio during the next five years, according to Island’s President Tim Walker.

Stock update: Starwood, Wynn, Supertel

2/3/2012 8:59:00 AM

Included in this week’s update of news from the hotel industry’s public sector: Supertel Hospitality’s shareholders approve a US$30-million investment.

Starwood Hotel execs talk development, economy

2/3/2012 8:38:00 AM

CEO Frits van Paasschen, discussed Thursday the company’s record-setting year of growth and the outlook in emerging markets for the year ahead during the company’s Q4.

STR: Canada results for week ending 28 January

2/3/2012 8:35:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 22-28 January, according to data from STR.

STR: US results for week ending 28 January

2/3/2012 8:10:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 22-28 January, according to data from STR.

Pricing pressures could alter ADR forecasts

2/3/2012 7:27:00 AM

Data collectors point to a bevy of unanswered questions and unknown factors that will determine hoteliers’ pricing power throughout 2012.

Millennials: Look inward before being heard

2/3/2012 7:10:00 AM

If we 20-somethings want to stand out among other individuals, have our ideas heard and be recognized, then we have to first take a look at ourselves.

Hotel managers labor to control labor

2/3/2012 7:02:00 AM

Hotel operators went against the trend during the recovery, holding operating expenses to a modest 3.4% increase.

Hostmark finds success in Lexington brand

2/2/2012 10:10:00 AM

Hostmark Hospitality continues to find success with the Lexington Collection hotel brand.

5 things to know: 2 February 2012

2/2/2012 9:40:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Facebook IPO could value the network at US$100b
• India hotel boom by brand
• Starwood Hotels reports 5.9% Q4 RevPAR gain
• European hoteliers lag in social-media adoption
• US unemployment claims down 12,000

O’Reilly looks to add parts to portfolio

2/2/2012 9:22:00 AM

O’Reilly Hospitality Management eyes public-private partnerships as one way to develop new-build hotels during a time when construction is muted.

Hotel brands bullish on India

2/2/2012 9:21:00 AM

A spate of development announcements highlights major hotel brands’ interest in India. Here’s a company-by-company breakdown of current portfolios and future plans.

Charter One: Three P’s are the key to success

2/2/2012 8:40:00 AM

Executives at Charter One Hotels & Resorts believe a focus on people, product and performance rather than numbers will keep the company strong for years to come.

Starwood Hotels reports 5.9% Q4 RevPAR gain

2/2/2012 7:15:00 AM

During the quarter, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide signed 36 management and franchise contracts and opened 28 properties.

‘Think for yourself’ when forecasting

2/2/2012 7:07:00 AM

Don’t blindly rely on forecast data when settling on your own internal forecasting for the hotel industry, one C-level executive told me.

Hotel industry sentiment falls back to reality

2/2/2012 6:57:00 AM

Reality has finally begun to take hold for most people in this business.

5 things to know: 1 February 2012

2/1/2012 9:31:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Room Key faces tough questions from hoteliers
• FelCor to acquire Knickerbocker Hotel in New York for US$115m
• Investors at ALIS reminisce on 2011 deals
• TripAdvisor: Wi-Fi access most important hotel amenity
• Starwood Hotels overhauling loyalty program

Indianapolis hotels score with the Super Bowl

2/1/2012 9:02:00 AM

Hoteliers in Indianapolis have reason to celebrate as the city hosts the Super Bowl for the first time, driving up occupancies and room rates in the area.

Celebration and €conomic uncertainty in London

2/1/2012 8:55:00 AM

As London prepares to tackle both economic hurdles and major celebratory events, we’re all asking: What are the city's short-term market expectations?

Positive RevPAR growth for Regional UK, London

2/1/2012 8:18:00 AM

London and Regional U.K. reported positive RevPAR growth during 2011, according to data from STR Global.

Hotel investors talk deals, opportunities

2/1/2012 8:16:00 AM

Speaking on a panel at ALIS last week, hotel investors said they foresee an improving environment for hotels, but the wild card is the availability of debt.

Starwood Hotels to overhaul SPG benefits

2/1/2012 7:35:00 AM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announce new benefits to its Starwood Preferred Guest program.

FelCor to acquire NY Knickerbocker for US$115m

2/1/2012 7:16:00 AM

FelCor Lodging Trust Incorporated will acquire the landmark Knickerbocker Hotel in midtown Manhattan, New York, for $115 million.

Exchange rate impact on room rates

2/1/2012 7:09:00 AM

Changes in the exchange rate can make destinations more or less attractive, depending on the country (and currency) of origin of the traveler.

Broke Europe calls for hotel bed taxes

2/1/2012 6:57:00 AM

Economic volatility coupled with government cutbacks is forcing local authorities to introduce new bed taxes that could hurt the hotel industry.

5 things to know: 31 January 2012

1/31/2012 9:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff
• JLLH: record-setting deal flow in NYC during 2011
• Chesapeake to acquire NYC Hyatt for US$76.5m
• Las Vegas hotels back on track
• Accessing debt requires specificity from borrowers
• Travelodge to open 41 UK hotels in 2012

Chartres digs for deals, builds portfolio

1/31/2012 8:50:00 AM

Leaders of San Francisco-based Chartres Lodging Group aim to increase acquisition activity by more than US$1 billion during the next three years.

How to talk to the banks

1/31/2012 7:43:00 AM

A lot of people are reaching out to banks for money and to potentially buy a bank-owned hotel. Here’s how to cut through all the clutter and grab a banker’s attention.

Travelodge to open 41 hotels in UK in 2012

1/31/2012 7:35:00 AM

Travelodge will be opening 41 hotels (3610 rooms) this year and creating 1,000 new jobs across the UK.

Vegas hotel performance back on track

1/31/2012 7:26:00 AM

Steady increases in occupancy led to double-digit ADR growth throughout 2011 in Las Vegas.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

1/31/2012 7:16:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: Hoteliers are embarking on a public-relations spree to shore up MEA’s reputation; investors are taking a wait-and-see approach; and openings and development news from across the region.

Mild winter can’t put freeze on ski resorts

1/31/2012 6:57:00 AM

Snowfall doesn’t correlate to hotel demand—at least if on-slope conditions are at minimally acceptable levels.

Chesapeake to acquire NYC Hyatt for US$76.5m

1/31/2012 6:36:00 AM

Chesapeake Lodging Trust is paying US$414,000 per room for the 185-room Hyatt Place New York Midtown South, which is under development.

NYC hotel transactions hit US$3.5b in 2011

1/30/2012 3:26:00 PM

The volume of hotel transactions in New York reached an all-time record high in 2011.

5 things to know: 30 January 2012

1/30/2012 9:35:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• leaders: industry must aggressively market U.S. on global stage;
• lenders discuss their hotel activity during ALIS;
• Denihan planning to double portfolio in five years;
• Olympic organizers return 20% of room inventory; and
• Kayak: iPhone users most likely to buy travel products online.

Denihan looks in all directions for expansion

1/30/2012 9:14:00 AM

The New York-based development-and-management company plans to double its portfolio under the leadership of new president David Duncan.

Access Point closes on senior secured facility

1/30/2012 9:05:00 AM

Access Point Financial is on track to place US$1 billion in loans for hotel improvement/bridge financing by 2015, the company said.

Americans appetite for vacations drives demand

1/30/2012 9:03:00 AM

HIL's six-month growth rate, which has historically confirmed the forthcoming turning points in U.S. hotel business activity, posted a positive gain of 5.7% during December.

Lenders tell their side of the story at ALIS

1/30/2012 8:32:00 AM

Lenders had an opportunity to discuss their hotel sector investment plans during last week’s ALIS conference.

Comp magnets vs. comp repellants

1/30/2012 7:19:00 AM

Whether your hotel is a “comp magnet” or a “comp repellant,” it’s the influence of data that should most concern you.

Reduce risk of management termination

1/30/2012 7:10:00 AM

Owners and operators can eliminate the need for drastic changes by negotiating a less disruptive solution than early management termination.

US tourism faces hurdles to inbound travel

1/30/2012 6:59:00 AM

The global travel industry is growing, but the U.S. is losing its fair share. Competition will require a united effort across all sectors of tourism, travel leaders said during ALIS.

5 things to know: 27 January 2012

1/27/2012 9:33:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Study reveals importance of international travel;
• optimism prevails at ALIS;
• U.S. GDP up 2.8% in Q4 2011;
• Indy hotel prices up as much as 1,758% for Super Bowl; and
• Pebblebrook provides 2012 outlook.

Checking out: ALIS edition

1/27/2012 8:54:00 AM

Thank goodness I don’t believe in omens. If I did, I’m sure the sky would have fallen this year during ALIS.

STR: US results for week ending 21 January

1/27/2012 8:26:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 15-21 January, according to data from STR.

Deal experts optimistic in 2012

1/27/2012 8:22:00 AM

Improving industry fundamentals, an influx of foreign capital and the possibility of distressed sales have dealmakers expecting an active transactions year in 2012.

The truth about 2012 for hoteliers

1/27/2012 7:25:00 AM

Optimism is about to crash into reality. Are you ready for impact?

It never rains in Southern California ...

1/27/2012 7:11:00 AM

A downpour that coincided with the start of ALIS didn’t dampen the realistic optimism among attendees.

Update: Hotel Acquisition Funds List

1/27/2012 6:00:00 AM

Updated funds include: Apollo Global Fund; Goldman Real Estate Fund; and the Japan Hotel & Resort and Nippon Hotel Fund. (Free registration/ login required.)

IREFAC: Hotel debt market evolving

1/26/2012 10:08:00 AM

During the closing session at ALIS on Wednesday, members of the Industry Real Estate Financing Advisory Council said the changing debt market is likely to draw out the closings of hotel transactions.

5 things to know: 26 January 2012

1/26/2012 9:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR weekly data for US and Canada;
• highlights from day three of ALIS conference;
• 53 hotels officially become Hyatt House;
• Robert Morse named COO of Americas at IHG; and
• WSJ: Two boutiques in NYC set for foreclosure.

Poland, Ukraine gear up for UEFA

1/26/2012 9:33:00 AM

STR Global reports on the latest hotel pipeline in Poland and Ukraine in light of the upcoming UEFA European Football Championship.

Banks stepping up to maintain hotel values

1/26/2012 8:50:00 AM

One of the biggest surprises during the recession was banks’ willingness to inject capital to maintain distressed hotels on their balance sheets. Many owners, on the other hand, have not been as diligent.

Anaheim-Santa Ana tops weekly increases

1/26/2012 8:34:00 AM

The market's occupancy rose 29.5%, its ADR was up 16% and its RevPAR jumped 50.2%.

STR: Canada results for week ending 21 January

1/26/2012 8:24:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 15-21 January, according to data from STR.

Hyatt officially unveils Hyatt House

1/26/2012 8:10:00 AM

Hyatt Hotels will rebrand 38 Hyatt Summerfield Suites and 15 Hotel Sierra hotels to Hyatt house.

ALIS attendees finally have it right

1/26/2012 8:04:00 AM

The only way to describe the sentiment at the first major investment conference of the year is “reserved optimism,” as attendees like some aspects of what’s going on but know challenges lie ahead.

Expansion on agenda for Spanish hotel chains

1/26/2012 7:31:00 AM

Chief executives from Meliá Hotels International, NH Hoteles and Barceló Hotels & Resorts provide detailed company updates during last week’s FITUR travel trade fair in Madrid.

Republicans, democrats, inaugurations, oh my!

1/26/2012 6:55:00 AM

Preparing for a major event requires months of planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help you get started.

5 things to know: 25 January 2012

1/25/2012 10:10:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IMF cuts growth forecast for global economy;
• Day 2 of HotelNewsNow.com ALIS coverage;
• Choice redefines Comfort brand family;
• Hilton claims fastest growing major hotel company;
• survey: Hotel owners facing PIP challenges.

Hotels see benefits in Africa’s mobile trend

1/25/2012 9:58:00 AM

Mobile technology is advancing rapidly in the African market, and some hoteliers have already found the key to boost mobile bookings.

Trump talks hotels at ALIS

1/25/2012 9:49:00 AM

Donald Trump shared his tips for real-estate success to ALIS delegates Tuesday—and got in a few jabs at President Obama along the way.

ALIS: Leaders debate success of Room Key

1/25/2012 9:25:00 AM

Not every hotel executive on stage during a general session at ALIS said Room Key would be a success. One claimed it wouldn’t work at all.

Caribbean hotels report increases in 2011

1/25/2012 8:43:00 AM

The Caribbean hotel industry reported increases in all three key performance metrics in 2011, according to data from STR.

Novotel’s high-tech room tests new standards

1/25/2012 7:25:00 AM

Accor’s Novotel brand has partnered with Microsoft to create the room of the future, in which high-tech features might become the brand standards of tomorrow.

Trends in luxury ADR premiums

1/25/2012 7:15:00 AM

Luxury ADR premiums are a bellwether of overall hotel industry performance. Which of the top markets have returned to previous peaks?

Distribution Channel Analysis study released

1/24/2012 3:08:00 PM

To help hoteliers from all facets of the industry better understand the complexities of hotel room distribution, the AH&LA teamed with STR to create a special report, “Distribution Channel Analysis; a Guide for Hotels.”

Distribution study available for download

1/24/2012 2:51:00 PM

The comprehensive report discusses the effects of channel mix on profitability and what the industry can expect in the near term in the distribution landscape.

Choice shifts focus to Comfort brand family

1/24/2012 12:34:00 PM

The Comfort brand family, which includes Comfort Inn and Comfort Suites, has embarked on a multi-faceted plan to strengthen and revitalize its 2,000 domestic hotels.

5 things to know: 24 January 2012

1/24/2012 10:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR, PwC update lodging forecasts;
• HotelNewsNow.com recaps Day 1 of ALIS conference;
• Southwest Value Partners takes over Transwest properties;
• Survey: Majority of execs remain bullish on the marketplace;
• Amsterdam hotels are resilient to downturn.

CEOs: 2011 momentum carrying into 2012

1/24/2012 9:26:00 AM

A panel of CEOs from around the hotel industry said falling unemployment, a rise in hotel transactions and growing demand signify a strong 2012 for the industry.

ALIS: Marriott, Zell share insights, opinions

1/24/2012 9:11:00 AM

Hotel legend Bill Marriott and real-estate icon Sam Zell tell conference attendees that having cash on hand is the best tool a company can have during an economic downturn.

STR: Modest increases expected in '12, '13

1/24/2012 9:05:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry is expected to report steady increases in both 2012 and 2013, according to the most recent forecast from STR, in partnership with Tourism Economics.

HVS: Events leading Amsterdam's quick recovery

1/24/2012 8:34:00 AM

Recovering conference market puts Amsterdam’s hotel sector on a strong footing for future growth, says HVS London.

Total property transactions increase in 2011

1/24/2012 8:13:00 AM

Total hotel property transactions in 2011 amounted to US$14 billion, compared to US$8.6 billion in 2010, according to data from STR Analytics.

ALIS: US hotel data paints picture of recovery

1/24/2012 7:55:00 AM

Three of the industry’s smartest data wonks shared optimistic outlooks for the U.S. hotel industry in a rapid fire, 150-second roundup.

ALIS: US outlook shows more growth, financing

1/24/2012 7:30:00 AM

The U.S. economy is experiencing sustained growth, said John Silvia, a managing director and chief economist of Wells Fargo Securities. Perhaps more promising? Banks are lending.

Strategic plans vs. reality in development

1/24/2012 7:10:00 AM

There’s a big difference between building a hotel to capture forecasted increases in demand and building one to meet an existing market need.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

1/24/2012 6:58:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Hyatt introduces Hyatt House in India; China Lodging pursues an aggressive expansion strategy; and IHG will launch a new upscale chain in India.

Strong appetite for deals in US: DLA Piper

1/23/2012 2:00:00 PM

DLA Piper 2012 Hospitality Outlook Survey reveals “strong” appetite for deals
near-term deal flow expected to continue, led by private equity investors.

PwC US releases 2012 Lodging Industry Forecast

1/23/2012 12:05:00 PM

With improved occupancy, focus turns to pricing in 2012, according to PwC US Lodging Industry Forecast.

5 things to know: 23 January 2012

1/23/2012 10:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR’s Randy Smith wraps up 2011, looks ahead to 2012;
• Starwood reports record growth in 2011;
• Google Hotel Finder adds new function;
• Abu Dhabi reports 17% growth in hotel guests in 2011; and
• Expedia launches last-minute deals program.

STR Global: Americas results for 2011

1/23/2012 9:45:00 AM

In 2011, the Americas region reported a 4.2% increase in occupancy to 60.2%, a 3.8% gain in average daily rate to US$104.26 and an 8.2% jump in revenue per available room to US$62.79.

STR: US hotels report strong results in 2011

1/23/2012 9:45:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry reported increases in all three key performance metrics in 2011, according to data from STR.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for 2011

1/23/2012 9:34:00 AM

Hotels in the Asia/Pacific region experienced positive results in the three key performance metrics in 2011 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

Supertel on brink of new strategy

1/23/2012 9:27:00 AM

Supertel Hospitality plans to move into the business of acquiring midscale and upper-midscale hotels if its shareholders approve a US$30-million investment from an Argentinean real-estate company.

STR Global: MEA results for 2011

1/23/2012 9:24:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa region reported mostly negative performance results in 2011 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR: US hotel performance for December

1/23/2012 9:17:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry in December reported increases in all three key performance metrics, according to data from STR.

STR Global: Europe results for 2011

1/23/2012 8:34:00 AM

The European hotel industry posted positive results in year-over-year metrics when reported in U.S. dollars, euros and British pounds for 2011, according to data compiled by STR Global.

Operating margins expected to rise in 2012

1/23/2012 8:27:00 AM

It will be tough for the U.S. hotel industry in 2012 to match the somewhat unexpected high performance growth of last year, but there is reason for optimism.

Authors discuss release of distribution report

1/23/2012 6:59:00 AM

The 214-page Distribution Channel Analysis study, which will be released Tuesday at ALIS, has been dubbed “a comprehensive study on the value of each of the channels.”

5 things to know: 20 January 2012

1/20/2012 10:29:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases weekly, monthly performance data;
• hoteliers react to Obama’s plan for visa reform;
• Marriott preparing to open five more EDITIONs;
• Trump Soho will go up for sale; and
• Fitch: demand trends continue to show solid recovery.

Hoteliers applaud Obama’s plan for visa reform

1/20/2012 9:41:00 AM

President Barack Obama said this month a task force has been created to improve the visa process for certain travelers. Hoteliers say it will lead to increased international demand, especially in port cities.

Checking out: Obama’s travel initiative, more

1/20/2012 9:17:00 AM

President Obama’s plans to boost inbound travel to the U.S. is a win for the country’s hotel industry.

Canada results for week ending 14 January

1/20/2012 9:08:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported mixed results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 8-14 January, according to data from STR.

Stock update: Rezidor, Supertel

1/20/2012 9:01:00 AM

In this week’s update of public hotel company news: Rezidor and Carlson form a new entity and Supertel Hospitality receives an additional investment.

STR: New Orleans leads December increases

1/20/2012 8:32:00 AM

New Orleans experienced the largest increases in all three key performance metrics in December, according to data from STR.

STR: US results for week ending 14 January

1/20/2012 8:06:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 8-14 January, according to data from STR.

Room Key: Operators like site, question costs

1/20/2012 7:45:00 AM

While many hotel operators are excited at the prospect of saving money on commissions by using RoomKey.com, some are concerned they will have to fork over additional funds to make it work.

Croatia makes strides to encourage development

1/20/2012 7:22:00 AM

Croatia’s government is thawing restrictions that thwarted hotel development in the past.

US hotel transactions gaining speed

1/20/2012 6:54:00 AM

There were 130 single-asset deals of more than US$10 million, representing deal volume of approximately US$8.9 billion during 2011, according to LW Hospitality Advisors LLC’s Select Major 2011 U.S. Hotel Sales Survey.

AH&LA endorses Obama's travel initiative

1/19/2012 12:14:00 PM

President Obama announced Thursday he has issued an executive order aimed at boosting travel and tourism.

5 things to know: 19 January 2012

1/19/2012 10:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Carlson, Rezidor become Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group;
• JLLH: 2012 transaction volume will match 2011 at US$15 billion;
• STR Global releases hotel construction data from key regions;
• Accor will sell two high-profile properties; and
• Chicago's Elysian earns top spot on TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.

COO talks Carlson, Rezidor alliance

1/19/2012 9:42:00 AM

The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, a new entity announced Wednesday, was more than a year in the making, Carlson COO Thorsten Kirschke said. Aligning each company’s brands will require just as much diligence.

Qualia, Louvre partner for Poland development

1/19/2012 9:16:00 AM

Qualia Development and Louvre Hotels Group sign a strategic franchise partnership for the development of Golden Tulip across Poland.

Bad debt looms over hotel sector

1/19/2012 8:48:00 AM

A day of reckoning approaches for hotels saddled with debt from the frothy days of 2006 and 2007.

Dr. Doom’s real-world prediction for 2012

1/19/2012 8:26:00 AM

Outside of the fantasy land of hotel industry conferences, real-estate professionals know the sector is headed for another challenging and uncertain year ahead.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for December

1/19/2012 8:19:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 496 hotels, according to the December 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe pipeline for December

1/19/2012 8:12:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 143,484 rooms, according to the December 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for December

1/19/2012 7:49:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,460 hotels, according to the December 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

ALIS venue a three-tiered operation

1/19/2012 7:16:00 AM

Managing the operations at L.A. Live—a multibranded property including a JW Marriott, Ritz-Carlton and Ritz-Carlton Residences—requires a special skill set and involves a combination of resources.

ALIS speakers share outlook on 2012

1/19/2012 6:57:00 AM

As hoteliers gear up for ALIS, moderators from various sessions share with HotelNewsNow.com what to expect from their panels, as well as the U.S. hotel industry this year.

Design of the times

1/18/2012 4:14:00 PM

Creating a comprehensive guest experience encompasses many facets from financing to construction to architecture aesthetic. HotelNewsNow.com examines the changing landscape of hotel design.

Carlson, Rezidor merge under one name

1/18/2012 1:00:00 PM

While the legal status and ownership structure of Carlson and Rezidor remain the same, the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group will pursue the global alignment and management of its brands.

Americas hotel deals to hold steady in 2012

1/18/2012 12:41:00 PM

Healthy operating fundamentals and an abundance of equity capital will support a buoyant market for hotel transactions

Accor's CFO confirms no asset spin-off

1/18/2012 10:11:00 AM

Responding to an earlier report, Accor’s CFO said during a conference call Tuesday the company is not planning any changes to its structure.

5 things to know: 18 January 2012

1/18/2012 10:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Special report examines evolution of hotel architecture, design;
• President Obama will unveil new U.S. tourism policy;
• Wynn Resorts denies charges from largest shareholder;
• survey: Free Wi-Fi is a must when choosing a hotel room; and
• Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide moves headquarters.

Atlanta Marriott Marquis is unique, timeless

1/18/2012 9:40:00 AM

John C. Portman’s unique design aesthetic contributed in making a timeless hotel that continues to be a part of the Peachtree center, an iconic landmark in Atlanta.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for December

1/18/2012 9:31:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 17,869 rooms, according to the December STR Construction Pipeline Report.

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

1/18/2012 9:22:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 197 hotels, according to the December 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Cutting edge or on the edge?

1/18/2012 8:40:00 AM

Time-lapse video of a 30-story hotel built in 15 days goes viral and is another example of how cutting-edge thinking can change the hotel industry.

STR Global: Spain, Portugal see RevPAR growth

1/18/2012 8:34:00 AM

STR Global reported double-digit RevPAR growth in Lisbon, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands year-to-November 2011 compared to the same timeframe in the year prior.

Today’s architects design, build experiences

1/18/2012 8:31:00 AM

Consumers have unprecedented power over market trends, so today’s hotel architects focus on the guest experience and enhancing that experience on multiple levels.

Construction financing market challenging

1/18/2012 8:04:00 AM

The pace of construction debt flowing into the hotel sector has all but slowed to a trickle, lending experts report.

Rising steel prices don't deter renovations

1/18/2012 7:47:00 AM

Construction companies are turning to renovation work as their main business driver, but the price of steel—up as much as 50% during the past two years—has become a hindrance.

Accor reports 2.5% 2011 revenue growth

1/17/2012 12:56:00 PM

Record expansion aided Accor's revenue uptick, as the company opened 318 hotels comprising 38,700 new rooms in 2011.

5 things to know: 17 January 2012

1/17/2012 9:49:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• UNWTO: International arrivals in 2012 on track to reach 1 billion;
• travel exports up 13.5% through first 11 months of 2011;
• China's GDP growth slows to 8.9% during Q4 2011;
• study: three factors that will define travel in 2012; and
• Google's Freshness Update provides better search results.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

1/17/2012 9:30:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: a look back at how many hotels opened in the Americas; hotel stocks in 2011 underperform; and a list of recent key openings and transactions.

Tourism arrivals to hit record 1b: UNWTO

1/17/2012 9:07:00 AM

International tourist arrivals are on track to surpass the 1 billion during 2012, despite headwinds that could slow the overall pace of growth, according to the UNWTO.

Brand.com bookings increase 6.1% in Q3

1/17/2012 8:57:00 AM

The hotel-direct channel was the fastest growing within the distribution landscape, according to TravelClick. Online travel agencies, however, reported the largest increase in average daily rate.

The lost art, science of front-desk yielding

1/17/2012 8:48:00 AM

There are thousands of dollars being lost at the point-of-sale by front-desk personnel who have not been properly trained to handle the walk-in and/or rate-sensitive customer in person.

Do you have an (un)competitive set?

1/17/2012 8:32:00 AM

Only 45% of U.S. hotels and 37% of European hotels named as primary competitors are named back as a primary competitor by the same properties.

Positive November RevPAR for Japan

1/17/2012 8:06:00 AM

Hotel performance in Japan has suffered following the earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, but the country’s hotel industry is making a comeback, according to STR Global’s Japan Hotel Review.

Hotel Investment Barometer sample content

1/15/2012 12:05:00 PM

5 things to know: 13 January 2012

1/13/2012 9:50:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Amanresort sale stalls because of low bids;
• Choice buys land parcels to spur Cambria development;
• brands offer new revenue management platforms;
• Western Australia tourism hotspots report low occupancy; and
• MGM to build new resort in Massachusetts.

STR: US results for week ending 7 January

1/13/2012 9:36:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 1-7 January, according to data from STR.

Checking out: The biggest story of 2012

1/13/2012 8:54:00 AM

It took less than 11 days for the most important story of 2012 to drop in the new year. It took the six brands behind Room Key quite a bit longer to get the platform up and running.

Brands work to simplify revenue management

1/13/2012 7:46:00 AM

Many of the globe’s largest hotel companies are offering new platforms and support to help property-level managers tackle the increasingly complex discipline of revenue management.

Choice buys land parcels to drive development

1/13/2012 7:38:00 AM

The franchisor acquired five land parcels through distressed sales during the past 18 months, and the land will be sold back to Cambria Suites developers at cost.

5 things to know: 12 January 2012

1/12/2012 9:43:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. transactions volume hits US$8.9b in 2011;
• STR: luxury segment tops weekly performance in U.S.;
• NYC transactions market to gain strength in 2012;
• US unemployment claims up 24,000 last week; and
• Best Western adds inventory to Room Key.

REITs awakening in 2012

1/12/2012 9:33:00 AM

Real-estate investment trusts are starting to kick the tires on potential hotel deals again as macroeconomic clarity returns.

Canada results for week ending 7 January

1/12/2012 9:20:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 1-7 January, according to data from STR.

STR reports 3,377 rooms open in Canada in 2011

1/12/2012 9:09:00 AM

In 2011, 34 new properties comprising 3,377 rooms opened in Canada, according to data from the STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

NYC deals will continue in 2012

1/12/2012 8:50:00 AM

The strong operating performance of hotels in New York is one factor leading to an expanding deal market in the city, transaction experts said.

Luxury hotels lead weekly increases

1/12/2012 8:27:00 AM

The segment’s occupancy rose 3.6% to 51.9%, its ADR was up 5.7% to US$267.63 and its RevPAR increased 9.4% to US$138.96.

Panicking about distribution? Pump the brakes

1/12/2012 7:49:00 AM

Too many hoteliers— too many headlines— are claiming a new product is the be-all, end-all savior for simplifying hotel online distribution. It’s time to stop and take a deep breath.

Big hotel brands get personal on social media

1/12/2012 7:12:00 AM

Size can be a hindrance on social media, where personal interactions are worth more than blanket communication. Here’s how several major hotel companies are thinking small to generate big returns.

Brands team to launch Roomkey.com hotel search

1/11/2012 9:51:00 AM

CEO John F. Davis said Room Key will allow consumers to compare brands but still book direct and will charge “significantly less” commissions.

5 things to know: 11 January 2012

1/11/2012 9:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Six major chains launch hotel search engine;
• investors taking wait-and-see approach in MEA;
• STR: 70,291 rooms expected to open in U.S. in 2012;
• California hotel foreclosures jump 65.9% in Q4; and
• GBTA: Business travel spend up 7.6% in 2011.

Hoteliers, government work to rebrand MEA

1/11/2012 9:02:00 AM

After a tumultuous year, hoteliers and government officials are working together in the Middle East/Africa to rebrand the region as an attractive tourism destination for domestic and inbound guests.

Trends that will shape the US hotel industry

1/11/2012 8:42:00 AM

2011 was a rebound year and performance results were strong, but they mostly were driven by easy comparables.

STR reports 38,409 new rooms opened in '11

1/11/2012 8:28:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry during 2011 opened 373 new properties with 38,409 rooms, which resulted in a 0.5% increase in existing room supply, according to data from STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

STR Global reports updated India hotel data

1/11/2012 7:25:00 AM

India’s hotel industry showed overall year-to-date November 2011 growth in performance data and the supply pipeline, STR Global announced today in conjunction with the start of the Hotel Investment Forum India conference in Mumbai.

Hotel investment largely on hold in MEA

1/11/2012 7:19:00 AM

Hotel investors are a taking a wait-and-see approach after the Arab Spring uprisings in the Middle East/Africa region, though some bright spots have emerged.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

1/10/2012 10:19:00 AM

Company mergers and acquisitions—some completed, some proposed, some called off—highlight this roundup of news from the European hotel industry.

5 things to know: 10 January 2012

1/10/2012 10:16:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. holiday week data shows winners and losers;
• ILIA aims to level the playing field for independents;
• U.S. hotel business activity slows in December;
• TripAdvisor abandons dirtiest hotel list; and
• natural resource fuels Pennsylvania hotel industry.

ILIA gives voice to independent hotels

1/10/2012 10:00:00 AM

The Independent Lodging Industry Association is a new voice that aims to help independent hotels thrive.

How do the holidays treat hoteliers?

1/10/2012 9:37:00 AM

In one week, hoteliers experienced one of the least busy days (Christmas Eve) and one of the busiest days (New Year’s Eve) of the year. Let’s peek at the data to see how the industry fared.

Efficiency in renovation: 4 key considerations

1/10/2012 9:12:00 AM

It is crucial to consider the following points in order to maintain a fully-operational hotel property while renovations are underway.

Hoteliers work to sell the destination

1/10/2012 8:56:00 AM

Hoteliers around the world are pairing with local and global destination marketing organizations to reel in extra business this year as leisure travel increases.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index falls 15.3% in '11

1/10/2012 8:48:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended December with a 2.7% increase to 2,003 and was down 15.3% during 2011.

HIP: US hotel growth continues to slow

1/9/2012 4:56:00 PM

HIP's six-month growth rate, which has historically confirmed the turning points in U.S. hotel business activity, had a positive rate of 1.3% in December, following a positive rate of 2.4% in November.

5 things to know: 9 January 2012

1/9/2012 10:16:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• NYC hoteliers mixed on new convention center plan;
• U.S. preliminary hotel results show RevPAR gains;
• Green Street Advisors: U.S. commercial property values plateau;
• Travelodge and Chatwal target aggressive expansion; and
• Louvre opened 63 hotels during 2011.

Visitors return to Vienna. Will rate follow?

1/9/2012 9:58:00 AM

Downside risks likely will dominate in the short term, but the Vienna hotel market’s long-term outlook suggests a return to prosperity.

NYC hoteliers torn on new convention center

1/9/2012 9:23:00 AM

New York City hoteliers are weighing the pros and cons of the governor’s proposed plan to revitalize the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and develop a state-of-the-art facility in Queens.

If the home team wins, hometown hotels win

1/9/2012 8:31:00 AM

In this installment in the Sunday Night Football article series, data analysis from STR Analytics tracks trends in hotel performance if the hometown NFL teams wins or loses.

Regional centers across China report growth

1/9/2012 7:44:00 AM

The Chinese hotel market’s performance has remained positive year-to-November, according to STR Global.

Rezidor announces organizational changes

1/9/2012 7:32:00 AM

The Rezidor Hotel Group announces an organizational optimization of their regional operations offices in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Be my guest: 7 ways to improve service

1/9/2012 7:04:00 AM

Here are seven ways to adjust to new competitive realities and consistently deliver outstanding customer service.

Checking out: 2012 trends, CEO shifts, more

1/6/2012 9:54:00 AM

In this inaugural blog, which will become a Friday fixture on HotelNewsNow.com, I explore key trends to watch in 2012 and two notable CEO changes at major hotel companies.

5 things to know: 6 January 2012

1/6/2012 9:38:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases weekly U.S., Canada hotel data;
• revenue managers in 2012 resolve to raise rates;
• hotel litigation explodes as economy deteriorates;
• union poster requirement delayed until April; and
• Hooters Hotel sale expected in March.

Revenue-management resolutions for 2012

1/6/2012 9:21:00 AM

The most important resolution for revenue managers might be familiar, while others in this list require complete shifts in thinking.

Canada results for week ending 31 December

1/6/2012 8:59:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 25-31 December, according to data from STR.

2012 Hotel Resolutions

1/6/2012 8:53:00 AM

In the final installment of this four-part special report, hotel revenue managers share their top five resolutions for 2012.

STR: US results for week ending 31 December

1/6/2012 8:37:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 25-31 December, according to data from STR.

Hoteliers: Speak now amid political pressure

1/6/2012 6:57:00 AM

Politicians, politics and policies impact the U.S. hotel industry in countless ways. As an industry, we must wake up to the fact that we cannot be silent.

Carlson appoints interim midscale leader

1/5/2012 10:31:00 AM

Scott Meyer replaces Steve Mocgk and will report to Thorsten Kirschke, chief operating officer, Carlson Hotels, and president, Carlson Hotels, Americas.

5 things to know: 5 January 2012

1/5/2012 9:04:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• JLLH: Global deals market to be flat in 2012;
• North American airlines maintained on-time performance;
• hotel operators must abandon excuses in 2012;
• 2012 is the year of maturing debt for hotels; and
• early rate negotiations see increases.

HIP: US hotel recovery outpacing economy

1/5/2012 8:47:00 AM

The Hotel Industry Pulse index rose to a reading of 106.4 in November, following an increase of 0.4 % in October. The index was set to equal 100 in 2005.

JLLH: Flat hotel sales in 2012

1/5/2012 8:46:00 AM

Global hotel deals will hold steady in 2012, reaching upwards of US$30 billion in transaction volume, according to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels.

Business travelers define hotel preferences

1/5/2012 8:30:00 AM

A recent Deloitte survey reports a generational divide might explain varying hotel preferences among business travelers, and the findings could help hoteliers capture additional guests as corporate travel is expected to increase in 2012.

REITs not ‘bullied’ over stock price drops

1/5/2012 8:11:00 AM

REIT stock prices will “rocket back up” when clarity returns to the market, Ken Cruse of Sunstone Hotel Investors said.

Chilling out at the ice hotel

1/5/2012 7:47:00 AM

Operating an ice hotel that is open for three months each year is different than managing a “normal” hotel. But, in many ways, the same strategies are executed.

Debt maturities loom over hotels in 2012

1/5/2012 7:21:00 AM

With billions of dollars of debt scheduled to mature in 2012, hotel companies are scrambling to restructure or refinance.

5 resolutions for hotel operators in 2012

1/5/2012 6:40:00 AM

Hotel operators should avoid using the common, “But we’re in a recession,” excuse, among other important resolutions.

5 things to know: 4 January 2012

1/4/2012 9:47:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Report: IHG to launch China brand in next six months;
• 5 pressing issues in hotel security;
• DLF reportedly nears deal to sell Aman Resorts business;
• North American hotel sector off to good 2012 start; and
• LaSalle closes on US$396.2m NYC deal.

New China Lodging CEO details expansion plans

1/4/2012 9:31:00 AM

China Lodging Group’s newly appointed CEO, Qi Ji, is disappointed with the development thus far of the company’s Seasons Hotels and Hi Inns brands. Aggressive expansion is on the agenda for 2012.

Whetsell to oversee Loews’ growth strategy

1/4/2012 9:29:00 AM

Loews Hotels aims to become a more familiar brand by way of portfolio growth, and newly appointed CEO Paul Whetsell said there are opportunities for acquisition and ground-up development.

11 issues hotels will face in 2012

1/4/2012 8:36:00 AM

From data crunching to OTAs to having a new consumer group to deal with, hoteliers will face plenty of hurdles during 2012—but what’s so new about that?

5 pressing hotel security concerns for 2012

1/4/2012 8:25:00 AM

With a new year comes news challenges for hotel security professionals. Here are five of the most pressing.

The trends in STR’s 2011 Trend Reports

1/4/2012 7:57:00 AM

Here’s a snapshot of the most and least requested markets and brands, among other tidbits of STR Trend Report trivia.

‘CapEx Conundrum’ requires balancing act

1/4/2012 7:01:00 AM

Capital expenditures are expected to increase for the first time since 2008. Those looking for easy answers to the questions of “How much?” and “Who’s going to pay?” will be disappointed.

Loews names Paul Whetsell to CEO

1/3/2012 12:57:00 PM

Paul Whetsell most recently served as a member of the board of directors for Virgin Hotels. He founded CapStar Hotel Company in 1987 and spent time as chairman of Interstate Hotels & Resorts.

LaSalle acquires Park Central for US$396.2m

1/3/2012 10:21:00 AM

The deal for the 934-room hotel was financed with cash on hand, borrowings from LaSalle Hotel Properties' senior unsecured credit facility, and the issuance of 296,300 operating partnership units valued at US$27 per share.

5 things to know: 3 January 2012

1/3/2012 9:23:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Strategic approach needed for 2012 social-media success;
• IHG lifting reward rates for 25% of hotels;
• hotel owners, operators react to Bill Marriott stepping down;
• states could see demand lift from primaries; and
• China Lodging Group shuffles leadership team.

Marriott owners react to Bill Marriott’s move

1/3/2012 9:07:00 AM

As J.W. “Bill” Marriott prepares to step down as CEO of Marriott International and transition into the role of executive chairman, Marriott-branded property owners and operators reflect on his contributions to the hotel industry.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

1/3/2012 8:31:00 AM

In this roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: Accor sells a 52.6% stake in Hotel Formula 1; Marriott execs are bullish on Africa; and a roundup of development news from the region.

The what, why and how of hotel connectivity

1/3/2012 7:55:00 AM

During the past several years, there has been a lot of discussion and focus on connectivity in the world of hotel electronic distribution. But exactly what is connectivity, and what is the benefit?

5 social-media resolutions for hoteliers

1/3/2012 7:40:00 AM

Don’t call it the Wild Wild West anymore. Social-media success in 2012 requires a strategic, top-down approach with goals and outcomes in mind.

US primary election impact on hotel demand

1/3/2012 7:04:00 AM

The Republican presidential nomination contest is heating up. But is it having a correlating impact on the hotel industries in states that host primary elections?

5 things to know: 30 December 2011

12/30/2011 10:25:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• International tourism spending in U.S. on record pace;
• STR weekly performance data for U.S. and Canada;
• IHG to exceed US$130m in mobile bookings in 2011;
• survey: New Year’s Eve room rates soar in NYC; and
• U.S. economy gaining momentum

2011 Year in Review

12/30/2011 7:55:00 AM

Google’s Hotel Finder experiment went live in late July with mostly OTAs and CRS providers supplying rates and availability, as reported in the 25 February article “Hoteliers on board with new Google features.” Today, several major hotel chains appear in searches as well.

Canada results for week ending 24 December

12/30/2011 7:42:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 18-24 December, according to data from STR.

STR: US results for week ending 24 December

12/30/2011 7:23:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 18-24 December, according to data from STR.

Google Hotel Finder revisited

12/30/2011 7:02:00 AM

5 things to know: 29 December 2011

12/29/2011 10:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Abu Dhabi hotel guest numbers up 16% in 11 months;
• brands dominate social-media platforms;
• US unemployment claims up;
• hotel investment to grow in Central and Eastern Europe; and
• how to optimize a pay per click budget.

Rewriting a revenue manager’s job description

12/29/2011 7:42:00 AM

Panelists on a recent webinar said today’s revenue managers are changing an “old-school” mentality about their profession by presenting alternative pricing and distribution solutions.

Hoteliers follow Facebook with booking engines

12/29/2011 7:07:00 AM

Hoteliers began incorporating Facebook booking engines in earnest during 2011, as reported in the 23 March article “Facebook leads to hotel room revenue.” But at least one consultant says they have little to show for it.

5 things to know: 28 December 2011

12/28/2011 10:03:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Expedia launches verified reviews program;
• Chesapeake acquires NYC Holiday Inn for US$52.2m;
• HVS: investment sentiment in France conservatively optimistic;
• consumer confidence increases in December; and
• CNNMoney: U.S. economists more hopeful about economy.

Renovation financing remains limited

12/28/2011 7:49:00 AM

After the 29 March article “Options limited for owners facing renovations," few lenders opened their floodgates throughout 2011. And brands are knocking even harder on the door with required capital improvements.

The spirit of giving back

12/28/2011 7:11:00 AM

Organizations such as the Atlanta Hospitality Alliance, the Network of Executive Women in Hospitality, Motel 6 and TownePlace Suites by Marriott show the true meaning of the holiday season. Tell us how your group compares.

Chesapeake buys NYC Holiday Inn for US$51.2m

12/27/2011 2:51:00 PM

Chesapeake Lodging Trust acquired the 122-room Holiday Inn New York City Midtown-31st Street for approximately US$428,000 per room.

5 things to know: 27 December 2011

12/27/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR Global releases November hotel performance results;
• Residence Inn to expand and launch “Possibilities” prototype;
• HVS: European hotel board effectiveness improves;
• Ascend Collection reports record growth in 2011; and
• Priceline.com and agoda.com release top New Year’s Eve destinations.

Choice, Summit move on after dust up

12/27/2011 7:46:00 AM

Choice Hotels International and Summit Hotel Properties each have focused on growth since Choice stripped Summit of 11 franchise licenses, which was reported in the 30 March article “11 Choice-branded hotels lose franchise licenses.”

Residence Inn looks forward to possibilities

12/27/2011 6:59:00 AM

With new leader Diane Mayer in place, Marriott International's upper-end extended-stay brand looks to expand its global presence while launching a new room prototype aimed at maintaining its brand-wide consistency.

5 things to know: 22 December 2011

12/22/2011 10:07:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Supreme Court will hear hotel financing case;
• U.S. unemployment claims drop to 2008 levels;
• weekly performance data for U.S., Canada;
• deal volume will peak in the select-service sector in 2012; and
• U.S. conference centers show recovery in performance.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for Nov.

12/22/2011 10:07:00 AM

Hotels in the Asia/Pacific region experienced positive results in the three key performance metrics during November 2011 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR Global: Europe results for Nov.

12/22/2011 9:50:00 AM

The European hotel industry posted positive results in year-over-year metrics when reported in U.S. dollars, euros and British pounds for November 2011, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR: US results for week ending 17 Dec.

12/22/2011 9:42:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 11-17 December 2011, according to data from STR.

STR Global: MEA hotel results for Nov.

12/22/2011 9:37:00 AM

The region's occupancy fell 4.3%, its ADR increased 3.5% and its RevPAR was down 1% in November.

STR Global: Americas hotel results for Nov.

12/22/2011 9:11:00 AM

The region's occupancy rose 4.4%, its ADR was up 4.1% and its RevPAR increased 8.6%,

Canada results for week ending 17 December

12/22/2011 8:59:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 11-17 December, according to data from STR.

HSMAI Europe plans rev management event

12/22/2011 7:28:00 AM

Revenue Management 2.0 is scheduled for 9 February 2012 in London.

Virgin Hotels development strategy revisited

12/22/2011 7:12:00 AM

Virgin Hotels’ patient approach to development, as reported in the 9 June article “Virgin taking deliberate steps in launch plan,” paid off with an acquisition of the Old Dearborn Bank Building in downtown Chicago.

5 things to know: 21 December 2011

12/21/2011 10:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases monthly performance data for November;
• Blackstone CEO sheds light on company’s investment strategy;
• TripAdvisor begins trading as an independent public company;
• British consumers use m-commerce in booking process; and
• companies expected to manage travel differently in 2012.

8 US hotel recovery trends revisited

12/21/2011 9:16:00 AM

As part of our year-in-review coverage, HotelNewsNow.com will update the most-read articles from the year. Today, STR’s Bobby Bowers revisits key recovery drivers from the 23 May article “8 trends shaping the US hotel recovery.”

STR: US hotel performance for November

12/21/2011 9:12:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry in November reported increases in all three key performance metrics, according to data from STR.

San Francisco hotels lead Nov. ADR, RevPAR

12/21/2011 9:03:00 AM

The market’s ADR increased 19.5% to US$158.42, its RevPAR was up 31.4% to US$118.78 and its occupancy rose 10% to 75%.

Segmentation trends: Group vs. transient

12/21/2011 7:14:00 AM

Given the favorable hotel market conditions, the time to monetize group demand is now.

5 things to know: 20 December 2011

12/20/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hotels should close out 2011 on a positive note;
• Iberostar inks US$120m deal with Thomas Cook;
• JLLH: Rooftop bar revenues reaching new heights;
• top three social-media strategies for brands; and
• airport frustrations remain high with holiday travelers.

Hotels will close out 2011 on a good note

12/20/2011 9:34:00 AM

According to a survey conducted by AAA and forward-looking booking data from Pegasus Solutions, holiday travel between 23 December and 2 January nearly will approach 2006 peaks.

Hotel logic vs. real-estate logic in Brazil

12/20/2011 9:02:00 AM

For Brazil’s hotel industry to succeed in this next wave of development, investors must scrutinize which opportunities are good for hotel development versus which are good for real-estate development.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

12/20/2011 8:36:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Chinese outbound tourism is up in Q3; Accor acquires a 48-hotel management portfolio; and HNA calls off deal with NH Hoteles.

Iberostar inks US$120m deal with Thomas Cook

12/20/2011 7:18:00 AM

The Spanish hotel company will purchase a 51% share in five hotels and a golf course from the troubled British tour operator’s portfolio.

The 7 steps of hotel innovation

12/20/2011 7:01:00 AM

The need for innovation seems to be in vogue these days. Here’s how to make it happen at your hotel company.

5 things to know: 19 December 2011

12/19/2011 10:08:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• column: revenue managers should be empowered;
• Expedia offers tips for capturing last-minute holiday guests;
• Hotel AG expects to close 78 deals in early 2012;
• Romania’s hotel tax will be 1% beginning in 2012; and
• two more Mint Hotels convert to DoubleTree.

Gothenburg hotels buoyed by corporate demand

12/19/2011 9:26:00 AM

Gothenburg has a strong business demand base all year round, as well as a strong leisure demand in the summer months generated by various sporting, cultural and music-related events and festivals.

The future of revenue management is now

12/19/2011 9:02:00 AM

Winning hotel companies will be those that have the right revenue managers to lead the way.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for November

12/19/2011 8:30:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 494 hotels, according to the November STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe hotel pipeline for November

12/19/2011 8:21:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 139,006 rooms, according to the November STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Gothenburg, Sweden, hotels poised for growth

12/19/2011 8:18:00 AM

Reports from Colliers International Hotels and HVS in London show strong recovery in the Gothenburg hotel market. But several new projects will put pressure on rate in the years ahead.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for November

12/19/2011 8:15:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,443 hotels, according to the November STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Italy reports favorable results YTD October

12/19/2011 7:57:00 AM

Hotel performance in Italy showed a generally favorable view, as measured by year-on-year percentage change for the year-to-date October 2011.

Hotels reaping benefit of holiday parties

12/19/2011 7:44:00 AM

Hoteliers who marketed hosting holiday parties this past summer—particularly with a "Christmas in July" theme—are seeing dramatic sales increases this year.

UPDATE: Marriott fires back with Waikiki suit

12/16/2011 10:45:00 AM

In a lawsuit filed this month, Marriott International claims Aqua Hotels & Resorts persuaded the owner of the former Waikiki Edition to switch management companies, resulting in a loss of at least US$65 million for Marriott.

5 things to know: 16 December 2011

12/16/2011 10:08:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott lobs bombshell at Aqua in Waikiki;
• Accor buys 48-hotel management portfolio;
• Chinese outbound tourism up 26% in Q3;
• STR Global reports Americas pipelines; and
• HVS: U.K. hotel sector fate tied to debt financing.

Stock update: Ashford, Marcus, Strategic, more

12/16/2011 10:01:00 AM

Included in this week’s stock update: Ashford Hospitality Trust focuses on upcoming debt maturities; The Marcus Corporation releases second-quarter results; and Strategic Hotels & Resorts reduces and extends its preferred stock tender offer.

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

12/16/2011 9:10:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 28,958 rooms, according to the November STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR reports Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for Nov.

12/16/2011 9:00:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 131 hotels, according to the November STR Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: US results for week ending 10 December

12/16/2011 8:43:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 4-10 December, according to data from STR.

You said it: 16 December 2011

12/16/2011 8:22:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of intriguing comments and quotes: Expedia Worldwide’s president comments on the company’s new-found attitude; and a reader advises hoteliers to monitor their usage of opaque sites.

A wish list for the US hotel industry

12/16/2011 8:13:00 AM

With a new year come new opportunities. Here is my wish list for the hotel industry during 2012.

Accor acquires 48-hotel management portfolio

12/16/2011 7:43:00 AM

Accor strengthened its position in Australia and New Zealand with the acquisition of Mirvac, a hotel management company, with 48 hotels in its portfolio.

Forget appraisals; retain those in the know

12/16/2011 7:32:00 AM

Appraisals go stale the minute they’re issued, and they typically lack key market insight. If you really want to know whether a project makes sense, retain a senior hotel industry consultant.

HVS: Financing key to UK hotel sector success

12/16/2011 7:11:00 AM

An improved outlook for the UK's hotel sector into 2012 will depend largely on investments from traditional sources such as banks, but also new sources such as institutional investors.

Canada results for week ending 10 December

12/15/2011 9:39:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 4-10 December 2011, according to data from STR.

5 things to know: 15 December 2011

12/15/2011 9:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. jobless claims hit three-year low;
• New Orleans tops weekly performance;
• Schulze’s partner provides buying clout;
• survey: hotel reviews increasingly important; and
• travel buyers still not green, survey finds.

New Orleans hotels top weekly performance gains

12/15/2011 9:34:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 16.3% to 69.8%, its ADR was up 25.1% to US$136.23 and its RevPAR increased 45.5% to US$95.14.

Ashford managing debt maturities

12/15/2011 9:10:00 AM

Having already restructured its US$203.4-million mortgage loan, Ashford Hospitality Trust is talking with lenders about the REIT’s 2012 debt.

Expedia finds value in Facebook users

12/15/2011 9:03:00 AM

Expedia reported a significant lift in transactions on Expedia.com as a result of its Expedia FriendTrips sweepstakes held on Facebook earlier this year.

Schulze’s new partner provides buying clout

12/15/2011 8:57:00 AM

Partnering with private equity firm Stoneleigh Capital gives Horst Schulze the capital clout he needs to ramp up expansion of his Capella Hotel Group, formerly West Paces Hotel Group.

Mike Leven bullish on Las Vegas group demand

12/15/2011 7:37:00 AM

What better person to ask about the future of group business demand than the president and COO of Las Vegas Sands Corporation?

5 things to know: 14 December 2011

12/14/2011 9:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Sorenson named Marriott’s CEO;
• Italy’s tourism code misses the mark;
• euro hovering near 2011 low;
• big changes at Schulze’s West Paces; and
• demand on the rise for Brazil’s resorts.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

12/14/2011 9:37:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: Weekly performance in the Americas region is rising; PKF forecasts a continued recovery; and Arne Sorenson is named Marriott International’s new CEO.

Mixed fortunes for Australian hotel performance

12/14/2011 9:23:00 AM

Australian hotel performance presented a mixed picture across the major markets, reports STR Global, the leading provider of market data to the world’s hotel industry.

Preparing for 'Boutique 2.0' and beyond

12/14/2011 9:15:00 AM

Boutique is becoming the hotel type of choice for young professionals. The trick will be to create a highly personalized experience at each property as owners and operators become more organized behind the scenes.

Schulze’s West Paces partners with investor

12/14/2011 9:10:00 AM

In addition to changing its name from West Paces Hotel Group to Capella Hotel Group, Horst Schulze’s management company has partnered with a private equity firm to spur investment in its luxury brands.

FastBooking, STR Global annpartnership

12/14/2011 8:39:00 AM

FastBooking and STR Global announce a partnership accord through which they will work together to strengthen market knowledge of FastBooking hotel partners.

Apollo/Driftwood JV begin hotel search

12/14/2011 8:35:00 AM

The joint venture of Apollo Global Real Estate and Driftwood Hospitality Management has spent approximately US$40 million from its hotel acquisition fund.

Italy’s tourism code misses mark, hoteliers say

12/14/2011 8:29:00 AM

The Italian Code of Tourism was passed to remove a complex bureaucratic web that inhibited hotel performance, but its implementation might only exacerbate the problem.

Sorenson named Marriott's CEO

12/13/2011 5:47:00 PM

Marriott International president and COO Arne Sorenson will replace J.W. Marriott Jr. as the company's CEO on 31 March.

5 things to know: 13 December 2011

12/13/2011 9:59:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HNA nixes €431.6m deal with NH Hoteles;
• Host terminates Grand Hyatt D.C. acquisition;
• STR: U.S. pipeline falls 6.3% during November;
• PKF forecast shows ADR accelerating; and
• European owners largely optimistic about recovery.

Expedia: Commissions are ‘absolutely’ fair

12/13/2011 9:50:00 AM

Expedia is making significant investments to better its relationships with supplier partners—including a new-found attitude check—but don’t expect a narrowing of margins.

HNA calls off €431.6m deal with NH Hoteles

12/13/2011 9:33:00 AM

The deal, signed in May, would have had China-based tourism and airline company HNA acquire a 20% stake in Spanish chain NH Hoteles.

Red Roof’s NextGen to drive US$10 ADR premium

12/13/2011 8:42:00 AM

The economy brand’s recently announced NextGen prototype used years of consumer testing and feedback to yield an economy take on boutique.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for Nov. 2011

12/13/2011 6:51:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,861 projects totaling 310,196 rooms, according to the November 2011 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

5 things to know: 12 December 2011

12/12/2011 10:11:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Expedia touts global reach;
• OTAs among Google’s biggest advertisers;
• Ashford restructures US$203.4m mortgage loan;
• mystery trips provide opaque alternative; and
• Indian rupee hits record low.

Mystery travel: A new distribution channel

12/12/2011 9:35:00 AM

Mystery trips are one of the latest travel trends to hit North America, and hoteliers around the globe are capitalizing on the opportunity to sell their inventory in an opaque manner.

Expedia touts global reach

12/12/2011 9:28:00 AM

As the world gets smaller, visa programs simplify and new travel classes emerge, Expedia executives are shifting their focus to driving increased global demand.

Cold showers and the future of sustainability

12/12/2011 8:27:00 AM

As sustainability permeates business and society, hotel guests are more inclined to question “green” initiatives that ask them to sacrifice parts of their stay.

Ashford restructures US$203m loan

12/12/2011 7:49:00 AM

The restructuring extends the maturity date of the loan and provides for a new interest rate equal to LIBOR plus 4.5% with no LIBOR floor.

Sonnenblick on land acquisition spree

12/12/2011 7:44:00 AM

Sonnenblick Development LLC is in land-acquisition mode and plans to develop seven resort properties in the United States.

Opportunity abounds in India’s religious circuit

12/12/2011 7:42:00 AM

Global chains are trying to carve off their piece of the approximately 450 million domestic tourists who took a religious pilgrimage in India during 2010.

5 things to know: 9 December 2011

12/9/2011 10:58:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases preliminary November 2011 U.S. lodging data;
• Hotel lenders increasingly opting to avoid foreclosure;
• Strategic extends preferred shares offering;
• US$2 trillion of global real estate up for sale; and
• seasonally adjusted weekly unemployment claims down.

Stock update: Accor, Starwood, Strategic

12/9/2011 8:38:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the sector’s publicly traded companies: Accor sells a stake in Hotel Formula 1; Starwood acquires a stake in Design Hotels AG; and Strategic extends its offering to purchase preferred shares.

STR: US results for week ending 3 December

12/9/2011 8:35:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry's occupancy fell 2.7%, ADR was up 2.7% and RevPAR increased 5.4%.

Expedia needs you

12/9/2011 8:11:00 AM

It’s evident that Expedia is worried about Google’s entrance into the travel-distribution space and needs backup heading into that fight.

You said it: 9 December 2011

12/9/2011 8:05:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of intriguing comments and quotes: A CEO explains his position on development in Iraq; a reader stresses the importance of training management-level employees.

Vantage entrusts CRS to Sabre to boost bookings

12/9/2011 7:22:00 AM

Vantage Hospitality Group on Wednesday announced a partnership with Sabre Hospitality Solutions to expand the former’s booking capabilities on social media and mobile.

5 things to know: 8 December 2011

12/8/2011 9:52:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Vantage CEO open to adding another brand;
• U.S. and Canada report weekly performance gains;
• Accor sells 52.6% stake in Hotel Formula 1;
• 170 hotels planned to open in U.K. in 2012; and
• Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels names new global CEO.

Vantage CEO open to adding another brand

12/8/2011 9:39:00 AM

During the company’s annual conference, CEO Roger Bloss said Vantage Hospitality could acquire, or even launch, a brand to complement the existing chains in its portfolio.

Canada results for week ending 3 December

12/8/2011 9:33:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 27 November-3 December 2011, according to data from STR.

Accor sells 52.6% stake in Hotel Formula 1

12/8/2011 9:28:00 AM

Accor announced today the sale of its 52.6% stake in Hotel Formula 1 to its historical South-African partner, Southern Sun Hotels, a subsidiary of the Tsogo Sun group.

New Orleans tops weekly hotel increases

12/8/2011 9:04:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 14.4%, its ADR was up 17.5% and its RevPAR increased 34.4%.

Strategy helps speed meetings business recovery

12/8/2011 8:44:00 AM

Strategic meetings management creates both opportunity and challenges for hoteliers in the post-recession era.

A customer is for life, not just for the holiday

12/8/2011 8:37:00 AM

The holidays can prove stressful for operators but also profitable. Here are some tips to make it a season to remember.

Hotel demand up in key central African cities

12/8/2011 8:33:00 AM

Hotel demand grew strongly across the three main economic centres in Western and Eastern Africa for year-to-date October 2011, compared to the previous year, according to data from STR Global.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index down 2.7% in Nov.

12/8/2011 8:24:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended November with a 2.7% decrease to 1,951.

Hotel Price Index: A look at Rome

12/7/2011 1:03:00 PM

According to the latest Hotel Price Index report from STR Global and Horwath HTL, Rome remains at the top of the most-visited cities in Italy, followed by Venice and Milan.

UK hotels unfazed by public-sector strike

12/7/2011 10:04:00 AM

Tens of thousands of public-sector workers in the U.K. went on strike last week, though the impact on hotels was minimal, if anything.

5 things to know: 7 December 2011

12/7/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• TripAdvisor spinoff from Expedia approved;
• tough goings for hotel IPOs in 2012;
• new austerity budget pushes Ireland’s VAT to 23%;
• Google cost per click down through third quarter; and
• UK public-sector strike had little impact on hotels.

IPO landscape bleak for foreseeable future

12/7/2011 8:36:00 AM

Hilton Worldwide still tops the list of high-profile hotel companies that are rumored to go public, but according to analysts, it’s difficult to get investors excited about any hotel stock today.

‘Tis the season (all year long) to give back

12/7/2011 7:26:00 AM

Charitable outreach doesn’t have to stop after the holidays. Here are a few resources to keep your team involved all year long.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

12/6/2011 10:31:00 AM

The development announcements continue to heat up in Europe as major global brands bounce back from recession.

5 things to know: 6 December 2011

12/6/2011 10:15:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Protests a drag on Cairo hotels;
• Deloitte study: 2012 business travel looking strong;
• panelists: Capital available for global luxury hotels;
• Starwood buys nearly 50% stake in Design Hotels; and
• Finland hotels showing strength.

Cairo hotels struggle after protests

12/6/2011 9:55:00 AM

Hoteliers had expectations of strong end-of-year hotel performance in Cairo, but November’s protests eliminated expectations for recovery.

Hyatt House design shakes up segment

12/6/2011 9:39:00 AM

Looking to rebrand its extended-stay portfolio, Hyatt Hotels Corporation creates a home-like feel with its Hyatt House concept.

Luxury hotel executives like the current trends

12/6/2011 9:00:00 AM

Speaking during last month’s European Hotel Investment Conference, several luxury-hotel executives said properties in key gateway cities are performing well, and they’re looking forward to a robust 2012.

Finland reports growth in performance results

12/6/2011 8:39:00 AM

The Finnish hotel industry is showing growth across the board in year-to-date 2011 performance results in all three key performance metrics, according to data from STR Global.

Starwood buys near 50% stake in Design Hotels

12/6/2011 7:09:00 AM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has acquired a 49.8% stake in Design Hotels AG, a company that represents and markets independent hotels.

5 things to know: 5 December 2011

12/5/2011 11:09:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Western hotel brands establishing presence in Iraq;
• North American airline cancellations down in November;
• Four Seasons moving forward with global development;
• Brazil, Mexico highlight development in Americas region; and
• setting and achieving revenue management goals.

Four Seasons’ global expansion moves forward

12/5/2011 10:45:00 AM

President and CEO Kathleen Taylor sees the company’s 86-property portfolio expanding to 150 by mixing resorts with a strong collection of urban hotels.

Hilton looks to grow in North America

12/5/2011 9:45:00 AM

Matthew Sparks, Hilton Worldwide’s new VP of luxury and corporate development, sees potential in growing Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria and Conrad luxury brands globally and domestically.

International brands see progress in Iraq

12/5/2011 9:36:00 AM

Hilton Worldwide has signed a deal, and Best Western International and Marriott International have each signed two deals in Erbil, Iraq. But management will not come without challenges.

Development execs detail Americas plans

12/5/2011 8:11:00 AM

Hotel development experts are bullish on the Americas region, especially Brazil and Mexico.

Data shows full recovery still far away

12/2/2011 9:55:00 AM

Most expectations are that the U.S. hotel industry won’t be back to pre-recession levels until 2013. Adjusted with inflation, it could be even longer.

5 things to know: 2 December 2011

12/2/2011 9:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Data shows full recovery still far away;
• Starwood board approves US$250-million share repurchase;
• survey shows how consumers react to poor mobile sites;
• U.S. unemployment hits lowest mark since March 2009; and
• Hampton portfolio in England for sale after foreclosure.

STR: US results for week ending 26 November

12/2/2011 9:09:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 20-26 November 2011, according to data from STR.

Moving from online channels to ecosystems

12/2/2011 8:38:00 AM

Online travel agencies, brand.com, social media, mobile apps and websites—they’re all interconnected parts of the booking process.

You said it: 2 December 2011

12/2/2011 8:07:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of comments and quotes: A GM stresses the importance of multicultural marketing; a commenter is appalled by a new third-party’s approach to scoring deals for travelers.

Lift hotel standards with constant reinforcement

12/2/2011 7:41:00 AM

Just like a concert pianist who has to practice the pieces played in concert regularly, hotel service standards must be continuously reinforced to keep staff performing at peak levels.

5 things to know: 1 December 2011

12/1/2011 9:50:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• UK travel disrupted amid pension reform strike;
• despite holiday, weekly metrics up in U.S. and Canada;
• extended-stay RevPAR expected to outpace industry;
• AmEx: Global meetings demand on the rise; and
• stats on email opens, click activity on mobile devices.

STR: Canada results for week ending 26 November

12/1/2011 9:01:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 20-26 November, according to data from STR.

Upper-midscale hotels top ADR, RevPAR increases

12/1/2011 8:27:00 AM

The upper-midscale segment's ADR rose 3.9% and its RevPAR increased 9.4% during the week of 20-26 November.

London's hotel profits stay on par

12/1/2011 8:02:00 AM

A combination of new supply and the macroeconomic environment have challenged hotel profitability in London in recent years, according to a report from STR Global and Whitebridge Hospitality.

TravelClick: ‘Focus on numbers, not news’

12/1/2011 7:56:00 AM

Kristi White of TravelClick said hoteliers in most regions are doing a good job of not overreacting to discouraging economic headlines and instead are choosing to hold rates.

Extended-stay 2012 RevPAR to outpace industry

12/1/2011 7:16:00 AM

Extended-stay hotels’ relatively large share of business travelers and of revenues from the top 25 U.S. markets should cushion the anticipated slowdown in the rate of RevPAR increases.

Hotels feeling health-care reform effects

12/1/2011 7:03:00 AM

Hotels saw premiums rise by 3% to 4% as President Obama’s health-care reform plan continued its phase-in.

Hotel execs duke it out in Vegas

12/1/2011 6:31:00 AM

Hotel executives from across the industry battled it out inside a boxing ring in Las Vegas last month—and yours truly had a ringside seat.

Fall travel season to drive 4% ADR growth

11/29/2011 10:41:00 AM

Despite muted growth in committed occupancy, ADR for the North American hotel industry is expected to end the fourth quarter with a 4% increase over the previous year, according to forward-booking data from TravelClick.

Attorneys: St. Regis judgment could be landmark

11/29/2011 10:24:00 AM

Attorneys said the US$44-million lawsuit won by Castillo Grand LLC against Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide should serve as a warning about entering into a development project without clearly defined design guidelines in place.

5 things to know: 29 November 2011

11/29/2011 10:11:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Attorneys: St. Regis suit could be landmark;
• how American Airlines’ bankruptcy will affect you;
• TravelClick expects bump in fall season ADR, RevPAR;
• improving fundamentals in commercial real estate; and
• China Lodging Group’s RevPAR up 6% over last month.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

11/29/2011 10:04:00 AM

In this roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: The Middle East sees performance rise in October; Sun Resorts Limited posts a larger third-quarter loss; and opening and development news from across the region.

7 tech issues that keep your GM up at night

11/29/2011 9:44:00 AM

Owners must understand these technology-related issues that trouble GMs and, more importantly, guests.

Important insights into the OTA-supplier debate

11/29/2011 9:16:00 AM

An objective journalist poses two questions regarding the OTA-supplier relationship: 1) Who ultimately is the “supplier?” and 2) Is the relationship stymied by a generation gap?

How to manage hotel ownership transitions

11/29/2011 8:25:00 AM

Buyers and sellers must be committed to ensure a seamless transition from one owner to the next. Here’s how to make that happen.

The why, when and extent of hotel repositionings

11/29/2011 8:16:00 AM

As owners reevaluate portfolios in the new normal, many might consider repositioning their assets to various levels of extent.

5 things to know: 28 November 2011

11/28/2011 10:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Owner awarded US$44m in Starwood contract dispute;
• weekly performance results for U.S. and Canada;
• Louvre Hotels, Jin Jiang Inn partner for reservations;
• Pillar will terminate management contracts at seven hotels; and
• report: Interstate is preparing to go public.

STR: Canada results for week ending 19 November

11/28/2011 9:51:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 13-19 November 2011, according to data from STR.

STR: US results for week ending 19 November

11/28/2011 9:40:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry's occupancy rose 4.1%, its ADR was up 3.7% and its RevPAR increased 7.9% during the week of 13-19 November.

How to target diverse hotel market segments

11/28/2011 8:58:00 AM

Panelists during an IHM&RS session on marketing to multicultural traveler segments shared key insights and best practices.

Castillo Grand wins US$44m against Starwood

11/28/2011 8:52:00 AM

Castillo Grand LLC has obtained a US$44 million award against Sheraton Operating Corp as a result of Sheraton’s multiple breaches of its management contract with the owners and developers of the former St. Regis Hotel and Resorts.

Hotel price optimization strategies are key

11/28/2011 8:42:00 AM

Experts during an HSMAI University webinar outlined key points to help revenue managers optimize room rates as demand continues to increase into 2012.

Multicultural marketing key to new hotel demand

11/28/2011 8:20:00 AM

The face of the American traveler is changing and hoteliers need to speak to these emerging, diverse market segments to secure new business.

5 things to know: 23 November 2011

11/23/2011 9:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Host closes on US$1b credit facility;
• Bangkok floods create operational headaches;
• Apple exec provides affirmation to hoteliers;
• social media lacks loyalty, survey finds; and
• U.S. unemployment claims slightly up.

Challenges remain as waters recede in Bangkok

11/23/2011 9:22:00 AM

While the floodwaters are beginning to pull back, Bangkok’s hoteliers still face a bevy of operational challenges that are impeding recovery and performance.

The fight for guests heats up

11/23/2011 9:17:00 AM

A new third-party intermediary that allows hoteliers essentially to steal guests from hotels down the street could take the street-corner business from competitive to cut throat.

Holistic approach crucial in hotel turnarounds

11/23/2011 7:53:00 AM

An experienced management team will implement a balanced approach that gives equal emphasis to revenue enhancement and expense-control management.

Development spotlight: The Siam, Bangkok

11/23/2011 7:44:00 AM

The Siam, a 39-room luxury property in Bangkok, is scheduled to open in March 2012.

5 things to know: 22 November 2011

11/22/2011 9:47:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR Global releases October hotel performance results;
• TravelClick: Thanksgiving travelers will give ADR a boost;
• U.K. hoteliers report blackmail attempts via TripAdvisor;
• new technologies to shake up distribution strategies; and
• HIL: U.S. hotel business activity up during October.

STR: US hotel performance for October

11/22/2011 9:24:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry in October reported increases in all three key performance metrics, according to data from STR.

5 standout innovations from PhoCusWright

11/22/2011 9:23:00 AM

A few technologies caught my eye at my first-ever PhoCusWright Conference. Should you consider adding them to your distribution strategy?

Bandwidth Reports provide complete view

11/22/2011 9:11:00 AM

STR Analytics’ Bandwidth Reports give subscribers a unique advantage to look at data beyond averages.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

11/22/2011 9:09:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Starwood hits a hotel milestone with its recent openings; China’s domestic hotel chains accelerate rapid growth into 2012; and flooding in Bangkok causes a decline in hotel performance.

Thanksgiving to drive ADR in top 25 US markets

11/22/2011 9:05:00 AM

More travelers are expected to hit the road during the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday weekend, driving ADR 4.7% compared to last year, reports TravelClick.

STR Global: MEA hotel results for October

11/22/2011 8:57:00 AM

The region's occupancy fell 3.4%, its ADR was up 7.3% and its RevPAR increased 3.6%.

STR Global: Europe hotel results for October

11/22/2011 8:42:00 AM

The European hotel industry reported positive performance results when reported in U.S. dollars, euros and British pounds for October.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific hotel results for Oct.

11/22/2011 8:30:00 AM

The region's occupancy fell 2%, its ADR increased 8.4% and its RevPAR was up 6.2% in October.

STR Global: Americas hotel results for October

11/22/2011 7:51:00 AM

The region's occupancy rose 2.8%, its ADR was up 4% and its RevPAR increased 6.9%.

Hotels revamp Black Friday, Cyber Monday deals

11/22/2011 7:49:00 AM

Hoteliers add unique offers and pull from what worked in previous years to offer Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals that compete with online flash-sale sites.

US hotel future business activity up in October

11/22/2011 7:30:00 AM

The Hotel Industry Leading indicator edged up 0.2% during October following a decrease of 0.4% during September.

5 things to know: 21 November 2011

11/21/2011 9:50:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. hotels report steady gains in October;
• Expedia CEO keeping a watchful eye on Google;
• hotel brands willing to fund key assets in Europe;
• social media, mobile and apps top of mind for hoteliers; and
• more bad news for shaky global economy.

Distribution leaders dish on evolving space

11/21/2011 9:23:00 AM

A who’s who of leaders in the travel distribution space discuss the supplier-OTA relationship, extending products to the social space, creating a travel-related business from scratch and more.

Adding key assets in Europe on brands’ radars

11/21/2011 9:10:00 AM

Executives from major hotel companies tell attendees of Deloitte’s European Hotel Investment Conference they’re always on the lookout for properties, even if it means leveraging their own balance sheets.

Upscale hotels lead ADR, RevPAR increases in Oct

11/21/2011 8:32:00 AM

The upscale segment's ADR rose 4.7% and its RevPAR increased 7.7% during October.

Ireland market boasts strong investment outlook

11/21/2011 7:47:00 AM

The Emerald Isle was hit hard by the global downturn, but a favourable investment environment fostered by pro-business government incentives bodes well for the hotel industry’s future.

5 things to know: 18 November 2011

11/18/2011 10:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• positives signs from European investment conference;
• lenders say deals still are getting done;
• JLLH: 38.6% more global investors have ‘buy’ strategy;
• survey says property values are heading upward; and
• Zell, Hilton buy Elysian in Chicago, will convert to Waldorf.

Hotel executives still see growing metrics

11/18/2011 9:50:00 AM

During this week’s European Hotel Investment Conference, leaders of Carlson Hotels Worldwide and InterContinental Hotels Group said they like the direction the hotel industry is headed and have big plans for some of their own brands.

Hilton takes steps to level OTA playing field

11/18/2011 9:43:00 AM

Speaking to an audience primarily made up of third-party intermediaries at the PhoCusWright Conference, Hilton’s Paul Brown defended suppliers by addressing pricing, distribution, reviews and more.

Panelists: Debt deals getting done

11/18/2011 9:33:00 AM

Volatility has rocked the hotel real-estate finance sector during the past three months, but that doesn’t mean the leverage well is dry, lenders said.

Stock update: Host, Supertel

11/18/2011 9:26:00 AM

Host prices an offering and Supertel gets a big South American investment in this week’s roundup of public hotel company news.

STR: US results week ending 12 November

11/18/2011 9:10:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 6-12 November, according to data from STR.

You said it: 18 November 2011

11/18/2011 7:52:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of comments and quotes: Marriott’s Ed Fuller offers advice to hotel-industry executives; a reader believes tourism in Morocco will be negatively impacted by the lack of quality customer service in the country.

What corporate hotel guests want

11/18/2011 7:45:00 AM

Business travellers have different needs and priorities than average leisure guests. Make sure you cover all these basics.