The operation of a successful spa demands a combination of operational skills, systems and creative promotion. No longer is it possible to develop a spa or fitness/wellness facility and expect that “if I build it, they will come.” While all studies show that the addition of a spa positively impacts both occupancy and average daily […]

It is readily apparent that terrorist and active shooter events around the world have experienced s dramatic increase of late. Up until recently, 9/11 was looked upon as a one-time event and billions were subsequently spent to combat terrorism in the US. But the rise of ISIS, lone wolves and active shooters has not been […]

 Click here to download a PDF version of this case study, complete with graphic analyses. PROJECT SUMMARY The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company embarked on a three year program centered on reducing energy consumption. The purpose of the program was not only to reduce the portfolio’s energy consumption and cost, but also to raise the awareness of […]

Before I started my own business, I was heavily entrenched in the Marriott International corporate brass, where group meetings business accounts for 40% of the overall revenue for their US hotels. As a leader in marketing and e-commerce disciplines, my team’s focus was largely devoted to driving demand and revenue from the direct consumer segments […]

‘Book direct’ is the war cry of hotel owners, management company executives, chain CEOs and many marketing consulting groups. Like real war, the costs and benefits must be evaluated, particularly by those who will be paying for it – hotel owners. This is even more critical for a war that is unwinnable. “Wars are won […]

Having represented management companies and owner/developers in projects ranging from five-star mixed-use luxury branded resorts to limited-service highway franchised hotels, I have had the opportunity to work on many branded management agreements, third-party management agreements (non-branded) and franchise agreements. From my years of experience, I’ve compiled a list of key terms and tips for you […]

On a daily basis, I have the opportunity to interact with dozens of salespeople in a wide variety of locations. Over the years we have somehow gravitated from partnering with customers in building long-term relationships and account understanding to now taking orders in a more clinical, impersonal and highly transactional environment. However, customers still require […]

In dispute resolution it is important to recognize that emotions among and between the parties will run the gamut…from anger, fear, grief, humiliation, frustration, and even fatigue to elation, gratification, and appreciation. Mediators often find themselves in a paradoxical position – on one side encouraging and empathizing with productive and often intense emotions, and at […]

As a veteran hospitality consultant working out of Vancouver, British Columbia, I’m privy to some very interesting cases and projects throughout the Northwest that require highly creative solutions. Here is one instance that ended up a triumphant success because it creates an entirely new revenue stream for the property – one that would be foreign […]

Work-life planning is a perennial stressor. Not only are we overbooked, but we’re also trying to eat healthier than in past decades, save the planet, buy local and exercise more vigorously, while at the same time indulging ourselves and traveling adventurously.  We are looking for any and all ways for our needs to be met […]