A few months ago, travel forecasts were optimistic, growing, carefree. Consider the following developments: New brands were being introduced at a never before seen pace (e.g., Hilton’s Tru and MOTTO, IHG’s Avid and VOVO) Existing brands were being upgraded, new companies were getting into the travel business (e.g., LVMH’s acquisition of Belmond and launch of […]

We all crave good leadership and/or want to be that “person”. Especially in times of crisis when chaos seems to be swirling around us. As the lodging and F&B industry begins to reemerge from the pandemic induced shutdown, we will need true leadership. So, what does a good leader actually look like or act like? […]

What Makes for Successful Crisis Management? Whether you are responding to a potential pandemic, a natural catastrophe or a terrorist threat the opportunity for success is driven by preparedness. By this we mean proactive planning, mock drills, learning from history, constant review, updating and never letting your guard down – you can’t make it up […]

Over the years I have lived and worked through numerous crisis’s that have led to economic downturns – Gulf War (early 90’s), 9/11, SARS, the Housing Crisis in 2008, etc… and now COVID-19. I have made my share of mistakes, learned from those mistakes and also had my share of successes. Planning During SARS Let […]

Boutique hotel supply and demand is growing at a much faster pace than traditional branded hotels. According to the 2019 Boutique Hotel Study by the Highland Group, demand for boutique hotels grew at a year-over-year rate of more than 8 percent, while overall US hotel demand grew a mere 2 percent in 2018. A consumer […]

Disasters are inevitable. So, do you know what reports you will need to determine lost revenue after a disaster?  From a hotel owner perspective, coming up with fact-based hotel projections for lost revenue in the event of a disaster will ensure smooth discussions with your insurer and moving on with rebuilding your business as quickly […]

A hotel Owner faces many obstacles as revenues decline. As the economy slows and new supply enters the market, cash flows deteriorate, and tensions rise. Ensure you are aligned with the brand, lender and management company sooner than later.

There are two prominent styles for helping companies fill the gap:  Retained and Contingency executive search. Each has its own pros and cons so educate yourself before entering into a relationship with a recruiter, consultant or firm.

Have you thought about the next travel recession or are you just enjoying the good times? Get Your Contingency Plan Ready For a Crisis We know the hotel business is cyclical, so why are we always surprised when it is upon us? How many hotel recessions have you been through? Personally, I have lost count. […]

  For the love of incremental revenue, please say goodbye to the 4’s and 9’s with your hotel pricing strategy. Why do hotel prices frequently end in “9’? Traditionally, our hotel pricing strategy has been for rates to end in a “9” based on the psychology of getting as close to the next round number […]