Automatic

4 min

Decentralization Is a Myth — But We Can Still Take Back Control

We’ve heard this promise before. The Internet was supposed to decentralize travel. Then came social media, metasearch, and the so-called “sharing economy.” Each new wave arrived with the same story: this time, hotels will finally connect directly with their guests again.

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3 min

HVS Europe Hotel Transactions Bulletin – Week Ending 21 November 2025

Leonardo Hotels, the European division of the Israeli owner-operator Fattal Hotel Group, has acquired three UK properties in separate single-asset transactions: the four-star, 270-room Leonardo Hotel Southampton, the four-star, 170-room Leonardo Hotel Exeter, and the four-star, 94-room Leonardo Hotel Chester. All three properties are situated in central locations and include a restaurant and bar. Leonardo had already been operating the hotels under FRI leases, and the Chester acquisition also includes three commercial units that are let to third-party tenants.

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3 min

Maestro PMS Launches Enhanced Online Gift Card Module to Help Hotels Strengthen Loyalty, Branding

Maestro PMS has recently enhanced its Online Gift Card module, giving independent hotels, luxury resorts, and multi-property groups new tools to grow guest loyalty, increase brand visibility, and drive repeat bookings throughout the year. With consumer demand for personalized digital gifting at an all-time high, this upgraded module empowers hoteliers to use gift cards as more than a point-of-sale transaction. Now, they serve as powerful tools for marketing, engagement, and revenue growth.

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2 min

GSTC in Practice: How GCSTIMES Helps Hotels Meet Section D

Last week, we took a quick look at the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and why it matters for hotels advancing environmental performance and responsible operations. This week, GCSTIMES is diving deeper into how we help hoteliers demonstrate alignment with GSTC.

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Gen Z reshapes expectations for business travel

How flexibility, sustainability, and real-time risk intelligence are redefining corporate travel programs Nov 25, 2025 Gen Z business travellers are driving a shift toward flexible, personalised, and environmentally conscious travel…

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Google keeps commercial model for agentic hotel booking

The company says its upcoming agentic booking capabilities in AI Mode for travel will largely mirror its current commercial model Nov 25, 2025 Google emphasizes maintaining an open ecosystem, minimizing…

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Cendyn brings hotel direct rates into AI search platforms

A new distribution path helps hotels regain visibility as travelers shift toward AI-powered trip planning Nov 25, 2025 Cendyn has launched AI Connect, a new distribution channel that pushes hotel…

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