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Colin Tessier

47 posts
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  • 7 min

AHLA Advocates for Hotel Industry Amid Rising Costs, Tariffs, and Labor Challenges at Red Roof’s Ignite 2026 Conference

📈 Red Roof's Ignite 2026 Brand Conference took place at Signia by Hilton Diplomat Beach Resort, Hollywood, Florida. AHLA President Rosanna Maietta and Chief Advocacy Officer Brett Horton discussed rising costs and tariffs affecting the hotel industry. AHLA is focusing on federal and local advocacy, combating harmful tariffs, and supporting favorable tax policies. Labor costs are rising, influenced by political changes. Collaboration with AAHOA on the American Franchise Act is vital, and adapting to change is essential for hotel owners to thrive.
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  • 3 min

Red Roof Expands into Canada and Reports 44% Revenue Increase from Mobile App at Ignite 2026 Conference

📈 From October 1-3, 2026, Red Roof held its Ignite 2026 Brand Conference in Hollywood, Florida. President Zack Gharib reflected on Red Roof's 53-year history, highlighting recent growth and challenges like tight labor markets and rising costs. The company achieved strong guest satisfaction and expanded to new markets, including Canada with Red Roof PLUS+ Vancouver Airport. Technological investments, like HotelKey and FreedomPay, improved operations, while their app saw a 44% revenue increase. Gharib emphasized culture and strategic growth for future success.
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  • 3 min

Dellshire Resort Opens in Wisconsin Dells, First New-Build Resort in Over 20 Years Featuring Medieval Theme

🏟 Dellshire Resort opened in June in Wisconsin Dells, marking the first new resort in the area in over 20 years. The 208-room, medieval-themed resort was designed by ADCI, with Jason Ryan and Lauren Johnson leading the project. The design features Chilton Rustic stone and Hobbit-inspired furniture. A dragon statue in the lobby pond symbolizes the resort's theme, while chandeliers and a Persian-style carpet enhance the aesthetic. The project aimed for a storybook ambiance for all ages.
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  • 4 min

Hotel Equities Appoints Brian Jenkins as Head of HE Labs to Drive AI and Hyperpersonalization in Hospitality

💻 In May, Hotel Equities appointed Brian Jenkins as head of HE Labs, focusing on AI-driven solutions to enhance hotel performance. The team evaluates emerging technology based on scalability, complexity, and implementation timelines, aiming for 30-day builds. Successful pilots lead to broader deployment. Jenkins emphasizes AI's role in hyperpersonalization, tailoring guest experiences based on preferences. This approach aims to balance operational automation with maintaining a human touch in hospitality, leveraging technology to boost guest satisfaction and engagement.
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  • 4 min

Hotel Operators Boost Guest Experience with Hyper-Local Sourcing and Zero-Proof Beverages to Drive Revenue Growth

🍴 Hotel food and beverage (F&B) trends highlight hyper-local sourcing, chef collaborations, and sophisticated zero-proof cocktails, as explained by Dean Wendel, VP of F&B at Concord Hospitality. Operators should evaluate market needs and profitability before investing in elevated concepts. Success requires a commitment to service, social media, and community involvement. Zero-proof beverages must be creatively developed and priced appropriately, as 4 options are required per menu. Strategic collaborations enhance exposure and build repeat clientele.
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  • 6 min

Drey Hotel Expands with Terraces at The Drey in Dallas Through Adaptive Reuse of Office Building

🏨 Drey Hotel in The Village Dallas, Texas, expands with Terraces at The Drey—a new luxury hospitality concept using adaptive reuse of an office building. Initially a 38-room hotel three years ago, it now boasts 46 rooms, thanks to converting lofts above shops. The project capitalizes on 300-acre surroundings, offering unique rooms leveraging expansive windows and high ceilings. Emphasizing a resort-like experience, it integrates residential and hospitality elements, aiming to provide memorable guest experiences.
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  • 2 min

Palette Hotels Partners with Procure Impact to Enhance Guest Experience and Create 1,000 Annual Employment Hours

📈 Palette Hotels partners with Procure Impact to advance social procurement across its portfolio, integrating over 6,000 curated products in New York by year-end 2026. The collaboration supports social enterprises and local businesses, aiming to generate 1,000 hours of employment annually through the Dignity of Work Pledge, in partnership with the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Guests enjoy unique offerings while hotels gain added revenue, enhancing both guest experience and financial outcomes.
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  • 3 min

The Hotel at The University of Maryland Expands Appeal with 40,000 Sq Ft Meeting Space and Diverse Amenities

🏨 The Hotel at The University of Maryland adapts to diverse guests, offering amenities like a spa, fitness center, and four dining options. With 40,000 sq ft of meeting space, it attracts corporate and entrepreneurial travelers, hosting events such as the Quantum World Congress in September. Adriana Niepa emphasizes moving beyond university-focused business by meeting varied guest needs. University hotels are encouraged to expand amenities and survey guests to enhance appeal and stay duration.
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