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Luke Martin

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Marriott CEO Reports Middle East Travel Demand Softens Amid Iran Conflict, Impact Limited to Region So Far

🛠 Marriott International's CEO, Anthony Capuano, addressed travel disruptions in the Middle East due to the Iran war at a JPMorgan investor conference on Thursday. The war has led to cancellations and weaker bookings, but the impact is so far contained to the region. Marriott's Middle East presence includes 4% of its global room inventory and 7% of its development pipeline. Despite potential risks, Europe remains unaffected for now.
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Hilton Unveils Beta Version of AI Trip Planning Tool on Website for Early Stage Trip Planning

💻 Hilton has launched a beta version of an AI trip planning feature on its website, Hilton.com, allowing users to describe their trips with conversational prompts and receive curated suggestions from Hilton’s portfolio. This “generative AI-powered digital concierge” can highlight amenities and guide travelers through early trip planning. The feature will be initially available to a limited audience as hotel companies rethink how travelers search for and discover properties online.
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Accor Executive Warns Against Over-reliance on AI, Emphasizes Human Connection in Hospitality

📈 On Wednesday at ITB Berlin, Karelle Lamouche, a top executive at Accor, emphasized the risks of over-relying on AI in the hotel sector. She warned that AI could undermine the industry's essential human connection, which is crucial for benefiting hotel owners and enhancing guest experiences. This highlights a growing concern in the hospitality industry about balancing technology with personal interactions.
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Meliá’s Upmarket Bet Pays Off in Spain. Cuba Is Another Story

🏨 Meliá Hotels saw a 23.6% increase in net profit, surpassing €200 million in 2025. The company expects 2026 revenue per available room (RevPAR) to grow in the low- to mid-single-digit range. Spain is key, generating approximately 49% of its operating profit. The strategy focuses on higher rates and a premium brand mix, with partnerships over real estate investments. The company's performance in Cuba demonstrates sensitivity to external shocks.
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