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Robin McLaughlin

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  • 3 min

First Hospitality Helps Owners Enhance GEO for AI Searches

🏨 First Hospitality is implementing a new Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) Playbook to help hotels leverage AI-driven tools like ChatGPT and Gemini for better visibility. 📅 Currently deployed in 12 hotels, the program aims to enhance recognition by AI. Designed for easy adoption across different hotel types and budgets, the playbook aligns on-property leadership with GEO strategies. 📊 Early feedback is positive, with acknowledgment that measuring GEO's success, compared to traditional SEO, will take time.
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  • 9 min

Collaboration in Action: Smarter Sourcing and Procurement Partnerships Deliver Value for Hotels

💸 U.S. hotels have faced supply chain challenges since the COVID-19 pandemic. Product shortages hit in 2020, avian flu restrictions in 2022, and tariffs are a current concern. Ted Peters from Remington Hospitality says prices remain high, and delivery times can be long. Ashley King from Resolute Road Hospitality notes improved lead times and predictability. Jason LaBarge of Raines foresees possible procurement cost increases of 15-30% by 2025. GPOs like Foodbuy Hospitality help mitigate these issues through strategic partnerships.
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  • 3 min

Expert Perspectives on Building Alignment and Agility Across the Hospitality Sector

🏨 On day two of The Hospitality Show 2025, industry leaders highlighted profitability challenges due to a fragmented market. Jeanelle Johnson of PwC stressed the need for aligning owners, brands, and operators. Navin Dimond of Stonebridge noted a 1-3% top-line drop can cut the bottom line by up to 8%. Pete Sams of Highgate linked margin erosion to COVID-19's impact. Jeff Wagoner from OUTRIGGER mentioned an unusually fast industry cycle reset, while Greg Lattin of Marriott stressed owner-brand alignment.
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  • 3 min

Industry Leaders Examine Profitability Amid Uncertainty at The Hospitality Show

🏠 The Hospitality Show 2025 took place in Denver, Colorado, focusing on profitability amid uncertainty. Eileen Herzog, Avendra's VP, led discussions with industry leaders. Mitch Patel from Vision Hospitality Group emphasized long-term investment in the capital-intensive hospitality business. Thom Geshay of Davidson Hospitality Group and Keith Pierce from Sonesta highlighted the need for alignment among owners, brands, and managers to drive profitability. Patel suggested improvements like booking payments with cancellation fees and e-tipping to enhance the business model.
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  • 4 min

Charlestowne Hotels Strengthens Its F&B Strategy With New Vice President

📄 Last month, Charlestowne Hotels named Tom Roman as VP of Food & Beverage. With 20+ years of experience, including roles at Life House/Lark Hospitality, he aims to streamline operations and boost guest experiences. Roman focuses on authenticity, partnerships, and innovation. He prioritizes employee relationships and standardized systems to enhance efficiency. Key trends include chef-driven concepts and evolving service models. Roman emphasizes creating meaningful guest experiences and advocates for fair, sustainable wages for frontline staff.
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