Innovation

💻 HBX Group acquires Spanish tech firm Civitfun to enhance hotel operations by leveraging Civitfun's technology, which integrates with 60 PMS platforms and supports over 3,500 clients in 36 countries. The strategic move aims to improve guest experiences, optimize operations, and open new revenue streams. Effective immediately, HBX Group partners gain access to Civitfun's remote and onsite online check-in. This collaboration simplifies processes, reduces operational issues, and boosts efficiency in the hospitality sector.

🗺️ Global travel technology company Vibe has partnered with Hunter Travel Group (HTG) in Newcastle, New South Wales, to launch a new leisure travel platform, live at htg.com.au. Another platform for RACQ members, live at travel.racq.com.au, offers exclusive discounts. Both platforms enhance the booking experience using Vibe’s technology. HTG brands, including RACT, will undergo digital updates. This collaboration, praised by Martin Eade from Vibe and HTG CEO Brett Dann, elevates digital strategy for travelers in Australia.

📱 Clermont Hotel Group (CHG) partners with Obvlo, an AI digital concierge, to enhance guest experiences at Thistle branded hotels. Two London hotels, The Tower Hotel and The Marble Arch Hotel, are rebranded as ‘by Thistle’ for elevated location-led stays. Thistle's brand refresh includes a new website and property investments. Obvlo’s technology offers guests personalized, up-to-date London recommendations. Stuart Yeates, CCO of CHG, emphasizes personalized experiences, while James Parsons, CRO of Obvlo, highlights commitment to guest experience evolution.

📈 On May 15, 2025, Expedia Group unveiled new B2B APIs, advertising tools, and AI-powered features, following a year where B2B partnerships generated $4.1B, up 21% YoY. The expansion allows partners to access flights, cars, hotels, activities, and insurance, operating like OTAs and driving customer engagement with over 135 million room nights booked through partners in 2024. Expedia's integration with OpenAI and Microsoft Copilot enhances travel planning, while ACI optimizes dynamic video content. Partners can now use sponsored listings and loyalty features to promote bookings.

💻 The business travel market is expected to reach $2.1 trillion by 2031. Quality Wi-Fi and technologies such as Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, private 5G, and CBRS are crucial for hospitality providers to meet business travelers' needs. Integrated AI in network monitoring can autonomously control devices and predict occupancy patterns. Network-as-a-service (NaaS) offers scalable wireless connectivity without the need for extensive on-premises IT staff, with adjustments possible through software. Technology partnerships are essential for implementing these complex systems. The author, Steven Bronken, has 24 years of experience and specializes in guest networks and IT consulting.

💾 At MURTEC 2025, Jason Lechner of Pizza Ranch and Felicia White of Ascent Hospitality Management discussed how advanced training technologies in foodservice improve onboarding, skill-building, and employee retention. Key topics included the people-to-people aspect of the industry and the value of a well-trained team.

📲 Square launched Square Handheld, a portable POS device, today. Weighing 11 ounces, under an inch thick, with IP54 rating, 6.2" Gorilla Glass touchscreen, barcode scanning, 16 MP camera, full payment functionality, and integration with Square's software ecosystem. Square Handheld operates with the unified Square Point of Sale app, featuring seven customizable modes like Quick Service, Bar, and Retail. The device is essential for various businesses, especially restaurants and retailers, which composed 50% of Square's GPV in 2024. Available for $399, with Belkin SheerForce cases starting at $39. This release is part of Square Releases, a biannual product launch event.

🏡 UK: The 2025 Serviced Apartment Awards were held at the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane, celebrating their tenth milestone on May 2025. Over 250 international guests attended. The event was hosted by Jake Lambert and Eloise Hanson. Categories included Best Operator, Best Property, and Best Design. Winners included Sercasa, Urban Chic, and Staycity Group, among others. An Outstanding Achievement award was given to Marcus Angell of Habicus Group. Awards were judged by industry experts and SAN readers.

🏨 Ascott plans to open over 300 properties by 2028, creating more than 12,000 jobs, including 1,500 leadership roles. To support this, they launched Ascott Accelerate with three tracks: Aim, Advance, and Aspire, for leadership development. A digital platform complements the program, offering flexible learning in key operational areas. Ascott also promotes global exposure through the Ascott Global Exchange Programme and industry events. This strategic talent development aims to ensure sustainable growth in hospitality.