Innovation

🗺 The Osaka Group's new platform, Osaka Connect Dot Com, launched to unify the travel ecosystem, offers 24 products in one place including flights, hotels, and visas. Available in over 120 countries, it features AI-driven automation for real-time integration and multi-currency support. With dynamic pricing and tailored markups, it aims to revolutionize travel management for B2B and B2E markets, providing a smarter, connected experience akin to Amazon in the travel industry.

📅 Mindtrip, an AI-powered tool from San Francisco, launched B2B products to help hotels personalize guest experiences. The platform provides tailored recommendations for local attractions, dining, and activities, enhancing guest engagement pre-stay. Hotels use Mindtrip’s code snippets and templates for integration, offering a seamless experience. Magic Links and geo boundaries connect guests with trusted local partners. The Landsby praises its intuitive setup, launched in weeks, enhancing customer service and marketing expansion.

💳 Mews launched a Zero Dollar Authorization feature to verify guest cards without charging, reducing failed payments and chargebacks for hotels. The feature aims to provide smoother payments and protect revenue without third-party providers. Susanne Sandler of Mews emphasizes its frictionless nature and profitability. Lacey King from Seattle's The Maxwell Hotel highlights time-saving and reliability benefits. Mews also introduces preauthorization to ensure funds availability.

🏖️ Paradise Point Resort & Spa in San Diego, managed by Davidson Resorts, completed its conference center renovation, enhancing over 60,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor spaces with coastal-inspired design. Featuring flexible layouts, improved technology, and sustainable elements, the resort's updated venues include the Paradise Ballroom and the Sunset Ballroom with panoramic views of Mission Bay. Eco-friendly upgrades include LED lighting and energy-efficient materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.

💻 Major hotel groups are capitalizing on hyperautomation by employing AI-powered digital workers to enhance efficiency and accuracy. RobosizeME reports that automating tasks has saved over 200,000 work hours, with impressive results from major players. One hotel group saved 72 workdays per month by automating rate code maintenance, while another saved 1,000 hours in three months on ad spend optimization, leading to €8K monthly savings. Overall, automation addresses inefficiencies and improves guest satisfaction, transforming the hospitality sector.

📈 San Diego, California—Cloudbeds announced a new partnership with Klaviyo, a B2C CRM platform, to automate communications and boost direct bookings for hoteliers. The integration allows for real-time data access and one-click installation with no setup fees. This collaboration helps hotels turn guest interactions into revenue opportunities, enhancing targeting and conversion rates. Cloudbeds and Klaviyo aim to leverage guest data for personalized marketing and improved guest relationships, driving engagement, revenue, and repeat visits.