Innovation

📖 In early 2024, ChatGPT ditched old plugins for new connected apps via the Model Context Protocol, launched in late 2025. A family tested seven travel apps, aiming for a July NYC trip. Apps like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Priceline offered live hotel data, while itineraries relied on ChatGPT's training. Hotels like Hyatt and ALL Accor revealed price ranges, with Accor's options between $4,400 and $12,400. Despite live data, ChatGPT's training influenced recommendations, highlighting a lack of connected loyalty accounts.

🏨 ChatGPT, during multiple tests, consistently recommended the same hotel as its top choice, despite variations in connected apps and live data inputs. This hotel is ranked 15th on TripAdvisor and doesn't appear on Booking.com's first page. The tests involved major ChatGPT travel apps like TripAdvisor and Booking, plus a control. Further surprises and discrepancies, such as differing app opinions on the same hotel, are detailed in the full blog breakdown.

🚀 RBC and HTS collaborate to enhance the Avion Rewards program for Canadian travelers. This long-term partnership introduces a world-class travel booking platform, allowing seamless point usage across travel categories. New features include flexible booking options, price insights, and exclusive fixed-points pricing on flights without restrictions. Avion Rewards’ integration with HTS technology underscores a commitment to innovative, personalized travel experiences, reinforcing its position as Canada's leading loyalty program.

📈 European investment volumes increased by 170% in Central-Eastern Europe in 2025, with cities like Prague, Budapest, and Warsaw leading RevPAR growth, shifting focus from Western Europe. Research found 70% of hotel guests prefer human check-ins over AI, despite automation efficiencies. Meanwhile, AI agents provide competitive advantages for smaller hotels by allowing prompt deployment without enterprise constraints. L Catterton launched a luxury platform aiming for 10-15 landmark properties, reflecting the evolving dynamics in hospitality investments and guest preferences.

💻 In just a few months, Opally, founded by 23-year-old Gustav Søgård, expanded from 12 to over 50 hotels across five European countries: Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Austria, and Greece. The platform evolved from a simple email management tool to a comprehensive AI platform for guest communications. Recent achievements include closing the first investment round and developing advanced AI-driven tools. Gustav's family plays a key role, with his brother managing growth and his mother advising from the hospitality sector.

🏨 Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt are shaking up outdoor accommodations toward 2026. Marriott acquired 1,200+ Postcard Cabins, Hilton partnered with AutoCamp for luxury glamping, and Hyatt integrated Under Canvas for safari-style tents. Ben Wolff leads Bia to transform landscape hotels by utilizing cost-effective land leases. Onera, co-founded by Wolff and sold to Summit Properties in the first REIT glamping exit, exemplifies innovation in Texas Hill Country with ADRs of $450–$500.

📅 Celebrating 10 years with CEO Jane Pendlebury, HOSPA has excelled since 2016. In 2020, it adapted to pandemic challenges by going digital. The association's learner success rate is 95%, with courses like Revenue Management for Meeting Space. Pendlebury led the 20th HOSPACE event to record attendance, focusing on finance, technology, and bridging software with service values. The association's growth underscores a shift to a value-driven approach in hospitality.

🏨 Jennifer Rice-Palmer, with 35 years at Rosen Hotels & Resorts, began her hospitality career at age 14 in New Hampshire. Mentors like Eddie Palmer and Jonni Kimberly influenced her growth. In 2025, the hospitality industry showed strong female leadership, with increasing opportunities in sales and management roles. Diversity and inclusion remain priorities, especially as Orlando's tourism evolves. The hospitality sector is recovering well post-COVID, emphasizing human interaction over AI in creating a welcoming atmosphere.

🏨 PM Hotel Group, celebrating its 35th anniversary, is now the 15th-largest independent hotel management company in the U.S., with 80-90 hotels. Over 90% of its operations are third-party, focusing on smart, strategic growth. AI aids in market research and optimizing bookings. The company excels in staff retention, using its support center to maintain a positive culture. Modus by PM taps into luxury and adventure travel, with expansions like Evo hotels and glamping in San Luis Obispo.

💸 Creators connect audiences to products through posts and Reels, earning via new affiliate partners like Amazon, eBay, and Shopee. AI enhances shopping with detailed product info and one-click checkout. Meta apps engage 3.5 billion daily users, with ad impressions up 18% in Q4 2025. Over 50% of shoppers are influenced by online creators. New creator tools drive product discovery and sales. At ShopTalk 2026, Meta introduces enhanced AI shopping experiences and retail media network collaborations.