Innovation

💻 In 2026, Mews surveyed over 500 hotels globally, revealing that 98% of hoteliers have used AI in the past six months. AI was involved in 11 out of 19 key tasks, handling over 50% of the workload. Despite AI's widespread adoption, 59% believe front desk interactions should remain human-led. 92% are optimistic about AI, yet 41% lack formal AI policies. Revenue growth is a priority for 52%, with AI tools needing property-specific insights to maximize value.

🗺 Forty-five percent of Americans plan vacations in paid lodging in 2026, the lowest in six years. Travelers will spend $4,049 on their longest summer trip, up 17% from 2025. Hotel stays remain steady at 81%, while private rentals rise to 29%. Domestic flights planned by 61% of travelers. Millennials dominate travel, accounting for 31% of travelers, with 36% using AI for planning. One-third, or 34%, of travelers plan to work during trips. Survey by Deloitte conducted in April 2026.

📋 In late October to mid-December, Shiji executed a complex PMS rollout for over 100 hotels, averaging seven hotels per day. Challenges included data migration and integration certification, tackled by cross-functional task forces. Peak days saw nine hotels onboarded. Effective governance, structured execution, and on-site task forces ensured alignment and quick resolution of issues. Consistent communication and customer understanding were pivotal to maintaining momentum and control throughout the tightly managed schedule.

💰 Airbnb launched a credit system this week, positioning it as a replacement for hotel loyalty points. Their price match guarantee offers Airbnb credits if a lower price is found elsewhere, and users earn up to 15% credit on bookings, capped at $2,000. These credits expire after a year. This move aims to attract consumers with immediate discounts and provide hotels with lower listing fees. Notably, Airbnb ranks 45th in Interbrand's top 100 for brand value, ahead of any hotel chain.

📶 Virgin Atlantic partners with Kolet to enhance travel connectivity through an embedded eSIM service. Customers receive 1GB of free data for 48 hours via the airline's digital platforms. Kolet, founded in 2024, aims to boost eSIM use across their 190+ destinations, having attracted over 500,000 users in under two years. The initiative aligns with Virgin Atlantic's digital investments and upcoming Starlink Wi-Fi rollout, catering to rising demand for seamless in-flight connectivity.

🛫 Dynamic packaging in travel is where AI can shine, simplifying complex itineraries like flights, hotels, car rentals, and activities. AI can compile trips quickly, enhancing both agent efficiency and customer trust. Despite tech advances, startups face challenges with crowded markets and valuation expectations. Though exits in travel tech are limited, innovation continues, with investors seeking profitable ventures with AI resilience. The market remains competitive, with startups needing a strong go-to-market strategy and proof of product quality.

🛫 Expanding its B2B partner strategy, Expedia Group introduces an AI toolkit to simplify branded travel experiences. 🗓️ In the coming months, pilot partners will test the new platform. 🌍 With 24/7 support in 25 languages, the focus is on service continuity. 🔗 Recent acquisitions include Tiqets and a pending deal with CarTrawler, extending their offerings. 🚗 The B2B Partner Portal now enhances marketing strategies, while an AI-powered advertising portal broadens the Travel Media Network’s reach.