Market Trends

📈 Mar 24, 2026, global SME travel market: SME segment grew to 26% of the global business travel market in 2024 with a projected annual growth rate of 7.1% until 2029. In 2025, 46% of SMEs planned more travel, compared to 33% of larger firms, with 51% increasing travel investment. Navan's AI hotel catalog launched in March 2026 streamlines bookings. SME segment represents $834 billion in annual spend, with $200 billion managed. Content quality and rate visibility drive bookings on platforms like Navan and Perk.

LONDON, 23 March, 2026 – Ahead of Independent Accommodation Day on 24 March, industry data suggests independent accommodation providers are increasingly turning to practical AI tools to improve efficiency and stay competitive in a…

📍 In 2025, Italy Access Advisory (IAA) was launched by Chris Henry and Christian Scali to guide international investors in the Italian hospitality market. Italy saw record hotel investment volumes of €1.4 billion in the first half of 2025. IAA provides comprehensive advisory services, including acquisition and development. A notable project, Villa Ardore, transformed a 16th-century farmhouse in Tuscany into a luxury hotel. Chris Henry's firm, Majestic Hospitality, handles over $550 million in global projects.

🏖 In 2023, Sedona's hotel market in northern Arizona stabilized after COVID-19 disruptions and ADR normalization, maintaining occupancy in the high 60% range. Despite a 5-10% visitation decline at key attractions predicted for 2025, due to economic and political uncertainty, Sedona benefits as a gateway and standalone destination. Increased leisure and tour demand, alongside reduced supply following Outbound Sedona’s closure, contribute to modest growth. Performance indicators in early 2026 show continued strengthening.

Leisure and advisor consortia offer independent hotels access to affluent travelers through networks like Virtuoso and Serandipians. As of 2026, Virtuoso's 20,000 advisors generate $35 billion annually, covering 1,800 properties with a $550 average amenity value per stay. Signature Travel Network oversees $11 billion in sales across 1,300 properties. Ensemble and TRAVELSAVERS provide broader advisor reach. Advisor relationships, not rate codes, are pivotal, underscoring the importance of active hotel-advisor engagement. 🌍

🏢 In early 2026, Mouthwash Studio expanded into New York's Lower Manhattan with a 237-square-foot office designed by Charlap Hyman & Herrero. Featuring antique Persian rugs and modern furniture, the office blends antiquity and industrial design. Stainless-steel desks and shelves provide contrast, while decor includes a 17th-century Venetian painting, Victorian mirror, and Josef Hoffman's chair. Founded in 2019, Mouthwash Studio has offices in Los Angeles and collaborated on LA’s Mexican restaurant.

🏨 In May 2025, HD Expo + Conference’s Hosted Buyer Program will return to Las Vegas, assembling around 200 influential professionals. María Adelaida Herrera and Miguel León Borda from Studio Crearq praise the shift towards adaptive, immersive environments. Jessica Black from Firmdale Hotels emphasizes sustainability's pivotal role. Ricardo Moreno from Clear on Black values meaningful vendor engagement. The event showcases trends in sustainable materials, integrated technology, and U.S. manufacturing, shaping hospitality's future.

🌎 Long-haul travelers are rerouting from Gulf hubs to Asia and Europe due to Middle East uncertainty. ⏱️ Rising jet fuel costs, now at $175 per barrel, have increased fares, with airlines offering flexibility. ✈️ The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has led to longer routes and some service cancellations. Despite strong demand, travelers are shifting to shorter trips. Intra-European travel is robust, with Spain, Portugal, and Italy seeing high bookings, while Turkey and Greece face slower demand.