Market Trends

🌍 Jan 20, 2026, HVS reports global hotel RevPAR growth moderating after 2025, with strategic shifts toward repositioning and leadership. U.S. transactions focus on value-add assets, with 2026 deal flow set to rise. Canada maintains nearly 5% RevPAR growth via domestic travel and events, while Latin America's opportunities vary by market. Europe's investment activity persists, despite slower growth. Alternative revenue streams, such as EV charging and commercial uses, gain traction as leadership and talent strategies drive long-term value.

📅 In 2023, Accor expects the premium hotel segment to grow by 40% by 2033. The company plans to add 57,000 rooms next year, enhancing its presence in over 90 countries. Accor's premium brand signings have surged by 150% since 2019. Key markets include Asia Pacific and the Middle East, with 60% of growth, driven by a growing middle class. Movenpick's sustainability commitment is evident, with over 80% of its portfolio certified, contributing over 100,000 kilos in donations across 30 countries.

💸 At the start of 2026, UK and European hotel debt markets are stable with refinancing dominating. UK GDP growth is 0.1% quarterly, and inflation drops to 3.2% as of November 2025. Bank of England's base rate is 3.75%, while Eurozone inflation is 2%. European RevPAR growth averages 3%. UK banks offer loans with 55-65% LTV; private credit is key for complex refinancings. Notable deals include a £290M loan for London's Sea Containers and a large financing near Lisbon.

🗺️ Fauchon L’Hôtel Paris conducted a survey during the summer 2025 peak season involving U.S.-based luxury travel advisors. Results showed 100% favored hotels offering an "authentic sense of place." Location (97.5%) and service (82.5%) were key booking factors. Spa services and fitness centers topped "must-have" lists. While 7 in 10 clients valued a "complimentary night," just 30% requested hotels seen on social media. Despite economic uncertainty, 90% of clients continue frequent travel since the pandemic.

🏨 HOTELS Magazine's January/February 2026 issue is now available digitally. The 2025 hotel industry faced challenges akin to a Mike Tyson uppercut. In 2026, the focus is on understanding past hurdles and future prospects. Key topics include the rise of soft brands, Japan's diverse hospitality scene, Omni Hotels' comprehensive strategy in branding, managing, and owning, and the revival of Frank Sinatra's former Cal Neva Hotel, now under Proper Hospitality. Explore the full content online.

📈 Shangri-La Group is enhancing customer engagement with its Shangri-La Circle loyalty program. By 2024-2025, they plan to expand in Asia and the Middle East, including openings like JEN Kunming and Shangri-La Nanshan Shenzhen. In 2022, Shangri-La Jeddah opened on the Red Sea. Their ESG initiatives reduce plastics and carbon emissions, with local actions in Paris. By 2024-2025, they expect revenue growth and financial discipline, focusing on management and mixed-use projects.

🏨 Jan 16, 2026, luxury travel prioritizes guest emotions over exclusivity. Hotels must transition from prestige to meaningful experiences. The integration of technology in hospitality should enhance, not overshadow, the guest experience. Key strategies include emotional resonance, personalization, and empathy-driven service. Successful hotels will blend digital convenience with human-centric service to foster loyalty. The emphasis on "time well spent" highlights a new luxury paradigm, enhancing brand loyalty beyond the stay.

🌎 Trip.com surpasses Expedia in reach with 172 million compared to Airbnb's 20 million. Market caps: Airbnb at $84B, Trip.com at $50B. Japan, India, and Latin America have large domestic OTAs. 10 Minutes News offers a global OTA dataset, excluding China, for subscribers. For better hotel distribution strategy, focus on platforms with strong reviews in existing markets, as shown by UK guest feedback compared to Japan's. Feedback on data improvements is encouraged.