Market Trends

📊 According to the U.S. Consumer Travel Report 2025, travelers are maintaining the number of trips but are spending less annually. Increased cost-consciousness is evident, with a slight rise in younger travelers who prefer OTAs for price comparison. Consumers consider road trips over air travel if flights become costly. AI-powered tools are influencing research and bookings, as general search usage declines, indicating a shift in how trips are planned and chosen.

🚿 Kinedo, part of the SFA Saniflo Group, is showcasing at HIX Expo in London’s Business Design Centre on November 26th-27th. For the first time, they reveal high-end and budget-friendly bathroom designs with unique Kinewall panels. The event attracts over 5,000 attendees, including designers and hotel operators, and features seminars on hotel wellness and luxury. Kinedo's stand A81 highlights contrasting room sets with Solo Design walk-in enclosures.

📈 March 2025: An urban hotel increased rates from $189 to $279 per night during a citywide event. Occupancy remained strong at 94%. However, operational issues, such as understaffed housekeeping and unprepared front desk, led to 14 negative reviews and a 15% decline in repeat bookings. A GM-led operational excellence program at an airport hotel increased online review scores from 3.9 to 4.5 stars and added $1.4 million in annual revenue, with a $180,000 investment paying off in six weeks.

🗺️ Globetrotters in 2026 are embracing simplicity and connection over consumption, says Lemongrass Media's report featuring 16 travel trends. Key themes include 'Decision Detox' for stress-free holidays, 'Untrending' destinations that avoid overtourism, and rail travel resurgence. Destinations like Vienna and Copenhagen focus on systemic tourism solutions. Regenerative travel evolves with impact on biodiversity and culture. Luxury travel shifts towards authenticity. Tara Schwenk and Mirjam Peternek McCartney emphasize meaningful, value-driven experiences.

🏨 Emara Ole-Sereni and Ole Sereni Hotels in Nairobi partnered with STAAH to enhance booking efficiency. They implemented STAAH's Channel Manager, Booking Engine, and Global Distribution System (GDS) for real-time updates, reducing double bookings and rate mismatches. This integration streamlines operations, boosts visibility, and supports both global and regional online travel agencies (OTAs). The partnership positions the hotels for future growth, maximizing booking and revenue opportunities while reducing OTA dependency.

📱 Josiah Mackenzie talks with Steven Moore, CEO of Actabl, about The Lodging Conference. They discuss its unique impact on hospitality leaders by fostering conversations, connections, and collaborations. Listeners learn to build stronger relationships and create beneficial environments. Access more insights with Actabl's "digital swag bag.

🏠 Dezeen Awards 2025 shortlists reveal highlights in architecture, interior, and sustainability. Notable entries include House for Julia by Čtyřstěn Architekti, Spain's Isern Serra, and Finland’s mass-timber building. Microsoft unveils its first redesigned Office logos since 2018. Dominic Bradbury's book features iconic post-war homes. SOM completes Milan's 2026 Winter Olympics Athlete's Village. Quay Quarter Tower, an upcycled skyscraper, earns an Earthshot Prize nomination. Foster + Partners to redesign Milan's San Siro stadium. Nicholas Grimshaw and Terry Farrell's passing marks an era's end.

🏢 Corporate demand is predicted to double the global serviced apartment sector size by 2033. The 2025 GSAIR forecasts the sector's worth at £183.6 billion globally by 2030. The UK market is projected to hit £6.52 billion by 2033, with a corporate growth rate of 8.8%. Investor interest rose to 27% in 2025 from 24% in 2024. Gen Z's maturation boosts digital-first serviced apartment demand, while AI and sustainability gain focus. Key discussions occurred at Citadines, London.