Miscellaneous - 10 Minutes News for Hoteliers - Page 102

8 min

The Art of Turning Curiosity into Brand Equity: Lessons from Ace Hotel to Vacation & Beyond – Ryan Bukstein

📍 Ryan worked with Ace Hotel for over 15 years until the pandemic hit, particularly highlighting the opening of Ace Hotel Kyoto during that time. Due to COVID-19, event programming, a major revenue driver, became untenable. Ryan transitioned to consulting and joined Vacation Inc., a sunscreen brand emphasizing fun. Ace Hotel's past collaborations, including with Converse, were based on relationships and curiosity. Pool Suite FM, an online radio since 2014, played a part in building Vacation's brand equity.

Virgin Atlantic becomes first UK airline to…

🚀 Virgin Atlantic will introduce free streaming-quality Wi-Fi on Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s, and A330neos by late 2026, fully installed by 2027. As the first UK airline to offer this, it capitalizes on Starlink's advanced satellite constellation for high-speed, low-latency global internet. Flying Club members enjoy free access across the fleet. The service supports multiple devices, enabling seamless connectivity for entertainment, work, and communication. Chief Experience Officer Siobhan Fitzpatrick emphasizes innovative, enhanced onboard experiences.

IndiGo Ventures makes first investment

🛩 IndiGo Ventures closed its initial fund at $52 million, targeting early-stage startups for pre-Series A, Series A, and Series B investments. Approved by the Securities and Exchange Board of India in October 2024, the fund seeks innovations in aviation, sustainability, and digital solutions. IndiGo's expertise aims to foster new product development. The venture made its first investment in Jeh Aerospace, specializing in aerospace and defense manufacturing.

2 min

Cole’s French Dip to close in Los Angeles Aug. 2

🍴 Cole's French Dip, a Los Angeles staple since 1908, will close on August 2, 2025, after 117 years. Owner Cedd Moses cites the COVID-19 pandemic, 2023 writers’ and actors’ strikes, and rising costs as reasons. Moses's Pouring With Heart also closed the Varnish in 2024. Cole’s, known for its French Dip Sandwich, faced competition from Philippe the Original. In 2008, Moses's 213 Nightlife restored Cole's for $1.6 million. Moses continues to operate other nightlife venues in downtown LA.

2 min

Chef Badara Gueye at Purple Summer’s Château de Candi

🍳 Badara Gueye, a 40-year-old chef and painter from Senegal, marks nearly five years at Château de Candie in the French Alps. Starting as a dishwasher in Dakar, his persistence led him to roles in esteemed restaurants and advanced training in France. La Cantine de Candie attracts visitors with its locally sourced, seasonally evolving menu. A standout dish, veal rump with blackcurrant and beetroot jus, highlights his culinary artistry. His evocative paintings enhance the ambiance, drawing international attention.

2 min

The evolution of digital payments and fintech in India

💸 In the mid-2010s, nearly half of India's population lacked bank accounts or official IDs, keeping cash dominant. By 2024, less than 4% of adults had credit cards, and debit cards were mainly ATM tools. Mobile wallets like Paytm and FreeCharge gained traction, offering cashless convenience and QR code payments, but operated as isolated systems. Despite digital growth, India's need for open, interoperable payment channels remains evident.

2 min

Retailaer announces implementation of…

✈️ Retailaer's integration with Air Europa began in Spain, offering travel agents enhanced shopping and servicing experiences with flights and services. This initial phase will expand globally later in 2025. The collaboration aims to set a new industry standard through modern technology and supports partners like PROS and IATA. Air Europa's Yago Casasnovas highlights the flexibility offered via multiple channels, aligning with their "You decide" campaign. Retailaer's Anders Lofgren emphasizes adaptability and partner enablement.

2 min

Emirates agrees to terms with Crypto.com

💰 Emirates and Crypto.com signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to integrate Crypto.com Pay into its payment systems, effective next year. The signing involved key figures like Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and executives from Emirates and Crypto.com. The move aligns with Dubai's vision for financial innovation and targets tech-savvy customers who prefer digital currencies. Both companies aim to enhance cryptocurrency adoption through promotional campaigns, as Dubai strengthens its role as a global cryptocurrency hub.

3 min

Oklahoma hospitality powerhouse, McNellie’s Group, plans openings and expansions in 2025 and beyond

🍺 Elliot Nelson launched McNellie’s Pub in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 2004, transforming a modest dining scene into a vibrant hub with over 100 venues. By 2025, McNellie’s Group operates 18 concepts across 25+ locations, soon expanding further in Oklahoma City with Malfi Enoteca and Bar Serra. The group's reach extends to Arkansas and eyes Dallas for future growth, driven by local demand and lower operational costs. Nelson received a James Beard Award Semifinalist nod in 2025.

2 min

Duetto and The Hotels Network Partner to Boost Direct Hotel Bookings and Optimize Marketing Spend

🎮 Chuck E. Cheese, celebrating nearly 50 years, launches "Chuck’s Arcade" for adults and lifelong fans, blending retro and modern gaming experiences. Locations are open in 10 locations across eight states, including Kansas City, Missouri, featuring unique artwork and a full menu. Expect iconic games like Ms. Pac-Man and new ones, overseen by animatronic characters. Exclusive merchandise is available, making each visit special. CEO David McKillips emphasizes the expansion as a tribute to Chuck E. Cheese's legacy.

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