TOP NEWS

🏨 Hotel owners in Washington, D.C. face significant challenges. In 2026, 71% report cost of goods as a major issue, with labor costs (65%), and energy expenses (50%) not far behind. Workforce shortages affect over 50% of hotels. Despite pressures, 39% expect steady travel demand, while 29% anticipate growth. Hotels are boosting wages (70%) and offering flexible schedules (54%) to attract staff. Some hotels report that bookings for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are below expectations.

🏨 In 2025, Red Roof saw significant growth with a 2% market share increase for The Red Collection and 1.1% for Red Roof Inn. A new app boosted revenue by over 65%. The brand plans to add 3,500 rooms, with new hotel executions up 35% from 2024. Over 700 properties now feature In Stay SMS texting, and FreedomPay enhances payment systems. The Purpose With Heart program achieved a 210% increase in e-learning participation for cultural competency.

📱 Enseo, a leader in digital guest experience technology for hotels, unveiled a strategic focus and new brand identity to modernize hospitality. For over 26 years, Enseo has offered in-room entertainment and connectivity solutions. The company emphasizes enhancing guest experiences, improving property performance, and unlocking revenue opportunities through a unified platform. CEO Brian Gurley and President David Goldstone highlighted the commitment to innovation, personalization at scale, and operational clarity to boost loyalty, reduce costs, and drive growth.

🏨 Ringwood Hall Hotel and Spa, a 19th-century, Grade II listed manor with 72 bedrooms, joins BWH Hotels' BW Signature Collection. Located near Peak District, it's set in six acres of gardens and 29 acres of parkland. Plans include spa investments and glamping accommodations. By joining, it gains BWH Hotels' global network and support while retaining its unique identity. James Winfield, the general manager, and Robert Alley, BWH Hotels GB's brand development director, emphasize the benefits and heritage.

🌎 Rising fuel prices and cost-of-living pressures are reshaping global tourism over the next 12 months. Travel will shift towards shorter, regional trips and value-driven experiences. Destinations perceived as safe and accessible will gain a competitive edge. By 2026-2027, travelers will prioritize wellness, nature, and cultural experiences. AI and advanced analytics will become crucial for destinations to predict demand and personalize travel experiences, shifting focus from traditional marketing to dynamic, data-driven strategies for market share.

🏖️ Friendly Hotels Group, with partners, acquired Le Grand Aigle Hôtel & Spa (60 rooms) in La Salle-les-Alpes and Hôtel Totem (96 rooms) in Arâches-la-Frasse, France, both reopening for the 2026/2027 winter season. Atom Hoteles sold AC Hotel Ciutat de Palma in Spain for €19.35 million. Room00 acquired Mecenate Palace Hotel in Rome for €12 million. Zetland Capital sold Staverton Park Hotel in the UK. Gaiarooms expanded with Hotel Ipanema Vigo in Spain.

💻 Mar 17, 2026 - Mirai launches a conversational booking engine, revolutionizing hotel direct channels with natural language interaction. This new paradigm simplifies the booking process, boosting guest engagement and conversion rates. Hotels gain control over the customer journey, reducing reliance on intermediaries and enhancing understanding of guest intent. This aligns with the AI-driven travel trend, urging hoteliers to rethink direct channels as dynamic, AI-powered interfaces.

🛫 Marriott and United Airlines highlight that advertisers miss opportunities by not targeting travelers, who tend to spend more on vacation. United's ad platform, Kinective Media, connects with travelers via its app, lounges, and in-flight screens, noting that 25% of its travelers earn over $250,000 annually. Their efforts gain traction with tourism boards and B2B advertisers, evidenced by a Cayman Islands campaign that led to over 9,000 United bookings.

🌿 Hartley Botanic, founded by Vincent and Norman Hartley, has been crafting glasshouses and greenhouses in England for 85 years. In 2021, they received the Queen's Award for Enterprise. Their aluminum structures, endorsed by the Royal Horticultural Society, come with a 30-year lifetime guarantee. With installations worldwide, including Massachusetts, USA, and Jersey, UK, Hartley Botanic continues to deliver customizable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing designs. Order now for Summer 2026 delivery. Call 01457 819155 for more info.