Hospitalitynet

Twenty years ago, I walked into Visual Matrix with an IT background, no hospitality experience, and no real idea what I was getting into.

A new chapter in hospitality technology begins with the launch of Elegia, a pioneering consultancy and integrator that defines itself as the independent AI orchestrator for the modern hotelier. In a world where artificial intelligence has evolved from experimental novelty to the backbone of hotel operations, Elegia emerges with a mission both pragmatic and visionary: to design and implement bespoke, high-performance technology ecosystems that deliver measurable growth, operational efficiency, and strategic foresight.

Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo has revealed the first phase of its extensive renovation, introducing 45 newly designed rooms and suites by renowned French architect and interior designer Jacques Garcia.

Luxury Family Hotels is delighted to announce the reopening of Woolley Grange, its cherished Jacobean manor house near the picturesque city of Bath. Following a full renovation of its rooms, restaurants, and gardens, the hotel once again welcomes families to experience its signature warmth and character in beautifully refreshed surroundings.

Sonesta International Hotels Corporation (Sonesta) today announced the opening of 18 hotels with new franchise partner Laxmi Hotels Group, the first major milestone in the planned sale of 113 managed properties. The successful transition of these Sonesta Select Hotels marks a significant step in Sonesta’s asset-right franchise-forward strategy.

With more than 210 signings and openings already secured this year, the Group is steadily advancing its transformation towards becoming one of the world’s most prominent hotel companies, anchored by a portfolio designed for today’s travellers and tomorrow’s priorities.

P3 Hotel Software, a leading innovator in hotel booking solutions, has set a new benchmark for rapid deployment in hospitality technology with the successful implementation of its enhanced Custom Booking Engine for Cabinn Hotels in Denmark and Sunborn Hotels in Finland. Both hotel groups faced urgent migration challenges after their previous booking engine providers announced service discontinuation — and both transitioned to P3’s advanced, OPERA Cloud–integrated solution in record time.

Unyoked, the pioneering Australian nature start-up behind the current global off-grid cabin trend, is partnering with Forestry England, the country’s largest land manager, to launch a groundbreaking new initiative that will see off-grid cabins roll out throughout Forestry England woodlands over 10 years, in an effort to help the public access nature and embed its scientifically-proven wellness benefits into their everyday lives.

Ennismore, the fastest-growing lifestyle hospitality company, is delighted to announce the signing of Mama Shelter Val Thorens, the highest ski destination in Europe. Opening in 2027, the iconic brand of joyful and irreverent hospitality will unveil its very first resort, creating a true festive retreat in the heart of the Alps. This ambitious project is led by Ennismore, Vista, Financière Galata, and Cogeco, partners united by a shared aim to reinvent the mountain experience with fresh, free-spirited, and convivial energy.

2024 was a big, unusual year for France’s hotel sector because of the Olympics. How are hotels faring now and what should independents do to stay ahead?