Hotel Analyst Podcast: Recent Episodes
Hotel Analyst
Weekly views on the key news stories from the Hotel Analyst team, covering the global hotel investment market. To read more detail, subscribe at www.hotelanalyst.co.uk
Thoughts from this year’s IHIF in Berlin, where the transaction market looks on, becalmed, as the brands and operators enjoy better times. Wyndham and Hilton buy new brands, broadening their offer - but who do the brands really serve? And while SPACs have not been a source of great riches for many hospitality businesses, market listings remain in favour, as far as Hotel101 and Motel One are concerned.
As B&B Hotels and CitizenM potentially come to market, who will be in the mood to spend billions buying these brands, and grow them to the next level? Travelodge now looks to be changing its business model, with owners of the operating business backing a linked property company and buying a portfolio of Travelodge hotels. And Africa is seeing the hotel brands renew their march after the pandemic - as they discover some familiar challenges.
As delegates at MIPIM get over the most recent shocks to hit property markets, there comes a growing realisation that active asset management is increasingly essential, to add value in operational real estate. Student accommodation providers are looking to adjacent spaces to learn operational lessons, and seek growth opportunities. And China's big property conglomerates are under pressure financially - what will the impact be on Western hotel partners?
Deals off, deals on - as Choice abandons its plan to take over Wyndham, Barry Sternlicht reveals plans to launch a SPAC which will own a mix of US and European hotels, previously held by Starwood Capital. Saudi Arabia has hit a key milestone in expanding its tourism sector - and is making impressive progress. And in Europe, airlines and package groups are offering greater flexibility to keep up with continuing strong leisure demand.
The extended stay niche was fastest to recover after the pandemic - and now they’re first to see performance level off, and face the economic headwinds out there. Worries continue over refinancing and the wall of debt the hotel sector faces - will it lead to distress and deals? And Greece has undergone an economic transformation, now its tourism market and hotels too are undergoing major change too, as international investors and brands arrive.
More new hotel brands are coming - are they any good for consumers, and will there be a fallout? Tourist taxes are being ramped up, as destinations use them to generate an income, in the name of moderating peak demand from visitors. And as Spain looks forward to a strong 2024, Asian markets are now enjoying strong tailwinds.
Accor, IHG and Hyatt are all looking to make more strategic moves, as they eye the last benefits of post-pandemic tailwinds. Choice hotels saw market conditions weaken in the US the fourth quarter - putting its share price under pressure, as it relies on that share price to buttress its hostile bid for Wyndham. And hospitality groups have taken a new direction in seeking public listings. Gone are US SPACs, with companies in Germany, Singapore and India tapping regional investor interest.
Marriott still sees tailwinds from growing group and business bookings; Wyndham worries about the impact on its business of the Choice bid, to date reckoned at a USD75m negative impact. Meanwhile in Europe, owner Pandox and operator Scandic are looking forward to a positive year of more growth across the continent. And as pub groups shift into boutique hotels, how should hotel brands react to this quiet, but growing competitive threat?
Soho House comes under attack from a short seller - but is the business fundamentally as worthless as they claim? Hilton signals a strategy switch, arguing now is the moment to consider acquisitions in a stressed market. And the alternatives in hostels bounce back, just as new format Outsite looks to grab unloved hotels.
India’s local hotel groups are enjoying a strong economy, with growing demand, in a marketplace where there’s little prospect of much more supply in the near term. Consumer travel behaviour is changing, and more are booking directly, and more in advance. But the latest resarch also has a warning for the OTAs of new competition from the East. And third party hotel managers are looking forward to growing deal flow, bringing with it the expectation of more new properties to look after.
The world is resetting around new demand drivers, new destinations and new flying routes after the pandemic - and there are winners as well as some losers. Consumers are tilting back towards hotels and away from short term rentals, just as the regulatory noose around them appears to be tightening. And hanging out with Best Western - a cheaper, more flexible branding alternative to the big brand groups.
It’s a positive start to the new year, as consultants expect deal volume to improve - unlocking the restricted investment market. Major travel groups, including TUI, are looking to gain greater control over the hotels they sell as part of their packages. And thinking green, we’re seeing sustainability now becoming a greater part of the funding landscape, giving borrowers discounts if they hit agreed environmental targets.
A big GBP800m purchase in London by Starwood Capital has brightened the investment community - could it be the moment private equity is back in the market? Plus, a portfolio of 66 Travelodge hotels trades, with the buyer being the US owner of the Travelodge operating business. And we delve into what French group Louvre is doing - a slumbering giant in the ownership of major Chinese group Jin Jiang.
Ahead of his upcoming Hoftel conferences, CEO Simon Allison provides his thoughts on deal flow into 2024, as banks start pulling the trigger. Other big issues, debated at his events, include the shifting focus of Spanish brands and owners, aligning with bigger brands and new distribution channels; and the ambitions of Middle Eastern players are a growing influence, liable to impact other regional leisure players as new destinations gain momentum.
Hospitality looks forward to 2024 with reducing inflation, interest rates looking as though they may have peaked - will it be a happy new year? Is Indian disruptor Oyo finding its mojo once more? And Philippine brand Hotel 101 is planning global expansion, backed by fractional ownership. And greater regulation is heading for the short term rental niche - but is it overall a good thing?
Budget hotel operators are trading strongly, but where is the value-add opportunity for investors in their property assets? Consolidation plays see those in the living space broaden their appeal to both customers, and to potential investors. And, despite tough economic conditions, the mood from recent hotel conferences was a fundamentally optimistic one.
Subscription models are a challenge for hotels, but get them right and they can be a valuable income stream that also drives loyalty too. Deloitte finds confidence in the sector improving, and its conference also looked at the likely impact of upcoming technological change. And as the sector continues to face staffing challenges, we discuss an initiative Whitbread is pushing forward.
Deal volume is starting to build, but it feels more like glacial melt, rather than all-out spring thaw. A major refinancing in the hostel space shines a positive light on that niche in the accommodation space, but it still remains at arms length to the mainstream. And Choice delivers its third quarter results - but the CEO uses the event to shout about why his offer to take over Wyndham is such a great idea.
Marriott sees returning business and group demand as an enduring tailwind, as it expands into midscale. The US Reits, Host and Park, as well as Hyatt are also enjoying a return of big corporate events. Third quarter results from the OTAs show they’re all pushing hard into more alternative accommodation, with Booking and Expedia turning up the heat under Airbnb. And then there’s the hype of AI….
Growing fast - Hilton and Wyndham were keen to shout about their growth figures in recent results. Wyndham spent time contrasting its numbers with those of suitor Choice…Business on the books in Europe is strong, say Pandox, Scandic and STR. And China is back, as noted by IHG and Accor in Q3 numbers - with more to come, as airlift is still rebuilding capacity.
Our thoughts on the big consolidation deal - will Choice swallow Wyndham? AccorInvest looks to slim down, and trim debt, as it seeks to slip away from Accor. And Whitbread looks to find the love for Premier Inn in Germany.
While recent studies paint a rosy picture for the hotel sector, we wonder what the latest issues in and around Israel will deliver to those operating in the region. In the UK and Europe, deals look to be happening again, as issues around inflation and debt are put into perspective. And third party operators spread their wings, as owners learn they can earn more from their assets.
Thoughts from Marriott on how it intends to grow over the next three years, as it launches an underwhelmingly named new brand. More from the Operational Real Estate festival, on how traditional real estate asset classes are losing their appeal. Why all-inclusive continues to be an attractive market sector. And thoughts on the impact of the latest conflict in Israel.
Reflections from the Operational Real Estate Festival. Accommodation alternatives Selina, Soho House and Sonder wrestle with the challenges of growth, and delivering profits - investors like the first, but will ultimately demand the second. And luxury hotels look to be ever in demand, not just from well-heeled guests, but with investors too.
The deals market has been becalmed by higher interest rates, will it now ease? The challenge of demonstrating the economic positives of travel. PPHE and Dalata look confidently ahead; PPHE has a strong brand deal, would Dalata benefit from something similar? And we chew over the frustrations of drip pricing.
Across the piece, all sorts of buildings with beds - from private rental to student accommodation, as well as hospitality - are impacted by either too much, or too little, regualation. In China, indebted developers are casting a shadow over hotel development for the international brands. And hotels return to normalcy, albeit with some tailwinds still to come from the business travel market.
Conversions are the key for hotel brand groups, as new development volume reduces - and IHG is on the front foot with new conversion brand Garner. Marriott has put its money on MGM and its major US resorts in Las Vegas and elsewhere - will Convoy members be able to gamble their points in future? And as online travel agents register record performance figures, the clouds gather over Airbnb.
Ahead of the Annual Hotel Conference in Manchester, we welcome Joe Stather of Questex to discuss findings of Questex's latest quarterly investor sentiment survey; moderating demand, a withering tailwind as business demand starts to level off, and investors still staring at the bid-ask spread and wondering at what price they can get back into the market. The Annual Hotel Conference takes place in Manchester 11-12 September.
Big guns Accor and Hilton delivered strong Q2 figures, but the market prefers Hilton shares to those from Accor right now. India looks a stronger medium term opportunity than China, and its ITC brand is now emerging from its conglomerate parent. And in China, H World’s results reveal a strong snap back in occupancy, as Wyndham, too, likes the look of further growth in the country.
Deal volumes more than halved in the first half of 2023, as investors got their heads around rising debt costs - and owners resisted selling as they carried on trading positively. But things may pick up in the second half. Data from Booking.com and Amadeus point to a continuing strong 2023 for trading, well ahead of previous expectations. And we walk through the first half year results, from Scandinavian groups Pandox and Scandic.
Accor continues to reinvent itself as a lifestyle and luxury player. But why is it not shouting louder about its successful and dominant economy brands? Debt is getting more expensive, with refinancing tougher to negotiate - what will be the impact on the hotel sector? And experiences, hospitality and leisure increase their presence in former retail spaces, helping to reinvent town and city centres.
Is the glass half empty, or half full? A quick debate over the latest views of the UK hotel market, as investors adjust to the new normal - and wonder about upping their activity once more. Alternatives are thriving, notably hostels - so why are these businesses still largely the preserve of private equity? And as the Chinese get out and about once more, how will this massive tourism market spread around the world, after the pandemic?
Tougher lending conditions are forcing mid market hotel groups to dispose of individual properties, to buttress balance sheets ahead of refinancing discussions. With Travelodge and Village Hotels now quietly being offered for sale, who has deep pockets and a strong constitution? And new arrivals in the OTA space promise hard-up consumers a better deal, often on a subscription-only basis.
As we’re told investors are lining up to put funds into co-living developments, how big could this niche be? Or is it simply a stop-gap solution to a broader housing market failure? Airlines have struggled to get back in the air, but now they’re making money - and, like hotels, wondering how to deliver real value to the consumer. And as more companies commit to going green, the space remains a complex one with few absolute metrics, fast changing technology - and a fair dose of greenwash, too.
Rumours swirl around a possible merger of Choice and Wyndham. Hotels wrestle with how to do wellness properly, and profitably. And consumers want more personalisation - how can hotels tackle the challenge successfully?
Picking apart views from the Berlin conference - optimistic overall, but aware of debt challenges ahead. Federico Gonzalez takes a second job, heading Louvre as well as Radisson - what’s he likely to do with Jin Jiang’s big Western investments? And economy secctor operators Travelodge and Motel One shine a light on the resilience of the low cost operators.
Everyone in investment is adapting to the new normal of inflation, and debt that’s more expensive, and harder to find. India, as it becomes the world’s most populous country, looks an increasingly interesting market for both domestic hotel groups and international brands. And market newcomers Soho House, Sonder and Selina display contrasting roadmaps to profitability.
The Ascott shows everyone how serviced apartments are done - as the big US groups line up to launch new apartment brands. Hyatt's acquisition pace shows no signs of slowing up, as it buys an umbrella brand. And as Keith Barr departs IHG, will it finally move its presence, and its listing, to the US?
It's been a strong results season for the listed hotel groups, so what are they going to do to move the needle from here on? We muse on Whitbread and its expansion into Germany; Marriott and Hilton, both deciding to launch new, economy extended stay brands as they move downmarket; and chew over stellar results from Wyndham and Accor, both enjoying an uplift from a strong snapback in Asia.
Investors pile into luxury and lifestyle hotels - and we look to LVMH for further brand inspiration, while speculating on Accor’s future, too. Integrated resorts - complete with a casino - look to be moving forward both in Europe, and in Japan too, but pushing them to delivery is hard work. And Spain is enjoying an influx as the international brands take over hotels that were previously independently owned. The move is accelerating…
Who's winning the distribution game, as international travel opens up once more. Simple answer, Google - but what else is going on? Pubs with rooms get their act together, they're more boutique than budget accommodation these days. And the UK government makes clear the direction they want to head as they clarify regulation of short lets.
It’s getting harder, and more expensive, to borrow funds for hotel investment - and that’s no bad thing, we argue. Germany has seen its hotel market come back, good news for operators including Motel One and Deutsche Hospitality; but will DH remain in the ownership of Chinese group H World, or is the moment approaching for a sale? And can hotels be part of the revival of the UK’s ailing high streets? Travelodge is making a strong pitch to help out.
Real estate investment values have been dropping, notably across retail and offices, as hotels are holding strong. Is the glass half empty, or half full? The sustainability debate - and where the hotel sector may face significant threats in the future. And Asian hotel groups finally get to see an uptick in business, as China eases open once more. The rest of the world will benefit, too, as the Chinese snap back into global travel.
Accor launches a fresh push into the expanding branded residences market; Soho House picks up its old name as it looks to pick up profitability too; and student accommodation providers continue to enjoy a demographic boost
Flexible office providers look to hotel-style franchising to accelerate their growth. But more importantly, will hybrid working provide opportunities for hotels? Marriott makes changes at the top - and those changes make it clear that it’s all about growth and brands. And Reits discover that big is beautiful, as well as providing a buffer of safety in uncertain times as debt markets tighten.
How Saudi Arabia is planning to outdo Dubai, with its megaprojects that will turn the kingdom into a post-oil tourism destination. Why vertical integration is working so well for Anglo-Irish group Dalata, and trans-European group PPHE. Plus how airlines, airports and air traffic control are letting the side down, when it comes to reinstating international long haul travel. The hotel rooms are waiting!
Reasons to be cheerful, as those in the UK hotel market look beyond recent, and current market challenges. IHG and Accor, both with a heavy stake in the Chinese hotel market, look forward to the upside of Asia’s reopening. And online bookings soar - good for leader Booking.com - but they continue to pay an awful lot to advertise their inventory.
A conversation with Joe Stather, VP market leader for operational real estate at Questex, ahead of the International Hospitality Investment Forum taking place 15-17 May in Berlin. The event’s theme is “Fortune favours the bold” - so where should investors look for the best opportunities in the market, after the pandemic?
Big beasts Hyatt and Marriott lead the pace of hotel group recovery. Airbnb’s stock rose after a solid 2022 with growing profits, but where’s the next opportunity for the platform? And we wonder what franchise specialists Choice and Wyndham will buy next, as they generate cash.
A chat with Simon Allison of HOFTEL, ahead of the Gulf & Indian Ocean Hotel Investors' Summit 2023. Why has Dubai performed so strongly, where are new hotels in the region popping up?
What's likely to happen over the next few months, as investors with cash wonder how best to deploy it, or whether to sit on it, and those with borrowings wonder how to approach refinancing. Against a gloomy outlook, hotel businesses continue to deliver cash - and it can't be long before private equity is active in the sector once more. And third party managers rev up to sign up more branded hotels, as owners wake up to the value within their assets - and the brand groups prefer franchises.
New brands - Spark from Hilton and Handwritten Collection from Accor - but who are they actually for? We mull over the leading hostel brands, and wonder who will buy into this successful niche over the coming year. And thoughts from a recent HOFTEL hotel owners conference in Madrid, dogged by economic uncertainty.
2022 saw hotel deal volumes drop almost a third in the UK - what’s the outlook for 2023? As several UK hotels are hired by the National Health Service to speed up hospital patient discharges, what about the opportunity more broadly of health tourism? And thoughts from Christie’s review of the market, how pricing might shift when and distressed opportunities may appear.
China opens up for travel once more - are we back to post-pandemic normality, finally? The UK’s student housing market looks to be maturing, and it’s a hotel investor who’s jumping in. And alternative accommodation providers embrace regulation, as they argue they’re not creating a housing shortage.
Hotel owners and investors are starting to focus more on the green credentials of their properties, and their targets - and there’s more pushback, too on regulation. More tax and regulation for the UK hospitality sector - but it’s not all bad. And we’re seeing major landlords shifting their approach to tenants, as French giant Covivio takes learnings from its substantial hotel portfolio, and create a fresh approach to its flexible workspace offering.
The curious conundrum of new investors coming into the market, as established players halt further investment. Chains of pubs with rooms are growing, backed by private equity - but are they really a challenge to hotels? And what's actually changed, long term, after the pandemic?
Memberships and subscriptions look like a great revenue stream, but how do you ensure they're profitable? As Hoxton extends its brand into ski chalets, and Ritz-Carlton's cruise yacht launches, what is a brand? And Hyatt adds another lifestyle brand group.
Ahead of Hoftel's Atlantic Ocean Hotel Investors' Summit in January, Simon Allison of Hoftel discusses hot topics for discussion, including the impact of inflation, who is really picking up on ESG issues, and how brand mergers are impacting owners and operators. https://aohis.co
Investors are wrestling with a rapidly changing cost and interest rate environment, but deals are still getting done. In Spain, IHG’s deal with Iberostar is a smart way to get into a tightly held marketplace. We debate the industry’s ongoing challenge in attracting staff, and some thoughts from world cup returnee Andrew, on Qatar. recorded 30 Nov 2022
Back to normal for the major hotel groups and the OTAs, as strong Q3 results show most are now trading ahead of pre-pandemic levels. What to do with all that cash. But why are some share prices languishing? And an update after two London investment conferences where confidence in the future was high. Recorded 19 Nov 2022
Serviced apartment operators are going from strength to strength - and new entrants are finding space to launch, too. Whitbread has set a new UK growth target, as it takes advantage of "mom & pop" operators dropping from the accommodation market. Plus the big guns like the look of the resort market, as leisure and business trips blend out of the pandemic.
Hospitality tackles green issues - but is still struggling at large with measuring its progress. Hyatt's new deal with Lindner, following Wyndham's Vienna House deal, really changes the German brand landscape. And investors are increasingly blending accommodation types, with student specialist Unite getting into BTR. recorded 3 Nov 2022
Consumers remain keen to travel and stay away, at the same time as confidence being reported at all-time lows. And although financing costs are rising, deals are getting done, and investors are eyeing further substantial commitments into the European hotel sector. And third party operators regroup and prepare to grow as European hotel owners, and the brand groups, look for better performance. Recorded 14 October 2022
Meetings and events are back, as we consign Zoom to occasional use. Regional authorities look to slap tourist taxes on arrivals - rarely a great idea. And more Asian countries reopen for international travel - great news for hotels there. But China still remains closed….and the air travel industry is struggling.
In conversation with Joe Stather of Questex, talking operational real estate and how other sectors are learning from hotels. Reflecting on Hotel Analyst's OpRE event, as well as looking forward to the upcoming Annual Hotel Conference.
How can hoteliers best react to a world of rising input costs? A conversation with Andrew Parsons of Pelican Procurement Services talking ideas of how to contain costs for everything from milk and butter, to vegetables and energy. In such volatile times, what can a specialist bring to the table?
Hotels have stood shoulder to shoulder, pushing room rates to help recover performance - but will they be able to do so as the economy tightens? A European Commission report shines a light on how the hotel-OTA relationship has developed. Plus, as the sector continues to face staffing challenges, the enterprising work out how to look after their people better. Recorded 19 Sept 2022
The big hotel groups get back to signing more brands, growing their portfolios with growing flags including Emblems and Delta. Online travel platforms angle jostle for the best of the market - long stay, short stay, or both? And as Huazhu renames itself once more and reveals a move upmarket in China, where’s the sense in keeping its European arm, Deutsche Hospitality?
What’s happening with the return to the office after the pandemic? And how will this affect corporate hotel demand? Deal volume is building across Europe’s hotel markets once more - but wobbles remain around debt costs. And how ground rents are faring, in uncharted economic times.Recorded 5 Sept 2022
Serviced offices learn from hotels as they expand by franchising - but WeWork has still yet to turn a profit. In serviced apartments, Sonder has also realised the need for profit. And in Asia, Indian Hotels has just delivered its best quarter ever, as Puneet Chhatwal delivers. Recorded 30 Aug 2022
Luxury and leisure are the winners for Hyatt and IHG; it’s another staycation summer for many; and as Azora buys its first Greek hotel, the country offers opportunities for the big hotel brands
The big beasts, Marriott and Hilton, see business back largely to normal - but will they fall foul of economic slowdown? Institutions are looking at getting more involved in the UK housing market - as are hotel brands, too. And we weigh up who's going to do best out of the franchise businesses Choice and Wyndham. One's just acquired Radisson Americas, the other is looking to buy. Recorded 10 August, 2022
Results season - and most hotel companies are surprised by the strength and speed of the recovery. Accor surprises us with news of a restructure; Scandic has snapped back after a very rough pandemic; Pandox eyes returning markets; while in Spain, NH and Melia record strong profits as leisure travellers return to the Med in big numbers. Recorded 3 August 2022
Third party operators look for expansion opportunities, after deepening relationships with owners during the pandemic. Takeover time in serviced apartments, as the brands chase market presence. And views on the market from south east Asia. Recorded 12 July 2022
The mismatch between broadly bearish economic outlooks and positive hotel metrics continues, how does this impact those seeking finance? And will we see recession? Tour groups revive their business, and with a new CEO, TUI looks to build an asset light business with more own branded hotels. And as Radisson steps up its EMEA expansion, we ponder its owner Jin Jiang, which despite its size gives us little in the way of visibility of its strategy. Recorded on 6 July 2022
The living sector starts to deploy more smart technology, to improve utilisation and the yield from their properties. Staff shortages continue - and are demanding ever more creative solutions. And as Qatari investors buy a slice of Ennismore, what’s the right format to expand at pace?
How can investors make the most of the potential in operational real estate? Richard Bursby and Paul Leamy of Taylor Wessing discuss what the attraction is, and how the hotelisation of student accommodation, rental homes and other buildings with beds is providing opportunities. The pair will be part of the Operational Real Estate Festival, happening on 20 September 2022 in London - more details at www.op-re.com
Economy brands Premier Inn, Scandic, Motel One and Travelodge all report stronger than expected first quarter performance. Choice buys the American part of the Radisson business - what does that mean for the future? Plus fractional ownership remains a challenge - but hotel Reits may suit investors better
Are we heading for a recession - or are too many people simply trying to talk us into one? International businesses pull out of Russia - with Marriott taking a lead in the hotel sector. And how Africa continues to be an enigmatic opportunity for hotel brands.
Why investors are teaming up with hotel operators, in the search for solid returns; as travel opens up, the pundits upgrade growth estimates - but there are growing pains, too; and as Oyo stalls its IPO, how can the tech disruptors differentiate themselves?
Subscriptions look to be delivering for Soho House - with a longer waiting list despite raised prices - who else will jump to the subscription model? With more dry powder than ever, investors are challenged to look for decent returns, often from operational real estate. (Don't forget our Operational Real Estate Festival - https://op-re.com) And as more hotel groups get to grips with reducing carbon, how will progress be measured, and the process take all participants forward together?
Hotels are just becoming aware they can be part of the electric vehicle revolution, by installing EV chargers for either a quick top-up, or to allow guests an overnight refuel. While there are costs involved, there's also a revenue stream - and an opportunity to meet growing demand from guests for chargers, where they stay. Bruce Galliford of RAW Charging explains why it makes sense to look at installing EV chargers
Results from Airbnb suggest guests are booking and staying away longer - and it's not just the digital nomads. Investors are piling into other buildings in beds, in the residential sector, requiring hotel-like operations to support their assets. And is the glass half full or half empty? Reading the latest market information, and setting it against popular sentiment, to understand what the coming months will look like in hospitality.
Franchise operators Choice and Wyndham have a great first quarter - what to do with the profits? The OTAs Booking and Expedia appear to have rediscovered their mojos, but are their share prices too optimistic. And investors like the look of third party operators, as they expand their global reach.
Thoughts from the Berlin hotel conference, where economic worries took the shine off what has, so far, been a strong recovery. But the global majors are setting such worries aside, helped by the return of the US market to 2019 levels, or even better. The laggard is China, where frustrations over the Chinese government’s Covid-19 lockdown policy are becoming evident - and forcing Chinese hotel groups to keep cutting back. Will they sell up their European operations?
Retail landlords learn that operational real estate is the key approach to reviving shopping centres - an area we'll be covering at our www.op-re.com event in September. How Chinese partners are driving the growth of Western hotel brands - but will they have the capacity to carry on? And as we chew over the positive noises of hotel chief executives in Europe, was locking down really an effective way to treat the pandemic?
Co-living gets another shot as Asian giant Capitaland commits to massive growth for its Lyf brand. Israeli group Fattal kills off the Jurys Inn brand, as it plans a fresh growth spurt. And as GreenTree mulls going private, why are overseas investors falling out of love with Chinese hotel groups?
A refresh at Travelodge, as the UK's economy hotel players rev up for a strong 2022. Why KSL has its trotters in the trough over at Pig Hotels. And as Australia reopens, so its hotel sector is awakening, with deals in the offing - and a new third party manager.
As plenty look to buy European hotels, there are few signs of distress in investment pricing. Say goodbye to Covid, as much of the world - excluding China - heads back to normal. Plus, new funders including Topland and Cynergy come into the hotel market.
Chinese hotels are stuck in stop-start mode, due to the government's zero-covid policies. Calls for more action from international brands, to pull out of Russia. Plus those getting into operational real estate look forward to a bright future.
More thoughts on how the hotel sector is setting about its carbon reduction journey; why flex office providers are excited about the future - and are becoming increasingly hotel-like; and as Europe's serviced apartment sector booms, why have so few US extended stay brands crossed the pond?
Hybrid accommodation gets a boost as new brand LyvInn launches - taking over former Meininger premises in Frankfurt. Students are back on campus - and investors are equally keen to buy into student accommodation. Plus we talk through Hotstats' review of 2021 - and what comes next.
A Ukraine war special, as we take an in-depth look at the humanitarian and economic impacts - plus some of the supportive acts as hospitality once again comes together to support those facing hardship
Hotels get to the carbon reduction challenge; franchise giants Wyndham and Choice power on with the pandemic in the rear view mirror; and CEOs at Accor and IHG ponder the return of business travel - pessimists or realists?
Results season - so how are listed companies around the hotel space faring? Hyatt is leading Hilton and Marriott in the race for growth, while CEOs were optimistic about the return of business travellers. Hotel owners Pandox, Host and Park see contrasting fortunes - largely defined by whether their hotels favour leisure travellers, or big business events and conferences. And Airbnb says it wants to sign lots more amateur hosts - but will it ever repay investors in its stratospheric valuation?
Corporates insist their staff will never travel to the same extent as they did pre-pandemic - but do we believe them? The allure of branded residences, as Marriott and Four Seasons build more stand-alones; and where are we with rent arrears?
Like a frog slowly coming to the boil in a pot, the hospitality sector has finally realised it has a problem - and it's time to look after its people better. Hotel brands and collection affiliations win, with more signups as brands outperform OTAs. And we're surely seeing a travel recovery as 2022 unfolds.
Real estate remains a major attraction for international investors - with no end of competition for hotels. Asia Pacific slowly recovers from the pandemic. Plus optimism in Spain that 2022 will see a busy summer.
There are few takers for retail space right now, and so we’re seeing a rise in conversions to hotels - but it’s not as easy as it might look. Secure Income Reit and Merlin come to an unusual lease extension agreement. And TUI is looking for well-backed partners to help them bulk up their hotel portfolio.
Looking forward as agents report increased optimism in the hotel sector. Looking back at investment deals that made it over the line towards the end of 2021. And discussing how third party managers are faring, as Henderson Park buys Amaris.
We debate the consequences of the Omicron panic, as knee jerk government reactions do more harm than good. Investor Brookfield takes a step into the left field, backing French group Experimental - so why are Accor's shares so low? And we consider whether the heat in the student accommodation market is justified, and likely to continue.
More hospitality businesses list on the public markets, and we look at one of them - Selina; amalgamating third party managers look forward to a busy 2022; and a breakthrough deal in the Italian hotel market for investor Azora
An optimistic outlook from Deloitte's annual hotel conference; why the newly listed MCG (or Soho House, as you know it) may struggle mixing growth with exclusivity; and how new banks have created a new lending environment. Plus - ever the danger when talking current affairs - we guess wrong on UK government covid policy.....
We discuss the omicron omnishambles, as government knee-jerk reactions to the new covid strain further kick the travel sector; find optimism nonetheless from hotel investors; and talk about how major hotel groups are now outsourcing tech, which means they'll enjoy smarter IT in future
Profits are up at UK hotels, as strong trading continues after the staycation summer boost. But what has the sector lost, permanently, to covid-19? With COP26 taking place, there are plenty of commitments to more sustainability - though flying remains problematic. And the Spanish hotel groups fight their way back to profit - with upmarket hotels doing particularly well.
Big groups Wyndham, Marriott and Choice bounce back, with US hotels leading the charge; the OTAs are chipper, too - but why are Airbnb shares still so overvalued? And Accor makes a big Middle Eastern play
Results season comments looking at the contrasting fortunes of Whitbread and Scandic; how variable rents are returning for landlord Pandox; and Hilton's strong performance, and even stronger optimism from CEO Chris Nassetta
TUI struggles to recover, tapping shareholders for more funds despite a busy summer. IHG's surprisingly strong summer, as it continues to cull older hotels from its US portfolio. Plus, views on recovery in the UK - will it continue as strongly as it appears. And, just as important for investors, when will lenders start tightening the screws on overleveraged hotel owners?
In conversation with Simon Allison, chairman and CEO of Hoftel, the hotel owners’ network, talking post-pandemic tensions between owners and brands. Along the way discussing how the brands love to charge, what they deliver in return - and why some owners are wondering whether those two items still remain in balance.
Investors are making a confident bid on the recovery of business travel, buying hotels in UK cities - Henderson Park being the latest to wade in. Elsewhere, student accommodation is also seeing private equity investment too. And we have more new brands - good for customer choice, or missing the mark?
Up close and personal this week with Nick Edwards, chief operating officer at Audley Group. Their Audley and Mayfield Villages are designed with active elder living in mind - much like a hotel, just one where the guests stay much longer. Nick explains Audley’s build for sale model, allied to a vertically integrated hospitality operation covering food and beverage, wellness facilities, and maintenance. It’s a growing sector, delivering a resource that benefits both residents and broader society in several ways.
Accor completes the deal with Ennismore, to create a new focused lifestyle hotel division - why are lifestyle properties performing so well? Indian disruptor Oyo prepares to list, but faces headwinds in its efforts to establish an international presence. And the big brands renew their push into China, but where's the return?
Jo Biden calls it "normalcy" - we're seeing more signs of a return to previous levels of travel. Plus, digital innovation accelerates in the accommodation space; and how Premier Inn is making an impact in an improving German market.
Early signs of distress, as The Collective sees administration in the UK and Safestay starts a strategic review: branded residences grow in scale and spread; and finding a way towards carbon neutrality
DEI - diversity, equity and inclusion is the latest acronym that company bosses need to focus on - how is the sector faring? Differing views on how the short stay sector is likely to fare, as it enjoys some post-pandemic traction. And why luxury hotel brands are fighting for city space, seemingly unhindered by the pandemic
Aparthotel operators gear up for growth after a better pandemic than hotels; the challenges valuers face, in a topsy turvy market; and thoughts as hotel investment transactions are picking up.
Differing views from the Berlin conference, as Chris Nassetta and Sebastien Bazin disagree on how travel will come back; how hotels need to act to handle cancellations; and what Europe's booming hotel pipeline will deliver.
Resort operators and tour operators Fosun, TUI and Jet2 welcome - finally - the return of punters seeking sand, sun - and, in the case of Fosun's Club Med, snow too. Co-living recovers, and investors are looking to extract a yield arbitrage; and India's major hotel companies eye opportunities and corporate splits, as the pandemic panic in the country wanes.
Airbnb results show a strong snap back in accommodation demand - but not at the expense of hotels, it seems. Hyatt’s takeover of resort group Apple shows the strength of leisure and resorts, and adds further momentum to Hyatt’s rising stock. And student accommodation providers bounce back as students book to return to campus. Investors are flocking around.
InterContinental teases its new collection brand, while culling its Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza portfolio; the pain in Spain eases, as holidaymakers from northern Europe are finally allowed to travel; and how investor KSL is tilting towards extended stay.
Second quarter results reveal how the recovery is going; how and when business travel will come back; pandemic winners Choice and Hyatt; and where European hotel groups are right now.
Challenger banks ensure debt finance is ready to support hotel projects; how alternatives such as serviced apartments and villa rentals are picking up new consumers; and why investors are still moving into student accommodation.
Deal momentum builds in the UK hotels market; after a tough pandemic, hostels are ready to bounce back - and are the big hotel groups poised to take an interest? Plus, finally, face to face meetings are on their way back into corporate diaries.
Roompot takes over Landal to create a European holiday park giant, as private equity investors buy into growth. Job cuts, and staff shortages? How hospitality is recalibrating its staffing resource. And as Spain's hotel market bookings rise towards 2019 levels, investors miss out on bargains.
News from Premier Inn and Scandic that show hotel occupancy graphs are pointing in a positive direction, across European markets; OTAs try to get respectable - but bad news is never far away; and Middle Eastern mergers as the emirates look to build their tourism offer
Frustration in England, as the UK government stalls on its roadmap out of covid restrictions; third party operators look for new business; how will a tempered return to work affect hotels? And differing views of the way ahead in the hotel sector.
Private equity gets creative in hotel investment; China's substantial market recovery gives the rest of the world hope; and TUI chases digital growth, as it sells out of hotel ownership.
Private equity moves into a consolidating holiday park market; Oyo regroups; and investment activity starts to build. Plus, Anders Nissen remembered
Accor's decided to sponsor a SPAC - into which to put all its non-accommodation initiatives; Airbnb is still losing money - and short of hosts; and with fitness front of mind after the pandemic, is there an opportunity for hotels to join in the exercise?
Buoyant hotel brands thrive, while their landlords struggle - a fair relationship? While in Spain the pain continues, as NH and Melia hoist for sale signs at their hotels. And how ground leases make sense as a source of cash for hotel owners.
The rise of holiday rentals - and how hotels will fight back; why the big hotel brands are convinced there's a return to normalcy coming; and sorting out that massive rent arrears bill.
First quarter results from Scandic, Whitbread and Pandox are out - what do the CEOs think will happen next? The weight of money coming to real estate means operational investments are to the fore. And are we ready to return to travel with purpose?
Sonder, Soho House and Inspirato list in the US, with subscriptions a key part of business for two of them; consumer behaviour is changing after the pandemic - what are the impacts? And rental platforms chase after new hosts and new inventory
Jabbing and testing - our route to international travel? How budget brands Motel One and Travelodge have fared; and how hotels are harnessing technology for efficiency, and a better guest experience
Hotel values slip, but not by much, as sellers hold out for better times; why later living is attracting big investment; and the vaccine rollout promises a return to international travel
Chinese hoteliers Huazhu and Jin Jiang see domestic business largely coming back to 2019 levels; WeWork comes to market, looking to exploit a shift in office working styles; and travel's massive covid losses
Serviced apartments remain in vogue, with the big hotel brands adding extended stay brand extensions; funds gather ££££ - but are struggling to find cheap hotels to buy; plus Dubai and Saudi Arabia look to do battle for tourism visitors. And a rant about the return of business travel - of course it will come back, and stronger than before!
Google's offering free hotel website links, as it looks to reclaim online ad revenues. More than £1bn of UK hotels are up for grabs - but there's precious little cheap debt to buy them with. And student accommodation providers shake off a bad year, confident of demand returning.
Carbon reduction, green bonds and energy saving: distress in Germany forces Invesco to reorganise; why Rosewood is listing in the US - and why don't more hotel businesses go public?
A new report encourages investment in operational real estate (ahead of our www.op-re.com event in June); contrarians Dalata and PPHE prepare to restart business; and investors keep buying hotels
The UK has a roadmap to get hotels reopened once more; why we're short on Airbnb and Booking; and who from the European hotel groups will see M&A activity?
Results season - we pick the winners and losers from the year of pandemic. Up for discussion are Wyndham and Choice; Marriott and Hilton; and Hyatt and Scandic
A frustrated Pandox waits to restart operations; understanding the dark/ghost/lean kitchen revolution; and home rentals face further regulation
Flex office providers suffer short term, but look to a positive future, as the world of offices reshapes - will hotels have a place in the mix? Spain's audacious transformation plan, if only they can tap into EU funds; and AccorInvest sells up in Africa
Thoughts on international travel recovery; Huazhu delivers an update ahead of expectations as the Chinese market rebounds; and as funds pour into real estate, how buildings with beds will feature ever larger for investors
Serviced apartment operator Room2 inks a significant investment deal; UK hospitality looks at all avenues to rescue cashflow; and PE investor ActivumSG likes the look of hotels so much, it buys an operating company - Odyssey
Positive trading update from Whitbread; how UNCLE is transforming the private rented sector in the UK; and the tough few months independent hotels are facing as they come out of lockdowns
Brands pick up hotels in Spain as owners look for better returns; who's ready to take over who in 2021? and the hotel group that had a great 2020 - fast-growing Sonesta
An editorial summit as Andrew Sangster and Maria Puetz-Willems of HospitalityInside chew over covid lockdowns, Brexit, and the outlook for the hospitality sector across Europe in 2021
Reflections on 2020, what to look forward to in 2021 - an update from Dalata; Expedia's hopes for technology; and what will drive loyalty as travel comes back?
Hotel groups up the homestay ante, as Airbnb lists; tour groups ready for a better 2021; and London retains its long term attraction for hotel brands
Reasons to be cheerful, and plan for a confident rebound for hotels? Most Travelodge landlords stay, but more than a dozen so far have opted to rebrand; and councils need to get sensible, and invest in hotels - rather than random office blocks
In discussion with hotelier Surinder Arora, who's had an extremely tough 2020, and banker Mo Sondhi of OakNorth Bank, as they navigate their way through tough times and look ahead
Airbnb finally lists - worth a punt? Collection brands have a banner year, but are they the answer for independents? And what shape will the recovery graph be?
Scandic is the latest hotel group to call for renegotiation of leases; more pain in Spain for NH, Melia; and listed REITs count the cost of rent shortfalls and lower valuations
Bullish thoughts as a vaccine is revealed! Results from the big brands, PwC reports on the UK market outlook, and opportunities for the upturn, as hotel landlords strip out costs
Results season - numbers from Whitbread, as they acquire 15 more hotels in Germany, Pandox, Accor, IHG; and is slumbering giant Jin Jiang finally going to tidy up its many European acquisitions?
Hotels embrace daily room rentals as WFH becomes working from hotel; plans to get travel moving again; stats on staycations; and five stars to the new IPSX stock exchange
Sustainability - is the hotel industry, finally, going to get to it in a meaningful way? Tough times for hostel operators including @safestay and @a&o and as deal flow in the UK hotel market recovers, are buyers playing the long game - or simply deluded?
Contracts under pressure mean brands change hands; time to build back better; operational real estate gains more followers; and the good and bad about Huazhu
This week featuring a deep dive into the extended stay market, with special guest Stephen McCall, CEO of Edyn
Corporate culls - short term gain, long term....? Airbnb enjoys a summer boost; and why wellness is the next trend hoteliers need to understand.
Investors hold back as covid-19 uncertainty pervades; what next in the OTA space? and how more effective cleaning could also become more efficient
Dalata sticks to fixed leases; big brands let parts of their portfolios slip away - why? and the third party managers look forward to growth
From recent quarterly results, we tease out: big picture predictions about commercial property; the latest merger rumour features IHG and Accor, how could that work? and how markets around the globe are recovering
UK regions enjoy a staycation boom; what's happening in student accommodation; and Spanish hotel groups hope the worst is over
Suitors line up to tempt Travelodge landlords - how many will jump? Pandox and Scandic show how the lockdown has hit tenants more than landlords; and a review of the latest surveys - when will travel return to normal?
Hospitality boosted by UK chancellor's giveaway; Huazhu's recovery experience in China; why some investors are shifting from hotels; and farewell to Room Key, and to HomeAway
Travelodge landlords declare a truce - but is it all back to normal? Roompot deal proves holiday parks are an investor hotspot; and how The Ascott is staying ahead in serviced apartments
Takeaways from the Real Estate Tomorrow conference: accelerating change; challenged investors; pressure to change fixed leases. Plus meetings start to come back, slowly
Hotel companies are more in debt than during the financial crisis - does that matter? Will consumers choose clean hotels over homestays? and Scandinavian hotel groups shore up their capital structures
Travelodge battles with its landlords; why Best Western is enjoying a fantastic 2020; and what's in store for players in the flexible office market
Why adventurous investors like the look of self storage; Spain's hotels hope to be able to draw in foreign tourists, soon; and Neil Young applies his Get Living experience across hospitality
We're joined by ex head of Meininger, Navneet Bali, who shares views on the current situation, where the opportunities lie, and tells us what he's planning next in the blended accommodation space, with new brand LyvInn
Are deep-pocketed investors right to be excited about coming opportunities in the hotel sector? How will brand standards change in a post-covid world? And tenants wrestle with landlords over rents
Maria Puetz-Willems of HospitalityInside and Jeff Weinstein from Hotelsmag once again give an international perspective on how covid-19 is battering the hospitality industry globally
Why hotel group Pandox is in good shape to ride out the crisis; why REITs are struggling; and the troubles of Signature Living - another fractional ownership structure
With guest Tom Page of CMS, we discuss cleanliness, as hotels come up with new hygiene regimes; discussions and punch-ups between landlords and hotel operators; and how domestic business will lead the recovery
Hotel deals are still completing, but will the pipeline dry up? How will operational real estate businesses such as serviced offices fare post covid-19? And who will win the battle of the OTAs?
Joined by guest Andrew Harrington of AHV Associates, we discuss takeaways from the "Hospitality Tomorrow" virtual conference; views on the shape of hospitality's recovery; and which hotel brands will emerge in good shape
When and how will the upturn come? When will private equity investors make a play for hotel industry assets? And how bad is the outlook for Spain and other Mediterranean destinations?
A special this week, as Maria Puetz-Willems of HospitalityInside and Jeff Weinstein from Hotelsmag contribute their thoughts on how hospitality is being impacted by covid-19 - and how it will respond
How long will covid-19 impact hospitality? What the brands and large hotel companies are doing in response; why now is a good time to break some of the old rules; and how blended living could make for better living in future
How long will coronavirus hit the hospitality industry? And will government support really keep the sector afloat? And the threat of the sharing economy fades, as Airbnb struggles to maintain momentum
2019 was a Goldilocks year for Europe's hotels - but now coronavirus and the angry bears are in the house; more new brands - but do they mean anything? And alternatives - hostels, serviced apartments - continue to expand and attract mainstream capital
Our takeaways from results season; why Morocco's hotel investment opportunities just got interesting; and how student accommodation is attracting ever more capital
Results from Hilton and Scandic; coronavirus and politics hinder hospitality; and Hamilton merges with Pyramid
London's flexible office market is buzzing with M&A and new launches - and learning from hotels; Laura Ashley links with Preferred for international growth; Safestay stakes out its space in the hostel market
How do superbudget brands easyHotel and OYO compare? Why hoteliers are joining private rented operators; and what Accor stands to win, from creating a new digital platform with Sabre
Whitbread decides to cull its smaller UK Premier Inns, as efficiency is the name of the game; microliving developments grow and claim their first hotel property; and Christie's outlook for 2020 - hotels continue to deliver investment value
How do new brands gain traction? Rogue City, and Hilton's Tempo discussed; how third party managers are growing internationally; and online regulators trip up the big brands, as well as the OTAs
A plethora of turn of the year deals - what's driving the volume? Why senior living could challenge hoteliers for the best talent; and India's promise of good things to come.....
What next for Expedia, as OTAs face challenging times; investment opportunities in residential alternatives; and how Accor has become asset light - time for that last, BIG, hotel merger?
In which we discuss the German hotel market, as Radisson goes all-in; cash burned as the disruptors try to build traction; and serviced apartments up their game to attract investors
AJ Capital Partners grab two trophy hotels from Macdonald - what next for the mid-market brand? Airbnb goes legit with Olympic sponsorship, but are costs getting out of hand? and mainland European opportunities in student housing
Spanish investor Millenium ups the pace as it spots hotel investment opportunities; Japan gets ready for the Olympics, but remains a tough hotel market for outsiders; and co-living becomes an increasingly significant global phenomenon
Fast growing Chinese hotel group Huazhu spends €700m buying Deutsche Hospitality - what next? A defining moment for OTAS? And Spanish groups NH and Melia plough diverging furrows
Radisson shows strength, as US markets falter - and Marriott pins hopes on Bonvoy; why Sykes has attracted new private equity backing - but are home rental businesses overvalued? And thoughts from the Deloitte hotel conference, year on year
Hilton looks on the bright side as the cycle turns; why an overnight stay at the pub is proving popular; and why the serviced apartment sector is performing so well
We're talking loyalty programmes, and how they are driving Marriott and IHG to do new deals; why serious investment is heading into co-living; and a look at the Chinese market, Huazhu's growth and the future for Hong Kong
Alternative accommodation feels the heat from regulators - as Andrew has a Japanese wake-up call; travel faces sustainability scrutiny; and Accor's solid quarter
Takeaways from the UK's Annual Hotel Conference; upcoming brands in the accommmodation marketplace as Oyo grabs more funding; and who will buy Center Parcs?
Industry conferences are a great opportunity to catch the mood - we reflect on three recent such events, including our own Hotel Distribution Event; Hot.E; and Christie's update on the French market. Plus, why AXA bought 11 hotels from Principal for €545m
Now Airbnb says it will IPO - how likely is it to make the grade? Hoteliers count the cost of the loss of Thomas Cook; and why asking accountants how to tax Scottish tourists is a bad idea
As WeWork pulls its IPO, where are the opportunities for hotels to get into coworking? Brands vs OTAs - has a truce broken out? And dual branded, or double decker hotels start to make their mark across Europe
How UK listed hotel group PPHE is shining in the busy London market, and looking for opportunities to expand elsewhere; what planners can do to limit the nuisance of short term lets under platforms such as Airbnb, in urban centres - with authorities in Bath testing the law; and as Travelodge battles Brexit challenges, where next for the squeezed middle market hotel chains?
Why are hotel deals still on the rise, despite falling European hotel performance? How Dalata has carved out a successful path and is set for further growth; and what the merger of Aimbridge and Interstate could mean for hotel management
Why Indian upstart Oyo has bought the Hooters casino hotel in Vegas; Q2 updates from Choice and Wyndham compared; and what the takeover of Greene King means for the brewer's accommodation portfolio
We drill into the detail of Q2 results from Marriott and IHG, as their home US markets soften; plus what's happening next at easyHotel, as an opening bid is made
Positive results from Accor - who will they buy next? Tougher times in the USA for Hilton; and an update on the OTA marketplace with numbers from Expedia
What next for expanding hotel landlord #Pandox? Where next for Scandinavian operator #Scandic, as its new CEO promises to clear out non-performing properties? And the latest moves to increase the % of Europe's branded hotels - with honorable mention for franchise leader #Hilton
Run-ins with regulators, as Airbnb wins approval, Marriott gets fined for its data breach, and resort fees are declared illegal; tough times for Frasers, as Hotel du Vin and Malmaison struggle in a tight F&B market; and Thomas Cook finds a saviour in Chinese investor Fosun
As private members clubs grow, what can they teach hotels? Serviced apartments are outperforming hotel investments across Europe; and as casino groups merge, we muse on their business model - is it about gambling, or being a resort?
What does the UK's tourism sector deal actually mean, and is it actually heading in the right direction? How Jin Jiang is starting to add a Chinese twist to acquisition Radisson; and how app Hopper is bringing AI to hotel room pricing - what will that mean for revenue managers?
What next for Whitbread, as revpar starts to fall? A zombie falls, as Macdonald sells out; and why authorities need to fix housing, not just fiddle with rules around home sharing and Airbnb
Featuring news of a new credit card from Marriott - too little too late?; complaints about pricing and OTAs; and more deals involving the debt instrument of the moment, ground rents
Talking hotel alternatives, as BlackRock puts substantial fresh investment funds into the maturing hostel sector alongside Amistat; and as aparthotels gather pace, too. Plus a look at hotel investment in Europe, as Schroders buys more assets in Belgium
This week featuring tourism taxes, and why they are often badly executed; how Iceland's growth was down to an overly cheap airline; and how Thomas Cook will fare, in the hands of new Chinese owners
Why hotel yields appear to be shrinking, despite weaker performance; Tripadvisor disappoints - where next for the OTA? and in economy, Huazhu stretches its legs while B&B is up for sale
Covering a Hotel Operations Conference roundup - why third party managers are eyeing luxury brands; how staff challenges are weighing on hotels. Plus, investment in Indian Hotels - and a few views on the Euro elections and Brexit.....
This week, discussion of #Accor as it launches its coworking initiative Wojo at scale; owner manager hotels as M&C looks to stronger branding; and #Choice hotels decides now is the time to head into Europe
All the Hs - as Hilton, Hyatt and Host share contrasting views on sharing; why IHG is looking East for growth; and what Expedia's new Vrbo is all about (and how to pronounce it)
After piloting home rentals, #Marriott decides to take its offering global; underwhelming update from #Whitbread; and what's happening with room cancellations
In which we discuss new research from Amadeus and IHG about what guests really want; the growth of the Global Hotel Alliance; and pipeline in Africa, land of opportunity, if only you can get over its unique challenges
Marriott finally settles its new deal with Expedia; could more ground rent deals signal problems down the line for hotel assets? And an update on hotel markets in the Middle East
What a €750m investment from Singapore will mean to CitizenM; why Ireland's hotel market still has room to grow, despite some fearing parts of the Irish property market are overheating; and what Google is up to, as it adds home rental search to its hotel listings
A look at Oyo, as Airbnb confirms it is buying a stake in the Indian disruptor; Christie & Co and Motel One both report on likely upcoming pain in Germany; and Huazhu corners the economy sector in China, announcing plans to head upmarket
A deep dive into Marriott. Comment on the company's security analyst meeting, at which Marriott revealed progress following the Starwood integration; a focus on quality over quantity; distribution and loyalty programme success; and many more interesting details
Why investors are taking a stake in hotel asset managers - a share of the upside; Airbnb finally admits it is an OTA, and buys HotelTonight; and as more brands are launched, how we should see them as families
Confidence misplaced? A review of the Berlin hotel conference, where industry leaders were bullish - despite looming economic clouds; Accor's loyalty revamp; SACO; and investors move into operations
This week, Irish hotel group Dalata's structure and latest moves; why Booking.com's focusing on homestays, and why its share price dropped; and how Spanish groups Melia and NH are faring
It's results season - we review the numbers, and the CEO comments, from always-busy #Accor, acquisitive #IHG, #Hyatt, and franchise specialists #Choice and #Wyndham
In which we discuss IHG's acquisition of Six Senses, Whitbread's plans for expansion in Germany, and the actions of UK regulators against online travel agents
Takeaways from the Hotel Alternatives conference; why Aprirose is building its own hotel management platform, supported by Kew Green; and Airbnb moves into meeting room bookings
Takeover for Zleep, setting the Scandinavian budget brand up for expansion south; what Accor is doing with its Ibis brand refresh; and why brewer Fullers is selling out of brewing, to concentrate on hotels and pubs
Views on Whitbread and its Premier Inn challenge; lessons as Ryanair trims its wings as it abandons plans to be the "Amazon of travel"; and where Marriott needs to take its refreshed loyalty programme, Bonvoy.
Featuring new European hotel landlord Archer Capital; overtourism and bids by Edinburgh and Venice to launch visitor taxes; and M&C's latest deal with Hilton, creating The Biltmore in London
In which we discuss luxury brands and Accor's launch of Orient Express; Lemon Tree launching co-living in India; and Airbnb's recent New York legal success
This week's topics - Indian disruptor Oyo builds tensions; the Belmond sale to LVMH; and our pre-Christmas predictions of the outcome of the lengthy Brexit process
We discuss the impact of the Marriott data breach; drill into Expedia's strategy and likely future challenges; and review how Accor is changing its growth strategy
The latest action in the dynamic hostel sector; what Airbnb's been up to recently; and how you can now buy Melia hotel rooms on Amazon
Hear the story behind acquisitive Thai group Minor: find out how Rocco Forte is expanding in Italy: and musings on European markets as private equity struggles to find opportunities
Focus on luxury brands including Belmond: what Choice is doing, teaming up with Google: and as Motel One warns, how overheated is the German market?
In which we discuss Marriott's quarterly results, and push for greater profitability; the attitude of the big hotel landlords towards brands; and what we learnt from the mood at the 30th Deloitte European hotel investment conference
This week discussing Expedia's forays into homestays; why Hilton looks to have got it right with Motto; and why property leases are in favour with Scandinavian groups Pandox and Radisson
What's the idea behind Whitbread's new Zip budget hotel brand? What did we spot in IHG's latest results? And when will Accor's policy of trying lots of different new ideas really start to pay off?