A surefire way to drive additional revenue and profit is to include Value Add Packages as part of Hotel Revenue Strategy. Value Add Packages are a unique way to pique guest attention, provide them with an experience that is more than just your typical overnight stay and create a perception of value. Additionally, it drives guests to our own more profitable website that has fewer associated costs than an OTA or other more costly channels. In this article we explore the concept of Value-Add Packages and review some really effective packages that will work for your hotel. READ MORE

More often now the term 'revenue strategy' is being used to describe the process of creating, capturing and managing demand. It's a broader, all-encompassing expression than 'revenue management' and implies a more comprehensive approach to optimizing revenues and profit. But in changing the nomenclature, are hotels really changing the way they do business? Some are, most are not. And why is that? Well, the hard truth is that the industry faces many barriers to fully adopting a total revenue management approach; however, articulating and acknowledging those barriers is a good first step to overcoming them. READ MORE

Today, some of the foremost hotel security threats are crimes on which insurers have started to tighten the reigns. These include abuse (both sexual and physical), battery and molestation. Adding to the mix is the despicable global crime of human trafficking. Each of these emerging threats brings new questions for hotels and their employees, including how employees can identify this type of deviant activity. This article walks you through each of these emerging threats and explores the risks, the potential solutions, the value of getting it right, and the ever-expanding costs of allowing this type of activity at your hotel. READ MORE

Illinois hotels and their restaurant, banquet and spa outlets are – more than ever – dedicating resources to establish eco-friendly practices that aim to preserve our environment. There is an abundance of ways hotels are being mindful in their everyday business practices, including initiatives ranging from monitoring for energy and water efficiency to reducing plastics, crafting sustainable wine lists and even placing used furniture with those in need. As one of the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association's core platforms, we explore how hotels nationwide can implement thoughtful, sustainable and turnkey practices as exemplified by others leading the way in this critical effort. READ MORE

Remember when rooftop bars and cool restaurants were novel? What was once unique enough to rile up crowds and delight hotel guests has now become the norm. Fortunately, hoteliers are now looking for fresh ways to connect with – and inspire – the communities that surround them. David Ashen, president & CEO of interior design and brand consulting firm dash design, examines what's behind this shift and some top ways today's brands are answering the call for connection, from art installations that excite to socially-conscious initiatives and more, hotels are more than a mere place for heads in beds. READ MORE