In a world of constant connection, hotel properties can no longer ignore the prevalence of mobile devices and connectivity. With eighty-five percent of travelers bringing their smartphones on leisure trips, eighty-eight percent bringing it on business trips and eighty-two percent bringing laptops on business trips, connectivity is no longer a convenience, rather a necessity. Easy-to-access outlets and USB ports for charging and smart lighting controls are imperative for enhancing today’s hotel spaces. Hotel decision makers need to keep guest preferences top of mind, install smart lighting and have ample access to power both inside and out – all which can improve guests’ overall experience. READ MORE

The craft beverage movement has revolutionized the liquor and beer industry over the last several decades. This has been fueled in part by growing consumer demand for drinks that are somehow different than what has become the archetype of mass-produced beer, whiskey and vodka. With the millennial generation now a serious demographic affecting what new products come to market, and which brands thrive or fade in to obscurity, the old guard of category controlling brands is starting to shift. The once obscure sector of small batch drinks is now a primary influence in how brands market themselves in an all too baroque competition of an overcrowded industry. READ MORE

Every hotelier has struggled with a dreaded slow season. Many have struggled through years of an economic downturn only to come out victorious on the other side - if weathered and savvier from the experience. The secret weapon to beat these downtimes is ancillary revenue streams. With more than 15 years of experience helping hoteliers combat market challenges and drive revenue, Lily Mockerman, founder and CEO of Total Customized Revenue Management, LLC (TCRM), shares her hard-won advice to help hoteliers innovate when times get tough and reach rock star status in ancillary revenue. READ MORE

Today, millennials are on the verge of becoming the largest living adult generation in the United States, making them the ideal target for hotel brands and their marketing campaigns. But, in order for marketers to generate the greatest number of sales this year, they must develop and execute a comprehensive strategy designed specifically to reach and engage millennial customers at multiple touchpoints. It won’t be a “one and done” campaign, but the below piece will explore three different ways hotel brands can test the waters with this audience and eventually craft the perfect brand image that aligns with this generation. READ MORE

Food and beverage outlets are oftentimes the leaders at your property (or should be!) in keeping up with the latest, coolest trends. Let's face it, the latest food craze will come and go almost as quickly the next pop star and social media platform. And what group is leading the charge in those trends? The same group that is leading the technology trends - the Millennial! Millennials have shown that they are a force to not be brushed aside. And if you are not at least doing something to ensure their business, your property could be missing out on big revenues. One problem; how do you ensure those revenues show profits? READ MORE