As a result of today's economy, customers are more likely to seek value rather than luxurious amenities when deciding on a hotel. This is a great opportunity for value properties to snatch up new customers - those who would typically stay at higher-end properties. Yet, the economy will rebound, so you'll want to make sure that you, your staff and your property make the best impression possible in order to gain customers for life. So, how can you turn a budget property into a four-star experience? Keep reading. READ MORE

Just over 10 years ago, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy created a joint program, ENERGY STARR. It assists businesses in tracking energy consumption and protecting the environment through energy efficient products and practices. With this energy performance system, energy managers can benchmark the energy consumption of their buildings against similar buildings nationwide. READ MORE

The economic indicators that track occupancy, room revenue and average daily rates appear to be going from worse to still worse. The dollar value of commercial mortgage-backed securities issued in connection with hotels during the past few years is reportedly a very intimidating $30 billion. One of the key concerns on everyone's mind is what happens next? In these times the underlying mechanism may begin with a deed in lieu of foreclosure, or the court appointment of a receiver to assert dominion and control over the hotel. Some of these matters will go right to litigation with no intervening process to attempt to negotiate a resolution. Some of these matters, and perhaps it will be a majority of these matters, will be resolved through negotiation to try to achieve a workable result and preserve any capital that might remain for the preservation of the asset rather than the payment of professional fees. This compelling article will assist owners and operators, alike as they navigate these treacherous waters. READ MORE

As we know from experience, the economic pressures affecting the hospitality industry can create contract-related pressures for hotel owners and operators. As an example, disputes frequently arise during economic downturns between hotel owners and operators concerning their rights and duties under their management agreements. The industry's key players need to understand how hotel management agreements are likely to be interpreted and what they can do to protect their rights. READ MORE

The hotel spa business is maturing and is now faced with greater competition plus a consumer recession. New beauty providers are now targeting frequently used services and are eroding profitability for the established players. Beauty salons/spas, especially at the upper end of the market, are offering more lucrative skin care and body shaping treatments. Demand for these new and high-tech treatments has also been showing double-digit growth rates for years. There are significant barriers to entering this market but hotel spas have the option to provide these new treatments. READ MORE