Understanding the macro-environment and being ahead of the curve (i.e. before the data provides hard evidence of such in hindsight) in such capacity provides owners and managers the ability to most timely make important decisions that impact profitability and asset valuation. Are you a hotel builder? We look at how purchasing lumber in the middle of an economic slowdown can be advantageous to the future success of your hotel development and investment. Buy Right, Build Right, Manage Right. READ MORE

Apprenticeships have been around for centuries. But as labor markets tighten and college costs rise, culinary apprenticeship programs like that of the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation are updating their curriculums and requirements to meet the needs of 21st century students and chefs. Mobile-friendly work logs and online classes, as well as options for quicker graduation timelines, have been implemented to make sure that students, no matter where or who they are, can become culinary apprentices and, soon, the chefs of tomorrow. With the rise of modernized apprenticeships, the future workforce will be more prepared than ever before. READ MORE

With guests paying more attention than ever to their food choices, hotels are reinventing the usual lighter summer menus to include more plant-based, non-GMO, gluten-free, and even keto options. Hotel bars are also taking center stage with new summer-ready mixology and hoteliers are doing their part to reduce food waste across the country. This article looks at five emerging food and beverage trends that will take over summer 2019 including wellness-centered menus for business travelers and fitness enthusiasts, plant-based food offerings for full-time vegans and vegetarians as well as flexitarians, and more inclusive offerings with globally-inspired menus. READ MORE

The hotel food and beverage industry has witnessed healthy growth over the past couple of years, and with this growth there have been a few shake-ups. Mobile and on-demand access have become the new trademarks for this sector, which has steadily transitioned toward innovative new technologies and even redefined business strategies. Hotels and resorts are finding success driving new business in areas such as digital ordering and delivery, social influencers, and increased support for specialty, allergen-friendly and farm-to-table options. READ MORE

Calling all hotels and concept innovators: I am waiting to be swept off my feet by a hotel. We consumers have moved on from seeking on products; and the current obsession with experiences is yesterday's news. But creating products that deliver unique personalised experiences that resonate with consumers is a tough gig and many hospitality companies are still trying to crack it. But we're getting there and the concept creation process is stepping up a gear, using a blend of tangible and intangible tools to create next-generation offerings. It's time we for a more nuanced way to underwrite these deals. READ MORE