Business interruption is a significant and ongoing concern for hoteliers. Restricted access to a property, physical threats or an unexpected closure can have a devastating impact on their revenues, reputation or even their viability. Hotels face a wide variety of risks-from natural disasters, to cyber threats to terrorism attacks to health-related threats like waterborne bacteria. Understanding the various exposures and insurance options available to address them is not only the first step to protecting guests, employees and assets, it can also minimize losses and reputational damage, and ensure a quicker recovery. READ MORE

According to one report, millennials account for a third of all hotel guests world-wide; a number that is projected to increase to 50% by 2020. To attract this market, hotels need to focus on providing a unique experience, mixed with good design and aesthetics. Studies indicated that Millennials value unique, authentic, value-rich, community-based hotel properties. To meet this demand, boutique hotels as well as national chains are developing new properties specifically targeting this niche. At the same time, there are many hotel properties that embraced Millennial values as part of their business philosophy. One particular Pacific Northwest firm, McMenamins, was “millennial” before they were born. READ MORE

In recent years, the amount of litigation involving tips, gratuities, and service charges in the hospitality industry has increased exponentially. Both hotel and restaurant operators have found themselves to be the targets of a variety of claims arising from the manner in which they pay their food and beverage staff. As a result, it is important to understand the difference between gratuities and service charges when negotiating any kind of agreement for a group function or event. The proper designation of these items in contracts as well as the underlying documents can be instrumental in helping to prevent compensation disputes and lawsuits. READ MORE

Now more than ever, business travelers, like leisure guests, are looking for immersive experiences that are aligned with a destination's local appeal, rather than a simple room with a bed. As the lines between business and leisure travel are becoming increasingly blurred, and with the millennial traveler's expectations evolving the way hotels market themselves, the InterContinental Hotel in Downtown Miami is staying ahead of the curve by adapting to changing expectations among its clientele. READ MORE

The ways in which technology is being used by the hospitality and meetings industry and by individuals in all walks of life increases, it seems, minute by minute! New apps, new uses for AI, more shortcuts to do our work. And with all of this comes removal of personal interaction – sheesh, even Linkedin, used by most of us for business connections, has an auto-respond option so we can click v. think and respond. An early tech adapter, I wonder how much we are harming our relationship-industry and removing jobs from those who need them. Is there a compromise? READ MORE