Managing reputation risk in the hotel industry today is like operating in the reputational equivalent of a tornado zone. These are incidents that strike quickly and suddenly and are often beyond management's control. Anything from inappropriate or criminal behavior by guests to a hotel's response to a natural disaster can destroy a brand's reputation and impact its business in tangible, measurable ways. Stakeholders need to feel confident that the company has processes in place to mitigate these risks, prevent reputational damage and recover from it when it occurs. But how do hotels communicate that without inviting the attention of potentially malicious actors? READ MORE

The hospitality industry's shift toward technology solutions is a recent development. Not that long ago in fact, fax, paper and legacy systems ruled the industry. But in today's online and connected world, the technology boom has firmly taken hold, big data and analytics are finally ingrained in the hospitality professionals' day. In this article, Gino Engels offers his insights on how data reshaped the online booking landscape. We will explore the value of data, from automation and time-saving to personalization through predictive analytics. Lastly, we'll show you how to gain a competitive edge by capitalizing on different data-sources. READ MORE

Viva Las Vegas - “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” - not anymore, at least not when it comes to hotel security in the aftermath of the 2017 Las Vegas shooting, the deadliest mass shooting in the United States by an individual. Hotel owners, operators and brands are taking a hard look at their security policies and procedures with an eye on balancing the safety and privacy of their guests, and safety of members of the community surrounding their hotel, with the comfort and “hospitable” environment that guests expect in hotels. This article will explore whether the Las Vegas shooting will significantly change the way hotel owners, operators and brands approach their security procedures. READ MORE

The Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is the definition of luxury -- an urban oasis surrounded by the decadence and glamour of West Hollywood, California. Through ongoing sustainability initiatives, their staff have learned that you don't have to sacrifice guest experience or quality of service to be green. In fact, being green can improve guest enjoyment and impart a lasting impression that keeps them coming back. In this interview, Rex Umbay, Director of Engineering at the Sofitel Los Angeles for 4.5 years, explains why sustainability is important, shares the lessons he's learned through the hotel's sustainability journey, and offers practical “how-to” advice for other hotels looking to go green. READ MORE

Spire Hospitality, one of the nation's leading and most respected hotel management companies, identifies and implements green initiatives across its nearly two-dozen managed properties, aiding in the reduction of the environmental impact of the industry, serving as good stewards for the earth's resources and the communities where each hotel calls home and forecasting how integrating simple, sustainable practices can positively impact the bottom line. Tim Foley, vice president of operations, shares insight into which green practices are most easily implemented and how to encourage and measure the environmental and financial impact of green tourism. READ MORE