Hotel Industry News

PhocusWire's in-depth coverage of the hotel sector, featuring news, analysis, interviews, research and more on B&Bs, hotels, guesthouses and other property types.

The hotel sector is undergoing significant transformation, powered by new technologies, evolving guest expectations, and a renewed focus on direct booking and operational efficiency. PhocusWire delivers the latest hotel industry news, covering the strategies and innovations shaping the future of global hospitality.

Hotel chain developments, hospitality trends, and market shifts

Stay updated on how hotel brands are expanding, restructuring, and embracing digital platforms to elevate the guest experience. From contactless check-in and AI-powered pricing to loyalty evolution and branded residential offerings, our coverage tracks the industry’s response to changing demand and competitive pressure.

Finding solutions for travel disruptions in an age of climate change
News / Technology
Finding solutions for travel disruptions in an age of climate change
By Derek Catron | November 27, 2023
Travel industry leaders weigh in on the need for companies to be more proactive about helping customers when travel disruptions occur.   Read More
Data Appeal acquires majority stake in travel insight firm Mabrian Technologies
News / Technology
Data Appeal acquires majority stake in travel insight firm Mabrian Technologies
By Linda Fox | November 22, 2023
The companies said the deal will lead to the creation of the “largest data intelligence company specializing in tourism in Europe.” Read More
Sprints, squads and small changes - how Skyscanner, Trivago view innovation
News / Technology
Sprints, squads and small changes - how Skyscanner, Trivago view innovation
By Linda Fox | November 22, 2023
Skyscanner CEO John Mangelaars and Trivago CEO Johannes Thomas discussed innovation in travel metasearch, the impact of AI and improving the user experience. Read More
Outsite receives €300M in real estate funding as part of new partnership
News / Online
Outsite receives €300M in real estate funding as part of new partnership
By Morgan Hines | November 21, 2023
The company, which provides accommodations for digital nomads, is looking to grow its property count in Europe.  Read More
India-based travel solutions provider RateGain raises $72M
News / Technology
India-based travel solutions provider RateGain raises $72M
By Derek Catron | November 21, 2023
RateGain will use the funds for strategic investments and inorganic growth such as acquisitions.   Read More
Grazzy inks partnership for digital tipping with Hyatt
News / Technology
Grazzy inks partnership for digital tipping with Hyatt
By Linda Fox | November 21, 2023
The partnership means that Grazzy’s tipping solutions can be used across Hyatt’s locations, helping hotel employees earn extra cash. Read More
Trip.com Group attributes revenue gains to travel's "substantial recovery"
News / Online
Trip.com Group attributes revenue gains to travel's "substantial recovery"
By Linda Fox | November 21, 2023
During an earnings call James Liang, Trip.com Group's chairman, added that outbound business is “rapidly recovering” and that the company anticipates “a continuously strong demand for outbound travel in... Read More
Velocity Ventures invests in ByHours to support Asian expansion
News / Startups
Velocity Ventures invests in ByHours to support Asian expansion
By WebinTravel | November 20, 2023
The rising demand for microstays, particularly the unique three-hour pack, indicates a trend in consumer expectations in the hospitality sector.  Read More
Virdee closes $12.4M Series A to fuel growth in hospitality sector
News / Startups
Virdee closes $12.4M Series A to fuel growth in hospitality sector
By Mitra Sorrells | November 20, 2023
Virdee’s platform automates all front desk transactions to improve the guest experience, eliminate lines and enable staff to focus on guest engagement.  Read More
Airbnb, Mondee moves signal role of acquisitions in travel's race for AI
News / Technology
Airbnb, Mondee moves signal role of acquisitions in travel's race for AI
By Morgan Hines & Linda Fox | November 17, 2023
Last week's acquisitions by Airbnb and Mondee reflect a business strategy of chasing speed as the travel industry heads enter the AI race. Read More
Phocuswright inducts Flo Lugli and Steve Kaufer to Hall of Fame
News / Distribution
Phocuswright inducts Flo Lugli and Steve Kaufer to Hall of Fame
By PhocusWire | November 16, 2023
The latest inductees to the Phocuswright Hall of Fame are Flo Lugli, principal at Navesink, and Tripadvisor founder Steve Kaufer.     Read More
Sutherland Global on creating an enriched, omnichannel experience in travel
From Our Partners / Online
Sutherland Global on creating an enriched, omnichannel experience in travel
By PhocusWire | November 16, 2023
Sutherland operates around the globe to help airlines, hotels, online travel agencies and travel management companies drive revenue, optimize costs and enhance experiences. Read More
Announcing The Phocuswright Conference 2023 Innovation: Launch Winners
News / Startups
Announcing The Phocuswright Conference 2023 Innovation: Launch Winners
By PhocusWire | November 15, 2023
Eleven companies presented in Phocuswright Innovation Launch and the winners represent the most promising of this elite group. Read More
Emerging markets transforming the global travel payment landscape
From Our Partners / Online
Emerging markets transforming the global travel payment landscape
By Koert Grasveld and Maria Sellar - TerraPay | November 15, 2023
Focusing on the right payment strategy will allow travel companies and providers to further expand their capabilities around the globe and to fast-track their growth. Read More
How to capture Gen Z travelers’ interest on social media
News / Online
How to capture Gen Z travelers’ interest on social media
By Morgan Hines | November 14, 2023
Meta, Snap Inc. and Hostelworld share steps to take for brands looking to attract a younger traveling audience on social media. Read More
The Phocuswright Conference 2026