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.

GBTA exhibitor news
News / Technology
Egencia, Yapta, Traxo and more product news from GBTA
By Mitra Sorrells | August 15, 2018
The Global Business Travel Association’s annual convention wraps up today at the San Diego Convention Center.  Read More
VIDEO: The new hotel power in Europe
News / Distribution
VIDEO: The new hotel power in Europe
By PhocusWire | August 15, 2018
The hotel sector in Europe is vastly different from its counterpart in North America, primarily due to the high volume of independent properties. Read More
How the flywheel of innovation is propelling business travel forward
Opinion / Technology
How the flywheel of innovation is propelling business travel forward
By Rob Greyber - Egencia | August 15, 2018
We are on the cusp of a new era in business travel. Advances in technology are driving us forward at breakneck speed. The industry is rife with new - but lately struggling - startups: online booking... Read More
Wegogo blockchain travel platform
News / Distribution
Wegogo aims for fair-share travel platform, alternative to web agency dominance
By Mitra Sorrells | August 14, 2018
In the midst of growth plans, Wegogo is forging ahead with the introduction of blockchain-based tech and the creation of its cryptocurrency known as WeGold. Read More
Has Airbnb booked its place at the top of the accommodation hierarchy?
Opinion / Distribution
Has Airbnb booked its place at the top of the accommodation hierarchy?
By Lucia Juliano - Harris Interactive | August 14, 2018
Airbnb celebrates its 10th birthday this year - a decade after its founders first rented out an air mattress in their living room to help pay the rent. Read More
Expedia Group pays $60M to buy out AirAsia from AirAsiaGo platform
News / Online
Expedia Group pays $60M to buy out AirAsia from AirAsiaGo platform
By Kevin May | August 14, 2018
An investment of $60 million has brought to an end a seven-year joint venture between Expedia Group and AirAsia to sell the airline's tickets alongside hotels. Read More
Surveying the travel startup landscape, part 2: Front line tips from the founders
News / Startups
Surveying the travel startup landscape, part 2: Front line tips from the founders
By Mitra Sorrells | August 13, 2018
For the second piece in our series on startups, we go to the front lines to gather insights from three startup founders.   Read More
Amadeus confirms acquisition of TravelClick for $1.52B
News / Technology
Amadeus confirms acquisition of TravelClick for $1.52B
By Jill Menze | August 10, 2018
As speculated last week, Amadeus is buying hotel technology provider TravelClick in a $1.52 billion deal. Read More
Handiscover 700K funding
News / Startups
Handiscover raises $700,000 to expand accessible accommodations platform
By Mitra Sorrells | August 10, 2018
Handiscover, a startup to help people find and book accessible hotel rooms and rental properties, has raised $700,000 in new funding.   Read More
CEO interview Cendyn Charles Deyo
Interview / Technology
In The Big Chair - Charles Deyo of Cendyn
By Mitra Sorrells | August 10, 2018
Cendyn provides integrated technology platforms to drive sales and marketing performance in the travel and hospitality industry. Based in Florida, Cendyn has offices around the United States and Canada... Read More
quote of the week 33
News / Distribution
QOTW: Something about doing business like - and with - locals
By PhocusWire | August 10, 2018
Quote from Max Starkov, president and CEO of HEBS Digital, in an article on PhocusWire this week. Read More
The most influential names in travel are coming - will you be there?
News / Technology
The most influential names in travel are coming - will you be there?
By PhocusWire | August 9, 2018
Join nearly 2,000 decision makers and C-level executives from global travel, tourism and hospitality companies at this year’s Phocuswright Conference, Nov. 13 to 15 in Los Angeles. Register now to save... Read More
booking holdings q2 earnings
News / Online
Booking Holdings closely monitoring paid channels as it builds direct strategy
By Linda Fox | August 9, 2018
Following the release of its Q2 financials, Booking Holdings says it's continuing its strategy of building its direct business as well as a wider travel offering. Read More
HRS rate filtering tool
News / Technology
HRS tool eliminates incorrect hotel rates in business booking channels
By Mitra Sorrells | August 9, 2018
Business travel management company HRS is preparing to launch a filtering tool to prevent incorrect hotel rates from appearing in booking systems used by business travelers.   Read More
Why offering local tours and activities is a huge revenue opportunity for hotels
Opinion / Distribution
Why offering local tours and activities is a huge revenue opportunity for hotels
By Max Starkov - HEBS Digital | August 9, 2018
Local tours and activities are a multibillion-dollar business, and hoteliers are uniquely positioned to offer experiences and work closely with fellow local business operators. Read More
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