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.

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
Terry Jones interview startups
News / Startups
Q&A: Terry Jones on the challenges of creating a successful travel startup
By Mitra Sorrells | August 8, 2018
Terry Jones has had a long history in travel, including working as a travel agent, 24 years at American Airlines, launching and serving as CEO of Travelocity, helping to found Kayak and - most recently... Read More
Startup Stage MüvTravel
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: MüvTravel uses AI to customize itineraries for independent travelers
By Mitra Sorrells | August 7, 2018
MüvTravel is an AI-powered platform to help independent travelers customize their entire trip, including transportation, accommodations and activities.     Read More
Airbnb for Work bookings triple, drive "significant" growth for Homes business
News / Online
Airbnb for Work bookings triple, drive "significant" growth for Homes business
By Jill Menze | August 6, 2018
Airbnb is reporting a sizable increase in bookings via its corporate travel platform - so much so that Airbnb for Work is now “one of the most significant growth drivers” for the company’s Homes sector. Read More
Research Spotlight: Changing attitudes of travelers with families
News / Online
Research Spotlight: Changing attitudes of travelers with families
By Jill Menze | August 6, 2018
The travel industry has invested hefty resources into understanding millennial traveler behavior, including where they go, who they go on trips with and how much they’re willing to spend. Read More
VIDEO: CitizenM on the unhappy marriage of tech and hotel companies
News / Distribution
VIDEO: CitizenM on the unhappy marriage of tech and hotel companies
By PhocusWire | August 6, 2018
Lauded for its fiercely independent style, both aesthetically and strategically, CitizenM was considered one of the go-to hotel brands for how things can be done differently. Read More
In The Big Chair - Layton Han of ADARA
Interview / Technology
In The Big Chair - Layton Han of ADARA
By Mitra Sorrells | August 3, 2018
Founded in 2009 ADARA analyzes data to help clients understand travelers’ behavior, patterns and trends to create more effective marketing and engagement strategies. The company has 15 offices across... Read More
RateGain dances away with acquisition of DHISCO
News / Technology
RateGain dances away with acquisition of DHISCO
By Kevin May | August 2, 2018
Hotel distribution service DHISCO is now part of the RateGain family following an acquisition of the company for an undisclosed fee. Read More
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