Category: Recent News

Online travel agents (OTAs) have been made the arch-enemy of hotel direct bookings – a narrative we’ve seen across the sector due to the volume of bookings and high commission costs they command. But if hotels can reframe their thinking, OTAs are a powerful and positive part of the Find, Book, and Grow strategy.

Spark by Hilton, the fastest launch-to-open brand in the history of Hilton (NYSE: HLT), has surpassed 100 open hotels, achieving the feat less than 18 months after welcoming its first property. With a robust pipeline of more than 230 hotels and many conversions currently under way domestically and internationally, the rapid growth and appeal of this category-disrupting brand demonstrates Hilton’s commitment to building a hotel brand for every guest and every stay occasion.

The much-anticipated Treehouse Hotel Manchester, part of SH Hotels & Resorts (soon to be Starwood Hotels), has confirmed its opening date, Wednesday 19th March 2025. This marks Treehouse Hotels’ second UK property following the successful launch of Treehouse Hotel London in 2019. Offering a playful and free-spirited experience, the hotel features 224 guest rooms, including nine suites and three accessible rooms. Treehouse Hotel Manchester provides a unique retreat for visitors seeking both comfort and an element of adventure. Guests can expect whimsical interiors, evoking the enchanting charm of a forest, blended with Treehouse’s signature ’perfectly imperfect’ design ethos. Alongside its cosy accommodations, Treehouse Hotel Manchester will offer an array of destination dining and drinking options celebrating some of the North West’s most celebrated culinary talents.

Radisson Collection Hotel, Berlin is now open, offering a new landmark in the heart of the vibrant Mitte district. With its historic location, world-class amenities, and the stunning “Living Tree” installation, this luxury-lifestyle hotel provides an exceptional experience for guests visiting one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Nestled within a lush two-hectare park just moments from the River Seine, Le Relais de La Malmaison, a member of Radisson Individuals, has opened its doors, offering a serene escape near Paris. Combining natural beauty with contemporary comfort, this elegant property delivers an unparalleled hospitality experience just 15 minutes from the heart of the French capital.

Catalonia Hotels acquires Hesperia Barcelona Del Mar from Meridia Capital, Explorer Investments acquires two hotels in Portugal’s Douro Valley, Britannia acquires Crowne Plaza Felbridge in the UK from MCAP Global Finance, Plaza Hotel Group acquires Ibis Budget Hamburg Altona from Union Investment, ANH Hausbesitz acquires former Ibis Styles Berlin City Ost.

The hospitality industry isn’t slowing down, and outdated PMS solutions are dragging hotels behind. Clunky, slow, and vulnerable to cyber threats, legacy systems can no longer keep up. If your property still relies on an aging PMS, here’s why 2025 is the year to upgrade—ranked from most to least urgent.

Delivering a memorable guest experience has always been the foundation of success in the hospitality industry. But how can hoteliers stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital era? With guest expectations shifting and technology advancing, leveraging innovative tools has become essential for creating effective, meaningful communication.

Hospitality has always been about creating unforgettable experiences, where every detail matters—from the warmth of a welcome to the comfort of a room. Today, those details increasingly include digital touchpoints that connect guests seamlessly to the services and spaces they enjoy.

Over 45 senior hospitality leaders came together in Dubai for the FHS World Advisory Board Meeting recently to discuss and shape the vision and agenda for the Future Hospitality Summit – FHS World, taking place in Dubai from 27-29 October 2025 at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai.