Hotelier Weekly
February 15, 2024
Champion PTAC, LLC
AAHOA News
The Return of Mr. Wonderful!
  
AAHOA Members, we have exciting news!
 
Kevin O’Leary, the renowned entrepreneur, author, and star of the hit show “Shark Tank,” is making a grand return to the 2024 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show in Orlando, FL!
 
Known for his razor-sharp business acumen and invaluable investment wisdom, Kevin is set to ignite the stage with his keynote speech. See the flyer below for more information, and ensure you register now so you don’t miss out on Mr. Wonderful’s return to the AAHOACON main stage!
AAHOACON24 Lifetime Member Registration Deadline is TOMORROW!
  
ALERT!
 
The deadline for complimentary registration for AAHOA Lifetime Members for AAHOACON24 ends TOMORROW, Friday, February 16.
 
Three reasons to ensure you don't miss the deadline:
 
🌐 Industry's Premier Gathering: Immerse yourself in hospitality's leading event, uniting the industry's best and brightest for unrivaled networking, learning, and connection.
 
🏨 Largest AAHOA Member Assembly: Be part of the largest gathering of AAHOA Members, the powerhouse behind 60% of U.S. hotels. This is where industry trends are set, alliances are forged, and success stories unfold.
 
💼 Expansive Trade Show Floor: Explore the largest trade show floor in hospitality, where innovation meets opportunity. Discover the latest trends, connect with cutting-edge solutions, and elevate your business.
 
Register by February 16, attend the convention, and qualify for a refund within 30 days post-event. Your hospitality journey awaits – don't miss this unparalleled experience!
Last Chance to Enter: AAHOACON24 Sweepstakes Deadline is TOMORROW!
  
🎉 TOMORROW, Friday, February 16, is the last opportunity to register for AAHOA's unbeatable Register-to-Win Contest!
 
Join the excitement for the 2024 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show and lock in your chance to win one of five amazing prizes!
 
Here's what's up for grabs:
  1. 🏨 Three nights of standard hotel accommodation at AAHOACON24
  2. 🛫 Round-trip coach airfare for one to Orlando
  3. 📸 One VIP photo pass with AAHOACON24 keynote speaker
  4. 💳 $400 Visa gift card
  5. 💳 $200 Visa gift card
This is your FINAL chance to register for a shot to win! Register by tomorrow to be automatically entered. For full rules and details, visit AAHOACON.com/sweepstakes.
HEADS UP: Voter Eligibility Deadline Ends Monday, February 19!
  
AAHOA Members, an important deadline is approaching!
 
In order to be eligible to vote in the 2024 AAHOA Elections, you must have:
  • become a Lifetime Member on or before Sunday, December 31, 2023, OR
  • pay your annual membership for 2024 on or before Monday, February 19, 2024, AND
  • have paid your annual membership dues in at least two of the preceding three years.
Ensure you're eligible to vote in the 2024 AAHOA Elections, taking place on Thursday, April 4, at AAHOACON24 in Orlando, FL. Make your voice heard!
NEW: AAHOACON24 Education Schedule Now Available!
  
We're thrilled to announce our extensive lineup of 40+ education sessions designed to inspire, educate, and empower hospitality professionals nationwide.
  • AAHOACON gives you an unparalleled opportunity to delve into a diverse range of topics, from cutting-edge technology trends to operations and much more.
  • Our curated sessions feature industry experts and thought leaders sharing invaluable insights, fostering meaningful discussions, and providing actionable takeaways to help you thrive in today's dynamic landscape.
  • Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting your journey, AAHOACON24 promises an enriching experience that will elevate your expertise and propel your success.
Chart your course for success as you embark on a transformative journey of learning, growth, and innovation!
Have You Booked Your Hotel Room Yet? Book Before March 8!
  
AAHOA Members, please take note of this extremely important information regarding AAHOACON24 hotel accommodations and travel.
 
Registration is required prior to reserving a room. AAHOACON24 will be cross-checking housing lists against registered attendees. Your registration confirmation will also contain the direct links to secure accommodations for AAHOACON24. Room reservations are subject to cancellation, if not registered for AAHOACON24 by March 1, 2024.
 
As association and hospitality professionals, we recognize the importance of fulfilling our obligations to our hotel partners. We appreciate your support in booking within the AAHOACON24 hotel room block.  
  • Hotel Reservations
    • A non-refundable deposit equal to one night's stay is required to hold each individual reservation at the time of booking. Credit cards used to prepay the room deposit will be charged immediately. Should you choose to cancel your reservation entirely, the following will apply:
      • If canceled prior to March 8, Liable for the one-night non-refundable deposit
      • If canceled after March 8, Fully liable for the entire reservation
BEWARE OF UNAUTHORIZED AAHOACON24 HOTEL SOLICITATIONS
Please be advised that third-party companies not affiliated with AAHOA are marketing false room rates via email and are not legitimate.
 
AAHOACON24 has three contracted hotels within the group block. These are the Rosen Centre (HQ), Hyatt Orlando, and Hilton Orlando. Other hotels and resellers are not endorsed by or affiliated with the AAHOA Convention & Trade Show and should be considered a scam.It is uncertain if the rooms reserved using such unauthorized links will be honored at the advertised rate.
 
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to info@aahoa.com.
 
Amerifab International, Inc.
Ajmera Law Group
AAHOA Advocacy in Action
Your Advocacy Matters: AAHOA Applauds the Introduction of the LIONS Act, Which Would Increase SBA Loan Limits
On Tuesday, February 13, 2024, AAHOA Chairman Bharat Patel released the following letter:
 
AAHOA Members: 
As I’m sure you are aware, AAHOA has long advocated for increases to SBA loan limits. We’re pleased to report this week Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) announced the introduction of the "Loans In Our Neighborhoods (LIONS) Act," a bill designed to amend the Small Business Act by increasing the maximum gross loan amount for section 7(a) loans, from $5M to $10M, which would provide greater financial support to small businesses.
 
This legislation is now being referred to the appropriate House Committee thanks to the leadership of Rep. Thanedar, but we also have you to thank; it is because of your persistence, your advocacy, and your connecting with lawmakers to showcase the need for this legislation that we are where we are today.
 
We want to take a moment to thank AAHOA Florida Regional Director Chetan (Chris) Patel, who is Chair of the AAHOA SBA Ad Hoc Committee. Together with the committee, he has worked tirelessly to advocate for change.
 
While there is a long road ahead, this is the first of many necessary steps to help hoteliers obtain access to capital, allowing them to operate and thrive in a challenging economy. We applaud your efforts in advocating for this important legislation, and we’re grateful to announce that AAHOA is making big things happen for you in Washington.
 
Why it Matters
  • Currently, Small Business Administration(SBA) 7(a) and 504 loans are currently capped at $5M, which was last set in 2010.
  • For AAHOA Members, over the past decade and especially in a post-pandemic world, the costs of doing business, constructing hotels, and purchasing properties have skyrocketed.
  • In 2024, the value of hotel properties is significantly higher than the current loan limits, leaving substantial collateral for higher loan amounts.
  • AAHOA has been at the forefront of this issue for quite some time, and we applaud the introduction of the LIONS Act, by Congressman Thanedar.
  • If passed into law, increasing SBA loan limits from $5M to $10M has the potential to constitute some of the most impactful legislative measures affecting hoteliers in the foreseeable future.
SPOTS ARE FILLING UP! Join the Waitlist for AAHOA's Spring National Advocacy Conference!
  
As the premier voice of hotel owners, AAHOA seeks to partner with elected officials in Washington to identify viable solutions to the biggest challenges facing the industry.
  • AAHOA’s Spring and Fall National Advocacy Conferences provide the opportunity for America’s hoteliers to meet with and cultivate relationships with hundreds of elected officials.
  • On Tuesday, March 12, and Wednesday, March 13, join AAHOA leaders and other AAHOA Members at the 2024 Spring National Advocacy Conference in Washington, D.C.
  • If you would like a chance to attend the 2024 Spring National Advocacy Conference, the waitlist form is officially open for the remaining spots - please know that it's first come, first served, and spots are filling up quickly.
Fill out the form today to have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one discussions with your elected representatives on the issues that matter most to hoteliers. We are almost at capacity, so act now!
NEW: Friday Legislative Update Calls. Hear What's Happening in Your Region!
Featured Content
Mark Your Calendars! Upcoming Deadlines for AAHOACON24
Lifetime Members need to register by February 16 to qualify for complimentary registration.
 
Register for AAHOACON24 by February 16 for a chance to win one of 5 prizes, including a $400 Visa gift card and round trip coach airfare for one to Orlando. Winners will be announced Tuesday, February 20.
 
The last chance to renew your annual membership as a part of AAHOA criteria to be eligible to vote in AAHOA Elections is February 19.
 
The last chance to cancel your event registration or secure the best rate with early-bird pricing is March 3.
 
The participation and talent of our dynamic membership is vital to AAHOA's success. If you want to make a difference for AAHOA Members and the hospitality community, we encourage you to apply to serve as an AAHOA Ambassador.
HerOwnership
ANNOUNCING AAHOACON24 HerOwnership Luncheon Speaker: Rashmi Airan
  
Dive into the six global truths of Dharma Leadership with Rashmi Airan as she leads the HerOwnership session & luncheon at AAHOACON24, brought to you by G6.
 
The luncheon, titled “Global Truths to Intentional Awareness,” will be held from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3.
 
Effective leadership has taken on a new dimension in today’s evolving modern business and tech landscape, emphasizing introspection and service to others.

Dharma Leadership, the core of this transformation, champions conscious and courageous leadership, shifting the focus to personal leadership through intentional awareness, all of which is imperative in today’s ever-changing world of AI.

Rashmi Airan, a celebrated motivational speaker, TEDx presenter, and culture consultant, introduces the six global truths of Dharma Leadership, demonstrating how they collectively create intentional awareness, which leads to connection and culture.
American Pride Bank
Charter Communications Operating, LLC
Member Testimonial
"Right when I walked through the doors of the building, I realized how grand in scale the conference is. This entire auditorium, Convention Center, is massive, it's very beautiful. All of the production that goes into this, whether it's the snacks, you know, the different goodie bags you get, I walked the exhibitor floor a short while ago, everything is extremely grand in size, and I don't think I expected that. There's clearly been a huge push, I think from the organizational level as well as from the various business owners that help support this convention to make this a great one and it's coming through already on day one."

- Ankit Bhakta, Hotelier & Attorney, on AAHOACON23

AAHOA Education
#AAHOACON24 Spotlight | Independent Insights: The Freedoms and Challenges of Non-Franchised Hotel Ownership and Building a Successful Management Model
Do you already own an independent hotel? Have you ever thought about it? 
 
We are offering at #AAHOACON24, at no additional cost, an in-depth workshop and post-event networking reception on Tuesday, April 2, from 1:30 to 5 p.m. 
  • We will explore what it takes to be your own brand and be fully responsible and accountable for all facets of your business. No different than the chief executive or operating officer of any other company, you probably represent investors/shareholders.
  • This workshop, using actual case studies, will show you what it takes to run your business by the same principles as any other successful corporate business leader. Whether you’re building, buying, or transitioning to your brand, don’t miss this special event planned by AAHOA’s Independent Hoteliers for AAHOA’s Independent Hoteliers.
 AGENDA
  • 1:30 p.m. Event Welcome
  • 1:45 p.m. Being the Chief Operating Officer: It's a Mindset, Not a Title
    • Setting goals and charting a course
  • 2:00 p.m. Marketing and Sales Case Study
    • Who are you targeting? Why should your concept appeal to him?
    • Branding 101: Making your concept come to life
    • Marketing differentiating your brand from competitors
    • Through what channels and with what messaging will you create awareness and interest for your brand?
    • Through pricing and promotion, where can you gain the most market share to achieve your financial goals?
    • Best sales practices and successfully proven strategies
  • 2:45 p.m. Break
  • 3:00 p.m. Operations Case Study
    • Yes, you have greater flexibility in tailoring services, decor, and operations to create unique, personalized guest experiences. That’s the good news and the challenge. Learn why!
      Standardizing operating procedures. Yes, you need to!
  • 3:30 p.m. People/Culture, HR, and Legal Case Study
    • Your people have to be better than their people. Period.
    • Creating a place where people want to work
    • Avoiding common HR and legal pitfalls
  • 4:00 p.m. Finance Case Study
    • Overcoming lender risk reluctance due to perceptions of brand recognition and the absence of operational support
    • Learning how to create impactful proformas, financials, and projections to show them you mean business
    • Just as in Shark Tank, your pitch matters!
  • 4:30 p.m. Networking Reception
Hotel Equities
Red Roof Inn
Featured Club Blue Member
HBO
  
HBO, the oldest and most award-winning premium channel in the U.S., is offering AAHOA Members the chance to earn money back. Members get a rebate of $9 per room (5-year contract) or $7 per room (3-or 4-year contract) when they add or renew HBO at their properties. Click here today to complete the rebate form and get started.
Featured Member Benefit
INFINITI HR
  
INFINITI HR is a Master Aggregator, The Professional Employer Organization for Hospitality Management© throughout all 50 states. INFINITI HR is recognized for the exceptional ability to support employer standards, mitigate employer risk and liability, while providing superior economies of scale and purchasing power for world-class, mid-range, and economy hotel properties of all sizes. For more information, visit our website, then contact Daniel Mormino (daniel.mormino@infinitihr.com) today to get started.
Featured Platinum/Silver Partner
SONESTA
  
At Sonesta International Hotels, we open our doors and welcome the world. We offer service with a passion, loyalty with a purpose, and a commitment to the many faces—new and familiar—that stay with us. The human side of hospitality is the core of our culture. Our mission is to wow every guest, team member, partner and community in which we operate by delivering quality, value and amazing hospitality.
Red Lion Hotel Corp - Sonesta
Industry News
Addressing Future Travel Trends with AI
With an expanding set of digital tools at their disposal, forward-thinking hoteliers are harnessing the power of AI to better predict bookings, travel trends, and guest spending.
(Source: HospitalityNet)
The Tech Lifecycle in Hospitality
With technology evolving at a blistering pace, understanding when to upgrade and when to sit tight can play a vital role in a property’s long-term struggle or success.
(Source: Medium)
How Changes at the Big Hotel Brands May Impact Owners
Despite the ongoing transitions at brands across the industry, including the still-possible Wyndham-Choice merger, experts don’t expect day-to-day life at the branded properties to change much – immediately, at least.
(Source: Hospitality Investor)
HUNTER
Naylor Association Solutions
Today's Hotelier

FEBRUARY ISSUE

The February 2024 issue of Today's Hotelier magazine is out now! This month we take a special look at the industry from the perspective of the young professional, including the importance of seeking mentorship, AAHOA's new HYPE Ownership initiative, a deep dive on the 2024 advocacy priorities, and much more.

Featured Content

Join thousands of AAHOA Members, brand CEOs, and industry professionals by subscribing to our magazine. Receive every digital issue of Today’s Hotelier as soon as it’s released to the public. Click here to subscribe.
In the Market
U.S. RevPAR +3.9% y/y Last Week. Super Bowl in Vegas Drives Strong Independent Results, Less So For Brands
  
Truist Securities reports, “Overall U.S. RevPAR was +3.9% y/y for the week ending 2/10/2024, per STR, above the prior week's result of +1.7 y/y% and above the trailing 10-week average of +1.7%. Last week was a bifurcated story for U.S. hotels. The Super Bowl in Las Vegas was a tailwind with LV RevPAR of +139.9% y/y for the week. To our understanding the major casinos are reported as independent hotels by STR and consequently we are not surprised that non-branded Independents' RevPAR was +17.3% last week. Conversely, overall chain scale results (less Super Bowl benefit) were down last week with Luxury -2% and Midscale/Economy -6% to -7%. Upscale RevPAR: -0.6% y/y; Upper Midscale RevPAR: -2.5% y/y.”
For more, read the full report here.