Hoteliers: What's in store for 2025

As 2024 comes to a close, we take a look at what could be in the cards for the year ahead — and what will hopefully stay behind. We also dive into why the right audio system is crucial for your hotel, how to utilize fraud-prevention tools and this season's buzziest openings. Read on!

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Excuse me, how much? The global hospitality industry is expected to balloon to $4.99B in 2025. Here's what could be behind it.

New year, new you? Three tips for driving independent hotel success in 2025.

Now accepting reservations: From the beach to the slopes, here are the most anticipated hotel openings of Winter 2025.

Bringing dreams to life: In this episode, Nathan St Cyr and Michael Russell, hosts of The Hotel Investor Playbook podcast, sit down with architect and developer Zeke Freeman to discuss everything it takes to turn your hotel vision into a thriving reality.

To gain insight into some of the trends that may end up defining 2025, we turned to three leading hotel experts, each with a finger on the pulse of the ever-evolving landscape. Here, Andrew L. Benioff, founder and chairman of the Independent Lodging Congress; Steve Carran, co-host and head writer of the Modern Hotelier podcast; and Kimberly Walker, founder and creative director of Nomada Hotel Group, give us their thoughts.

What's a trend you hope to see take hold in 2025?

ALB: Catering to the ethical consumer traveler — i.e. focusing on sustainability practices, mission-oriented procurement and letting travelers know the efforts the hotel is taking towards these causes.

SC: Travelers increasingly want immersive experiences. We’ll hear more about skillcations (trips to learn or hone a new skill) and dark tourism (visiting places associated with death, tragedy or suffering), such as Gettysburg or the Stanley Hotel.

KW: I think more hotels will be offering opted-in enhancement options for guest stays. Things like breakfast in bed, in-room spa treatments, and cocktail kits. Especially in California where we had to remove the daily amenity fee and many of the perks that came with that fee.

Is there a trend would like to see go away?

ALB: “Invisible Service” and the use of technology as an excuse for a lack of true hospitality.

SC: Hidden pricing and unclear policies. Don’t add resort fees at the last minute, and be clear about pet policies — don’t advertise as "pet-friendly" if you only allow dogs.

KW: Overly technical and complicated in-room lighting.

What are some of the trends you hope to see in 2025? Hit reply to this email. We'd love to hear from you.

The power of idyllic soundscapes

Choosing the right audio system is crucial for hotels, as background music plays a strategic role in creating an ambiance that aligns with the brand and enhances the guest experience. Modern audio systems offer flexibility with customizable zones, automation features and mobile accessibility, enabling staff to easily manage sound levels and playlists while improving operational efficiency. Advanced systems also provide long-term value through software updates and future-proofing capabilities, ensuring a seamless and engaging auditory experience for guests. (Hotels)

A Mission Beach alternative to short-term rentals

The $10 million transformation of a neglected 1950s Mission Beach motel into The Boardwalk Hotel has created a boutique, community-focused alternative to short-term rentals in San Diego. Co-developers Daniel Kalenov and Adam Dailey incorporated amenities such as paddle boards, bikes and a Mexican-themed cantina to provide an over-the-top level of hospitality. Positioned between the ocean and San Diego Bay, the 18-room hotel is already inspiring the team to explore similar projects in San Diego’s underserved boutique hotel market. (San Diego Business Journal) 

How digital gratuities boost staff retention, pay

Digital tipping can boost hotel associates’ earnings by up to $375 weekly, while increasing employee retention and guest satisfaction, a report by Shiny found. The findings, drawn from data across 138 hotels and over 13,000 transactions, reveal a 15% rise in guest tipping behavior compared to 2023, with half of tips exceeding $10. A case study with Stonebridge Companies demonstrated that digital tipping platforms reduce turnover and improve satisfaction scores, offering actionable strategies like clear messaging and strategic placement to maximize gratuity opportunities. (Hotel Business)

How hotels can tackle chargebacks with tech

As credit card chargebacks continue to rise in the hospitality industry, hotels are experiencing disruptions to their cash flow and an increased workload for staff managing disputes. To mitigate these, experts recommend utilizing fraud prevention tools like Address Verification Service and 3D Secure, which safeguard transactions without disrupting guest convenience. Additionally, ensuring clear communication about policies, leveraging data analytics to identify chargeback patterns and reviewing third-party bookings for errors can help prevent disputes and protect both financial health and customer satisfaction. (Hotel Management)

Nashville’s Hermitage takes a holiday stroll

The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville, celebrated for its historic Beaux-Arts architecture, recently underwent a thoughtful restoration that honors its rich legacy with modern updates, including soft hues inspired by its original Carrara marble and refreshed public spaces. During the holidays, the design takes on a festive elegance, with a 15-foot tree adorned in gleaming ornaments, gold ribbons and magnolia-draped swags that highlight the Grand Lobby’s grandeur. Subtle touches, like dusty blues echoing the veranda’s painted sky and deep reds complementing the ballroom’s wood paneling, create a harmonious backdrop for seasonal gatherings. (Southern Living)

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