Sean O'Neill

Cuts to interest rates would inject much-needed momentum into hotel deals and development. It's time to dust off those "When Rates Fall, Hotels Call" t-shirts you've had in the closet.

Hotel chains are quietly planning to shift their distribution strategies, aiming to bypass traditional intermediaries and boost direct bookings from corporate travel buyers. But with billions at stake, expect fights from legacy players.

Marriott leads in the competition for the largest membership in a hotel loyalty program, with over 210 million members. But its rivals are hot on its heels.

The Standard is part of a category of hotels that Hyatt and all major groups covet. Hyatt's CEO has previously said adding luxury and lifestyle brands can create a “network effect,” driving loyalty program growth and engagement.

Just about every hotel brand is trying to target luxury, and Hilton’s no different. Its approach with this move is strengthening relationships with influential travel advisors.

Major hotel groups are playing Pokémon with their loyalty programs. Instead of collecting rare game cards, they're adding new sets of travelers to their databases. Gotta catch 'em all.

Sonder has recently struggled, having not been profitable since going public in a blank check deal in 2022. The heft of Marriott's distribution system will boost the company. Marriott will gain access to Sonder's units, many of which are roomy apartment-style lodging and in neighborhoods where it's hard to build hotels.

Business travel is nearly back – but with an asterisk. Road warriors aren't taking as many trips, longer stays are becoming the norm, and traveler health is a primary focus. So, for those hotels willing to pivot, there’s an opening to snag these lucrative guests.

A news report put the potential valuation at roughly $500 million, but that would mark a big jump from the value before the pandemic of just $170 million.

The U.S. business travel recovery has been uneven. New York City? Thriving. San Francisco? Not so much. But the hotel manager giant Highgate sees signs for optimism.