At the upcoming Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF), Alain Sebah, President of Golden Tulip Afrique Francophone & East Africa (GTAF), and Dupe Olusola, Managing Director and CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, will receive prestigious awards. Sebah will be presented with the Outstanding Contribution Award for his role in expanding GTAF across Africa, while Olusola will be recognized with the Leadership Award for her exceptional guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
Accor India has appointed Sachin Maheshwary as the General Manager for both Novotel Goa Candolim and Novotel Goa Resort & Spa. Maheshwary brings over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including a strong track record with the Novotel brand. He will oversee the operations of 270 keys across both properties.
The Athens Group, a prominent real estate development firm specializing in crafting upscale resorts, urban hotels, luxury residences, and recreational amenities, has recently welcomed Richard Holtzman as its Principal and Vice President of Hospitality. With over four decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Holtzman will oversee the company’s fundamental operations and asset management functions. He will also contribute to the expansion and oversight of Athens Group’s project portfolio and strategic alliances. Holtzman’s appointment underscores The Athens Group’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the hospitality sector.
The American Experience Foundation (AEF), Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington’s Educated Eats (RAMW), the Hotel Association of Washington, D.C.’s Washington Hospitality Foundation (HAWDC), and the Washington Area Concierge Association (WACA) collaborated for an inaugural event to recognize students and career professionals with foundation scholarships. These scholarships, totaling over $70,000, support hands-on learning programs and assist recipients in their educational and career pursuits. The event marked the first collaboration between these organizations, fostering industry cohesion and celebrating future hospitality leaders.
Loyalty programs are crucial for the travel and hospitality industries to attract and retain customers. With travel bookings surging and customers booking earlier, businesses must adapt their loyalty initiatives to meet evolving preferences and spending habits. This article highlights four key loyalty trends to help businesses optimize their loyalty programs and customer experience.
PBA Group of Companies (PBA) and Concord Hospitality are embarking on a transformative project that will revitalize the former Canadian Centre office building into an Element Hotel by Westin, offering 226 extended stay suites in the heart of Downtown Calgary. This conversion underscores the importance of repurposing buildings for sustainable urban renewal and aligns with Calgary’s goal of enhancing downtown residential and recreational spaces.
Despite the hospitality industry’s labor shortage, a study by Washington State University suggests that increased reliance on robots may not be the answer. The study found that employees’ fear of robots taking their jobs (robot-phobia) leads to increased job insecurity, stress, and intentions to leave. This impact is particularly pronounced among those who have worked with robotic technology. The study highlights the need for employers to carefully consider the introduction of robots and emphasize the complementary role of human workers to avoid a negative feedback loop that exacerbates the labor shortage.
Cygnett Hotels & Resorts outlined its ambitious growth strategy at its 7th annual GM Conclave, showcasing plans to open 15 new hotels with 1200 keys over the next year. The company emphasized innovation, cultural transformation, and digital advancements as key drivers for its expansion. Cygnett’s commitment to sustainability was highlighted through the launch of its Sustainable Plan 2025, focusing on eco-friendly practices. The conclave also celebrated the company’s outstanding performance and recognized its teams for excellence in guest services and leadership.
Grand Hyatt Mumbai is proud to announce the promotion of Chef Rakesh Kamble to Executive Sous Chef. With nearly two decades of dedication to culinary excellence and innovation at the hotel, Chef Kamble will continue to play a pivotal role in elevating the hotel’s culinary offerings.
IHG Hotels & Resorts emphasizes the importance of responsible business practices and calls for industry-wide collaboration through its ‘Journey to Tomorrow’ plan. The hospitality industry has a significant impact on the global economy and communities. IHG believes a collective effort is necessary to drive change and achieve a net positive impact.
