With the recent GBTA endorsement regarding 2021 Hotel RFP season many travel buyers are left to question how they should manage their processes.  Although we respect those involved in that decision, we do not necessarily agree with GBTA’s stance and are fully prepared to manage our clients 2021 hotel programs.

It’s the high-profile wedding of the year. Marriott International, Inc. and Starwood Hotels & Resorts tied the knot in late September. And whether you prefer one, the other, or neither, this is a merger with major repercussions in the industry. Let’s take a quick look at how this new hotel dynasty is going to affect you and your travelers.

The Benefit of Travel Management
In a Word: Savings.

The proof is in the pricing!

The economy seems to be breathing a little easier, at least for the moment. That means business travel is back in a big way. If you want proof, look at the hotel occupancy rate (HOR) and average daily rate (ADR). According to STR Global, ADR is steadily rising in all four global regions. In the Americas, the July ADR almost hit $125, which was up 5.8% YOY. This is mirrored by Europe’s 8% increase to $133.24, EMEA’s 5.3% increase to $159.10, and APAC’s subtler 1.1% increase to $105.12. PricewaterhouseCooper’s 2015 Hospitality Directions Report, as summarized by Business Travel News, estimates that the year’s ADR will level out at about $120.79, which is up 5% from last year.