Running a hotel in 2025 requires sharper strategy, a tighter handle on costs, and leaders who can adapt faster than the market shifts. Few people understand that better than Rob Smith, CEO of Stonebridge Companies, who oversees nearly 200 properties nationwide.

On #NoVacancyNews, Rob breaks down how he's thinking about margins, brand contribution, AI, leadership development, and how his newly hired Chief Strategy Officer is changing the way Stonebridge operators think about priorities.

Huge thanks to my friends at Actabl — Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit Actabl.com.

Key Insights:

💡 How Stonebridge uses strategic thinking at the property level 🏨 Why some assets win during flat markets — and why others don't 🤖 Where AI actually helps (and where it never should) 📉 Why margins tighten when operators chase savings in the wrong places 🏷️ How brand saturation affects real revenue contribution 🔍 What Rob watches closely when underwriting hotel takeovers 🔄 Why repeat guests matter more now than ever

Question for you: What's the smartest margin-improving move you've seen in the past year?