Hotel Analyst Podcast

Everyone in investment is adapting to the new normal of inflation, and debt that’s more expensive, and harder to find. India, as it becomes the world’s most populous country, looks an increasingly interesting market for both domestic hotel groups and international brands. And market newcomers Soho House, Sonder and Selina display contrasting roadmaps to profitability.

The Ascott shows everyone how serviced apartments are done - as the big US groups line up to launch new apartment brands. Hyatt's acquisition pace shows no signs of slowing up, as it buys an umbrella brand. And as Keith Barr departs IHG, will it finally move its presence, and its listing, to the US?

It's been a strong results season for the listed hotel groups, so what are they going to do to move the needle from here on? We muse on Whitbread and its expansion into Germany; Marriott and Hilton, both deciding to launch new, economy extended stay brands as they move downmarket; and chew over stellar results from Wyndham and Accor, both enjoying an uplift from a strong snapback in Asia.

Investors pile into luxury and lifestyle hotels - and we look to LVMH for further brand inspiration, while speculating on Accor’s future, too. Integrated resorts - complete with a casino - look to be moving forward both in Europe, and in Japan too, but pushing them to delivery is hard work. And Spain is enjoying an influx as the international brands take over hotels that were previously independently owned. The move is accelerating…

Who's winning the distribution game, as international travel opens up once more. Simple answer, Google - but what else is going on? Pubs with rooms get their act together, they're more boutique than budget accommodation these days. And the UK government makes clear the direction they want to head as they clarify regulation of short lets.

It’s getting harder, and more expensive, to borrow funds for hotel investment - and that’s no bad thing, we argue. Germany has seen its hotel market come back, good news for operators including Motel One and Deutsche Hospitality; but will DH remain in the ownership of Chinese group H World, or is the moment approaching for a sale? And can hotels be part of the revival of the UK’s ailing high streets? Travelodge is making a strong pitch to help out.

Real estate investment values have been dropping, notably across retail and offices, as hotels are holding strong. Is the glass half empty, or half full? The sustainability debate - and where the hotel sector may face significant threats in the future. And Asian hotel groups finally get to see an uptick in business, as China eases open once more. The rest of the world will benefit, too, as the Chinese snap back into global travel.

Accor launches a fresh push into the expanding branded residences market; Soho House picks up its old name as it looks to pick up profitability too; and student accommodation providers continue to enjoy a demographic boost

Flexible office providers look to hotel-style franchising to accelerate their growth. But more importantly, will hybrid working provide opportunities for hotels? Marriott makes changes at the top - and those changes make it clear that it’s all about growth and brands. And Reits discover that big is beautiful, as well as providing a buffer of safety in uncertain times as debt markets tighten.

How Saudi Arabia is planning to outdo Dubai, with its megaprojects that will turn the kingdom into a post-oil tourism destination. Why vertical integration is working so well for Anglo-Irish group Dalata, and trans-European group PPHE. Plus how airlines, airports and air traffic control are letting the side down, when it comes to reinstating international long haul travel. The hotel rooms are waiting!