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The American Hotel and Lodging Association Foundation continues to do work on helping grow leaders within the industry. Anna Blue, President, of AHLA Foundation discusses the great opportunities the AHLA Foundation is providing in 2025.

Dina Belon, President of Staypineapple Hotels Inc. is here to talk about dynamic brand building leveraging the hospitality pineapple symbol. How is the company differentiating itself from the major hotel companies and what are the exciting things happening for them in 2025?

Last month I hosted a cool event (Anthony was a judge) for the Nevada Hotel and Lodging Association during their Tech Conference dubbed the Shark Pool, a hospitality innovation competition. So many great teams but only one could win. Today we have that winner, Rich Sloan of WAVR Technologies, to tell us how atmospheric water harvesting technology could revolutionize places like Las Vegas but transform communities throughout the globe. This is crazy cool!

For the first show of 2025 Glenn in hiding out in Reno as Craig, Dave and Suzanne are relieved to still be home for the post holiday recovery. Tonight we welcome hoteliers and podcasters Greg Fregoso and Tom Groebe.

We're kicking off 2025 with Daniel Lesser of LW Hospitality Advisors who shares his thoughts on the financial state of hospitality and where to make money in 2025.

In the final show of 2024, we welcome industry speaker Ryan Minton. Shame he couldn't figure out how to talk his way out of hanging with Glenn, Craig and Doctor Producer Suzanne.

In the final ESLA Icons & Experts of the year we're tackling an issue affecting every extended stay hotelier: Insurance! I'm joined by ESLA Chair and Founder, Doug Artusio, also CEO of Dellisart Hospitality.

We're joined by Peggy Roberts & Laura Betten of AON – Insurance experts shedding light on market trends and risk management.

Key Topics Covered:

• The rising cost of insurance: What's driving the increase?
• Post-COVID underwriting changes affecting extended stay properties.
• How to build trust and partnerships with insurance providers.
• The importance of tailored coverage and loss prevention strategies.
• Navigating state-specific regulations and multi-state challenges.
• Pro tips for mitigating risks like human trafficking and property liability.

Key takeaways include:

1. The Sophistication of Hotel Ownership: Hotel owners face increased complexities in managing franchise contracts, banking requirements, and insurance policies. This necessitates a strategic approach to compliance and coverage.
2. Proactive Insurance Strategies: Owners should adopt a forward-thinking approach to insurance by engaging with brokers early, leveraging industry data, and analyzing risks specific to property types and locations.
3. Three-Pronged Support: Effective hotel management relies on a triad of support from CPAs, legal advisors, and insurance brokers. Each plays a vital role in mitigating risks and ensuring compliance.
4. Data-Driven Risk Assessment: Insurance brokers like Aon use industry data to anticipate risks and tailor solutions. Predictable issues (e.g., fire sprinkler misuse or cooking accidents) and unforeseen events (e.g., vehicle crashes into buildings) require balanced, data-informed coverage.
5. Flexibility and Alternatives: Hotel owners dissatisfied with current insurance arrangements can seek reviews and alternative plans, even mid-term. Building trust with brokers involves detailed program evaluations before commitments.
6. Group Purchasing Power: Leveraging economies of scale through pooled arrangements or associations can significantly reduce costs and improve negotiating power with insurers. Options like captive insurance allow owners to retain premiums and build a collective rainy-day fund.
7. Creative and Custom Solutions: Owners should prioritize partnerships with brokers who listen, innovate, and offer tailored solutions rather than just annual policy renewals.
8. Regular Reviews and Reassessments: The importance of reevaluating all costs, including insurance, was emphasized, with advice to actively explore market options for potential savings and enhanced coverage.

🎙️ Don't miss this enlightening conversation!

Thanks to AON for supporting this video.

Thanks to Dellisart for sponsoring this video.

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Join us for a captivating conversation with Clark Hanrattie, Partner at HEI Hotels & Resorts, as we explore how creative thinking, bold investments, and a deep understanding of hotel operations are reshaping the hospitality industry.

🔑 Key Highlights:

The Liberty Hotel Story: Transforming a Boston jail into a luxury hotel and setting the tone for innovative hospitality.

The Renaissance Times Square: Reinventing a legendary property into a modern marvel with unmatched views and brand-defining upgrades.

Inside the Deal-Making Process: Discover the bold moves and sharp negotiations that led to landmark acquisitions.

A Unicorn in the Industry: What makes certain professionals stand out in hospitality.

HEI's Evolution: From private equity to a leading third-party operator, learn about the strategic shifts that defined HEI's success.

Maximizing Iconic Locations: How to leverage Times Square's magic for year-round revenue, especially during events like New Year's Eve.

Expanding Through Relationships: The company's growth from 38 hotels 12 years ago to 110 hotels today, achieving $2.6 billion in annual revenue.

Private Equity and Investment Expertise: In-depth understanding of private equity structures and real estate investment dynamics enables alignment with institutional investors.

🎙️ Follow No Vacancy for more amazing insights!

#HospitalityInnovation #HotelInvestments #LuxuryHotels #HospitalityLeadership #TimesSquare #CreativeHospitality #HotelIndustry #NewYearsEveHotels #BusinessStrategy #hotels #hotelnews

Santiago Leon, COO and Managing Partner of Spearhead Hospitality, is here to define what is a "Hospitality Underdog" and why Spearhead Hospitality prides itself on taking on projects no one else wants.