Why you’ll want to listen:

• Discover how Opal blends design, functionality, and local culture to elevate hospitality.

• Hear about expansion strategies in both eastern Canada and growing markets.

• Get inspired by Perry’s leadership, community-first approach, and commitment to operational excellence.

Key Topics Discussed

1. Historical Roots and Evolution

Tom shares the rich history of his family's foray into the hotel business, highlighting the milestones that have defined their growth.​

2. Independent vs. Branded Hotels

An exploration of the pros and cons of operating independent hotels versus joining established brands, including insights into brand recognition, operational autonomy, and guest expectations.​

3. Full-Service Hotel Dynamics

A deep dive into the components that constitute a full-service hotel, emphasizing the integration of amenities such as F&B outlets and entertainment venues to enhance guest experience.​

4. Food & Beverage (F&B) Strategies

Discussion on the pivotal role of F&B in driving revenue and guest satisfaction, along with winning approaches to concept design and service delivery.​

5. Entertainment Venues Integration

Insights into incorporating entertainment options within hotel premises to attract diverse clientele and create memorable experiences.​

6. Renovation Best Practices

Tom offers practical tips for successful hotel renovations, focusing on the importance of having a solid plan, keeping the trades accountable and balancing modern design trends with functional requirements.​

In this episode of The Hotel Buy Podcast, host Sylvia Occhiuzzi welcomes PJ Mercanti, CEO of Carmens Group. PJ shares insights on boutique hotel ownership, developing properties in a rising cost environment and how he and his family have successfully navigated the growth and evolution of a long-held family business.

Listeners will explore the appeal of boutique hotels in a competitive market, along with the significance of event venues as vital extensions of hotels. PJ also discusses the operation and redevelopment of the Hamilton Convention Centre, FirstOntario Centre and FirstOntario Concert Hall and what the company has learned through these major renovation projects.

Throughout the conversation, PJ reflects on Carmens Group’s strategies for growth and diversification, sharing successful projects and future endeavors. He offers valuable lessons and practical advice for aspiring hotel owners navigating the complexities of the industry.

Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with expert insights and actionable takeaways that will inspire anyone in the hospitality industry.

Welcome to the Hotel Buy Podcast! We’re thrilled to kick off the second season with a fantastic episode, featuring none other than Marc Staniloff, founder, president, and CEO of Superior Lodging Corp. With decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Marc has been a driving force behind one of Canada’s most successful hotel development and franchising companies.

In this episode, we dive deep into Marc’s journey, from his early days in the industry to leading Superior Lodging in establishing iconic brands and partnerships. We’ll uncover the secrets behind building a thriving hotel portfolio, navigating market challenges, and staying ahead in an ever-changing industry.

Get ready for invaluable insights, candid stories, and expert advice from one of the top minds in the hotel business. Let’s jump in and start Season 2 of the Hotel Buy Podcast!

On this episode of The Hotel Buy, we are joined by Reetu Gupta, Speaker, Advocate, Philanthropist, Co-Founder & Ambassadress for The Gupta Group. 

Reetu shares stories and insights about her extensive career working in hotel investment & operations, as well as the dynamics of working in a family business.

On this episode of The Hotel Buy, Sylvia Occhiuzzi is joined by Hasheel Lodhia and Hanisha Sharma, Directors and Owners of JM Hospitality Inc., where they discuss a variety of topics including the unique aspects of second generation hotel ownership.
 

Join us for this episode of The Hotel Buy with Tony Cohen, Partner and Executive Vice President of Crescent Hotels and Resort as well as President and CEO of Global Edge Investments.

Tune in to hear how third-party management companies fold into the business of hotel operations as well as Tony's perspective on where the opportunities are in hotel investment today.

Meet Bob Jackson, the CEO and a Board Director of Vintage Hotels (LHPL). Bob has been in this role since 2009, he brings a successful track record of more than 25 years of experience in corporate and executive leadership. He is responsible for the overall financial and operational performance of the business. Bob has been highly successful in expanding the size, scope and value of the company.
 

On this episode of The Hotel Buy, Bob Jackson of Vintage Hotels elaborates on amenities that are important to Vintage Hotels as well as general trends in the market.
 

Join Sylvia Occhiuzzi for the next episode of The Hotel Buy. We'll be chatting with Sarah Sklash and April Brown from the June Motel.

We're chatting about a variety of topics from acquisition to branding strategy and we'll hear all about the current renovation that they're doing at their Beaver Valley property.