News to Know

Small Hotels, Big Advantage: AI Evens the Playing Field
SOURCE: HOTEL DIVE, 12/1

When it comes to technology, independent hospitality brands often feel they are competing against a stacked deck. Large, national brands simply outgun them with their teams of data analysts and enterprise-level artificial intelligence and revenue management platforms.

As a result, independent properties leave as much as 30% or more of their revenue on the table while trying to keep pace. Some estimates put more than 90% of independent stays, for example, still pricing their rooms manually and relying on outdated rules and gut instincts.

Industry Spotlight

Strategic Meetings Management
Future-Proof Your Career: Master Strategic Meetings Management

The meetings and events industry is booming — projected to reach $407 billion globally by 2035 (up from the $136.5B in 2025). With job growth outpacing the average and thousands of new roles expected worldwide, now is the time to strengthen your skillset.

That’s why GBTA Academy is proud to introduce our first-ever fully on-demand education program for business travel professionals: Strategic Meetings Management.

For the first time, you can access GBTA’s reputable training anytime, anywhere — with the flexibility to choose the full program package or focus on individual lessons that fit your needs.