SPECIAL REPORT |
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THIS YEAR SHOULD BE BETTER |
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– MICHAEL BELLISARIO, |
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MANAGING DIRECTOR, BAIRD |
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EQUITY RESEARCH
Cuculic’ s optimism is shared by Jolyon Bulley, CEO, Americas, IHG Hotels & Resorts.“ This past year certainly had its challenges,” he said.“ While we don’ t publicly share specific guidance updates, our confidence in hospitality’ s fundamentals and longterm growth drivers gives us optimism for the new year.”
There is continued optimism on the pure luxury side of the hotel ledger. And why not? Luxury hotels had a banner year as affluent travelers saw their stock portfolios rise and wealth increase, giving them no reason to eschew travel, especially at high-end hotels, like at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, where COO Amanda Hyndman sees encouraging dynamics shaping the year ahead.“ Leisure demand remains robust, particularly in destinations where guests can slow down, reconnect and really
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Hilton San Francisco Union Square sold toward the end of 2025 after going into receivership two years prior.
OUR CONFIDENCE IN HOSPITALITY’ S FUNDAMENTALS AND LONG-TERM GROWTH DRIVERS GIVES US OPTIMISM FOR THE NEW YEAR
– JOLYON BULLEY, CEO,
AMERICAS, IHG HOTELS &
RESORTS
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experience the essence of the destination.”
Mandarin Oriental is on track to double its portfolio within the decade, said Hyndman, supported by strong owner demand and rising interest in branded residences.
Cory Chambers, chief commercial officer for thirdparty hotel operator Remington Hospitality, believes there will be some hangover carrying into 2026, including flattish occupancy and continued margin pressure, but visibility should improve as group pace strengthens, he said.“ We expect steadier demand and an improved operating environment by mid-year.” Inbound international travel suffered in 2025 due to a combination of factors, such as stricter visa rules,
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travel bans and White House rhetoric, which conspired to create a less-welcoming U. S. perception. According to the U. S. Travel Association,
LEISURE DEMAND REMAINS ROBUST
– AMANDA HYNDMAN, COO,
MANDARIN ORIENTAL HOTEL
GROUP
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8 hotelsmag. com Jan / Feb 2026 |