Franchise debate, Barceló expansion and surprises
Dear Insider,
The image of the carrot in front of the donkey's nose hits a sore spot in franchise deals: Key money is not cash for self-service, but a loan that must be repaid. In addition, hoteliers are considering shorter contract terms and no longer believe unconditionally in the distribution power of franchisors and their brands. "We have to become more flexible, think in new ways," said investor representative Martin Schaller from Union Investment, calling on everyone to do the same. Hyatt, Maritim, Louvre and Borealis threw themselves passionately into the discussion at the Expo Real conference four weeks ago. Susanne Stauss reports.
Raúl Gonzalez, CEO EMEA of the Spanish Barceló Group, is also putting a lot of energy into planning the European expansion. It will be clear and sprinkled with opportunities. It's now finally getting going, with the Central European countries first, with Leisure and a billion-heavy budget for the next three years alone. As regards the various contracts, he has his own view: Before he signs bad contracts, he prefers to buy real estate. I met him last week in Paris.
The Amsterdam architect Sanne van der Burgh, who we have already introduced as a lively lateral thinker, has now presented "CarbonSpace" to Sarah Douag - a new carbon calculator that hoteliers and architects can use right from the start of the planning process. It is an open-source tool, free of charge and easy to use. ... More
Magazine
Africa is experiencing the fastest growth in tourism worldwide. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is now jumping on this bandwagon. It has announced billions in investments in the African travel and hospitality sector. The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance is also getting involved.
Expo Real
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Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing tourism – and offers enormous opportunities for hotels that are prepared to use data intelligently. 125 hoteliers, experts and industry representatives needed to talk.
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Marketplace
From Berlin to Copenhagen in just four hours: the EU wants to enable faster rail travel between major cities by 2040 and make short-haul flights less attractive. Will rail companies play along?
Shortly before the start of the World Climate Conference in Brazil, attention is turning to effective climate protection measures. Politicians and businesses are working on climate-neutral energies and the circular economy, but conscious behaviour in everyday life can also make a big difference.
When holidaymakers leave, landlords of holiday homes are often left with more than just memories – especially in the kitchen. What happens to the food that is left behind?
72% of consumers use digital platforms and apps to promote sustainability. Second-hand platforms, comparison portals and smart home technologies are particularly popular.
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Hotels Tomorrow, edition 2
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HospitalityInside Think Tank, edition 9 on 11-12 May 2026 in Brussels
