Industry

Industry Association News

Associations: The Unsung Heroes Powering America’s Economy

In a landmark study, the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) has unveiled the most comprehensive data to date on the economic contributions of associations across the United States.

Industry Planner Resources

Southwest Airlines Overhauls Customer Experience

In a landmark shift for the airline industry, Southwest Airlines Co. (SWA) today announced a series of transformative initiatives aimed at elevating the customer experience, boosting financial performance, and driving shareholder value. The Dallas-based carrier, known for its open-seating policy, will introduce assigned seats and premium seating options in 2025, as well as launch redeye flights starting in February 2025.

Industry Planner Resources

Delta’s Response to Global Tech Outage Under Fire

U.S. Department of Transportation opens probe into the airline’s handling of flight cancellations A software glitch earlier this month plunged the world into technological chaos, impacting flights, financial firms, news outlets, hospitals, businesses, and government agencies. In the aftermath, Delta Air Lines (DL) finds itself under scrutiny as the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) launches […]

Experts

All Our Eggs In One Basket

The recent global software glitch that disrupted businesses and service around the world highlights several critical concerns about our increasing reliance on technology, especially in the travel sector.

Industry Planner Resources

Maritz Acquires Convention Data Services

St. Louis-based Maritz, a prominent player in the meetings and events management sector, has solidified its position with the acquisition of Convention Data Services (CDS) from Freeman. The deal, finalized on July 1st, brings together two industry veterans with a shared dedication to the evolving events landscape.

Experts

Airing of Grievances

As 2023 numbers reveal, flying has become an increasingly frustrating experience for passengers, with complaints filed with the U.S. Transportation Department soaring to nearly 97,000 – the highest since the pandemic chaos of 2020.

Experts

No Vacancy

Our featured story this week is about how when Taylor Swift's Era's Tour comes into a town, the army of Swifties that descends on the metropolis can make it tough for meeting and event groups. But that's not the only disruption planners should monitor when selecting a destination.

Industry Hotel & Resort Companies

Marriott Steps Off the Gas

Marriott International, the world's largest hotel chain, has received approval from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for its comprehensive plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The company's targets, both in the near and long term, align with the latest climate science and aim to significantly lessen Marriott's environmental impact.

Industry Stats

Americas Buck Global Trend as Hotel Construction Slows

The global hotel development pipeline is showing signs of cooling, with most regions experiencing a decline in new projects compared to last year, according to data from CoStar, a leading real estate data provider. The Americas, however, stands out as the lone bright spot, with construction activity increasing across all stages of development.

Industry Stats

U.S. Hotels Cut Growth Outlook as Inflation Squeezes Budgets

The U.S. hotel industry is facing a less rosy outlook as hotel operators are facing a squeeze on both sides. Rising labor costs are putting pressure on profit margins, while inflation is dampening demand.