Industry
Free Is a Four-Letter Word
In the heart of Rome, the Trevi Fountain, a marvel of Baroque architecture, has long been a symbol of free, accessible beauty. However, a proposal to charge a fee for visiting the iconic site signals a growing trend that's making it increasingly challenging for meeting and incentive planners to incorporate free travel experiences into their programs.
DOT Approves Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines Merger
The merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines has taken a major step forward, receiving crucial approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). As meeting and event planners gear up for upcoming events, the implications of this merger could offer both challenges and opportunities for travel logistics.
Hyatt Expands Lifestyle Hotel Portfolio
In a move that will significantly expand its presence in the lifestyle hospitality sector, Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the acquisition of Standard International and most of its brands.
Devil or Angel: How Social Responsibility Impacts Meeting Destinations
While location, cost, and amenities undoubtedly remain paramount in the minds of meeting planners, the tide is slowly turning. A company or destination's commitment to social responsibility is increasingly becoming a powerful differentiator in the competitive landscape of event hosting.
Going for the Gold
While your next corporate conference might not rival the Olympics in terms of sheer magnitude, the strategies employed by the organizers offer invaluable insights for event planners of all stripes.
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.
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.
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 […]
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.
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.
