The Skift Global Forum in New York on September 17 to 19 will focus on various issues relevant to the hotel industry and the future of travel. The event will feature leaders from Marriott, Wyndham, and MGM Resorts discussing topics such as the future of hotel development growth and how hotels are using technology to sell more than rooms. Additionally, there will be discussions on whether U.S. officials and travel marketers are adequately prepared to host major international sports events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Summer Olympics in 2028.
One of the key themes of the Skift Global Forum is “Travel’s Great Renewal (or Reckoning),” focusing on how the travel industry is returning to pre-pandemic levels and whether any changes will be long-lasting. Questions surrounding the value of travel post-pandemic, consumer spending habits, and the impact on corporate travel will be addressed. The event will also explore trends such as blended trips and the future of different segments of the travel industry.
Hotel groups are prioritizing different sources of growth, including extended-stay, lifestyle, and boutique hotels, as well as luxury and midscale brands. Geographical expansion is also a key focus, with companies like Marriott investing in Latin America, China, and India. The growth of sports tourism and the readiness of the U.S. to host major sports events will also be discussed, with a particular focus on visa regulations, passport issuance, sports diplomacy, and hotel loyalty programs.
Transparency is emphasized as an important operating principle for both companies and destinations within the travel industry. The event will explore how companies can demonstrate transparency through their engagement with local communities, commitments to sustainability, treatment of employees, and inclusivity. Examples of companies that prioritize transparency, such as Fogo Island Inn in Canada, will be highlighted, and discussions will focus on best practices for maintaining transparency in the industry.
Overall, the Skift Global Forum will provide insights into the future of the hotel industry, trends in travel, and key issues facing the sector. Industry leaders will share their perspectives on topics such as future growth opportunities, the impact of technology on hotel sales, the readiness of the U.S. to host major sports events, and the importance of transparency in the industry. Attendees can expect to gain valuable knowledge and insights that will help shape the future of the travel industry.
