Strategies to Grow RevPOR in 2026 | “Meet in the Lobby” from Avendra International

In this inaugural "Mailbag" episode of Meet in the Lobby, hosts Dorien Murphy and Melissa McCormack dive into the interweb universe to answer your burning questions about the future of hospitality.From the challenges of flat occupancy forecasts to the creative potential of mocktails, this episode is packed with actionable insights for hotel operators and hospitality enthusiasts alike. Dorien and Melissa share personal anecdotes—including a snowstorm battle involving a dustpan—while exploring how small, thoughtful touches can lead to significant revenue growth.Inside this episode, we discuss:Driving Revenue in 2026: Strategies to increase revenue per occupied room when occupancy is flat, focusing on high-impact wellness investments like sound machines and blackout curtains.The "Spa Minibar" Concept: Why in-room retail items like $50 bath bombs and facial kits are the next big opportunity for busy travelers.Sophisticated Zero-Proof Programs: Moving beyond "juice and Sprite" to create elegant, profitable, and creative non-alcoholic drink experiences that cater to Gen Z and wellness-conscious guests.The Intersection of Tech and Service: How to use mobile ordering and pre-arrival tools to personalize the guest stay without losing the "human touch."25 Years of Avendra: Reflections on the power of relationships and the diverse expertise that drives success in the hospitality procurement ecosystem.Featured Speakers:Dorien Murphy, Executive Producer & Co-host at Avendra InternationalMelissa McCormack, Executive Producer & Co-host at Avendra InternationalHave a question for a future episode?Send a DM to Avendra’s LinkedIn page with your question, and you might hear it addressed on the show!Connect with us: Visit www.avendra.com to learn about our procurement services.Follow Avendra International on LinkedIn for the latest hospitality news and trends.