5-Star Weekly Briefing

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.We dive into a significant period of Australasian expansion as Minor Hotels leverages a record 2025 to debut the NH Collection in Sydney and Avani in Queenstown. The shift toward asset-light models intensifies, with The Ascott Limited transitioning into a global lodging powerhouse, while Hilton prepares for eight major brand debuts across APAC this year, including the luxury LXR brand on the Gold Coast.Investment activity remains robust with Radisson Hotel Group signing the Radisson RED Queenstown and IHG embarking on a landmark four-hotel partnership in Vietnam’s Vinhomes Green Paradise. We also examine the "perception problem" of AI-driven dynamic pricing and new data revealing that 25% of travellers now bypass traditional search engines for Generative AI tools. Finally, we look at the completion of InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach’s multi-million-dollar transformation.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector across Australia and South East Asia.The region is witnessing a period of immense strategic transformation. We lead with Veriu Group’s evolution into LiveStay, a unified "living sector" platform, alongside their groundbreaking dual-branded project in Adelaide. Meanwhile, IHG and The Ascott Limited are accelerating their footprints; IHG is targeting "right-sized" regional growth in Townsville and Darwin, while Ascott reports a record-breaking 55% increase in South East Asian signings.We also examine significant capital investments, including Travel + Leisure Co.’s refurbishment of Club Wyndham Mission Beach and IHG’s luxury beachfront signing in Kota Kinabalu. Finally, we look at the data driving the market, from Accor’s AFL-driven sell-out in Adelaide to South East Asia’s global lead in Generative AI adoption, as noted by Stanford’s latest research.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector this week.The Pacific and South East Asian landscape is witnessing a surge in high-stakes infrastructure and lifestyle-led growth. Highlighting this shift is IHG’s dual-track expansion with the landmark Crowne Plaza Geelong opening and the 2031 signing of Kimpton Kota Kinabalu. In Brisbane, Belmo Group has secured the heritage-listed Royal Albert Hotel, while Brisbane Airport prepares for a major dual-hotel tender to meet 2032 Olympic demand.Innovation remains at the forefront as Holiday Inn Suva debuts Fiji’s first self-service kiosks and Intrepid Travel pivots toward nature-based assets with the acquisition of Ooraminna Station. Finally, we examine the $1 billion venture capital influx into "AI-native" hospitality tech, signalling a structural shift in property management and guest engagement.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.In this episode, we delve into the high-end residential shift as Ennismore’s Mondrian Gold Coast unveils its ultra-exclusive Sky House, while Accor signals a massive 65% pipeline growth for its collection brands. We explore the strategic expansion of the Veriu Group in Canberra and IHG’s landmark entry into Melbourne's Carlton.On the investment front, Salter Brothers finalises a major AU$150 million luxury retreat portfolio, underscoring a pivot toward regional experiential tourism. We also analyse the "Adoption Era" of Agentic AI, with Marriott reporting a 22% RevPAR boost through autonomous pricing tools. Finally, we track a 75% surge in Australian transaction volumes, driven by a flight to quality from offshore capital.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Episode 70, proudly sponsored by VTech, examines a transformative period for the Pacific and South East Asia. We lead with significant brand debuts, including Hyatt’s entry into the Australian market with Andaz Gold Coast and Marriott’s launch of the Tribute Portfolio in Singapore. High-level investment remains robust, evidenced by Amora Hotels & Resorts’ $73 million South Australian expansion and a massive 4,500-key partnership between Marriott and Sun Group in Vietnam.Additionally, we break down the major equity reshuffle at Queen’s Wharf Brisbane and IHG’s strategic return to Manila. We also discuss Canary Technologies’ latest research, which signals a definitive shift from AI experimentation to active operational execution across the region. With PATA forecasting record-breaking visitor arrivals through 2028, the leadership focus remains firmly on scale and technological integration.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.The Pacific and South East Asian regions are witnessing a surge in strategic growth, headlined by Marriott International’s landmark 10-hotel agreement in Vietnam and 1834 Hotels’ new Sydney development hub. In Australia, the "lifestyle" luxury shift continues to gain momentum with major Q1 openings from Accor and IHG in Perth and Coogee Beach, while the Veriu Group and Punthill Apartments finalise significant capital reinvestment programmes. We also look at the institutional strength of the sector as South Australia secures the 2026 AHICE APAC conference, and the industry pivots toward "operational realism" in AI technology. From the acquisition of the Ibis Melbourne Glen Waverley to Sudima Hotels’ expansion into Tonga, leadership-driven activity remains robust across all key markets.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.We lead with a transformative wave of luxury and lifestyle debuts across Australia. Hilton is set to breathe new life into the Gold Coast’s iconic Imperial Hotel under its LXR brand, while Minor Hotels and Anantara signal a $3.8 billion vote of confidence in Perth. The "Conversion Era" has officially arrived, as Radisson Hotel Group and IHG’s Garner accelerate regional expansion by repurposing existing assets to bypass construction hurdles.In the investment space, the unification of Baillie Lodges and Tierra Hotels into the global brand Beckons marks a new chapter for ultra-luxury experiential travel. We also dive into the "Agentic Era" of hospitality tech, where Marriott and Accor are moving beyond chatbots to autonomous AI agents. Finally, we celebrate operational excellence with Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort’s national Gold win and Peppers Seaport Launceston being named Accor Pacific’s Hotel of the Year.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

The 2026 Ted’s Technology Summit in Sydney highlights a pivotal shift as the hospitality sector enters the agentic era of autonomous artificial intelligence. Industry leaders argue that traditional hotel brands must evolve into experience-led ecosystems that integrate digital tools to foster daily guest engagement rather than occasional stays. Expert panels and speakers emphasise that while AI and robotics will soon automate distribution, revenue management, and administrative tasks, these technologies should ultimately empower human staff to focus on genuine connection. Strategic success now requires seamlessly integrated technology stacks and a cultural shift where AI is viewed as a collaborative partner that removes operational friction. By adopting agile mindsets and pilot programs, operators can leverage data to drive profitability and hyper-personalisation while navigating the disruption of legacy business models. Ultimately, the sources suggest that the future of hospitality lies in balancing high-tech efficiency with the irreplaceable value of human empathy.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.We dive into the strategic evolution of Salter Brothers Hospitality as they pivot toward an owner-aligned management model with the launch of Ardour Hotels and Resorts. In Sydney, a landmark AUD$390 million transaction at Darling Harbour underscores robust institutional appetite, while CBRE reports record-breaking investment volumes driven by a sustained supply-demand gap.The briefing also covers Frasers Hospitality’s $140 million asset enhancement initiative and Amora’s heritage-led expansion in Melbourne. From Brookfield’s high-value acquisitions in New Zealand to Hilton’s latest leap into Generative AI digital concierges, we analyse the moves shaping the 2026 landscape. We also celebrate leadership excellence following the Accor Pacific Awards and track major executive shifts across Marriott, Hyatt, and Trilogy Hotels.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.We lead with a significant luxury surge across the Pacific, headlined by Marriott International bringing the iconic St. Regis brand to Queenstown and Hilton announcing the Australian debut of LXR Hotels & Resorts on the Gold Coast. These landmark signings, alongside Minor Hotels introducing Anantara to Perth’s $3.8 billion Burswood Point, signal a robust transition toward high-yield, ultra-luxury assets.In development news, Accor has finalised the $90 million Mercure Melbourne La Trobe Street, while Capella prepares its heritage-led Kyoto opening. We also examine new Colliers data forecasting Australian hotel transactions to exceed $3 billion this year, driven by aggressive ADR growth. Finally, we explore the launch of Canary Technologies' AI Agent Studio, a potential game-changer for regional operators managing rising labour costs.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.The Australian and South East Asian landscapes are witnessing a significant recalibration. We explore Accor’s final construction phase of the Mercure Melbourne La Trobe Street and InterContinental Sydney’s AU$120 million strategic transformation under Jennifer Brown. As Brisbane prepares for its infrastructure boom, TFE Hotels and CLLIX are aggressively expanding their footprints to capture high-yield demand.Investment remains robust with IHG Hotels & Resorts signing key deals for Holiday Inn Express in Western Australia and a luxury Hotel Indigo in Phuket. However, a new Colliers report warns of a supply "handbrake" due to soaring construction costs, shifting the focus toward asset value in existing CBD cores. We also celebrate leadership excellence with the Choice Hotels Gold Awards and key executive appointments at Minor Hotels and Lancemore. Finally, we examine the "integration gap" in hospitality tech and its impact on operational efficiency.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.A surge in annual earnings reports confirms a robust landscape for 2026. IHG, Wyndham, and Choice Hotels all posted record-breaking development pipelines, with a clear strategic pivot toward "asset-light" conversion brands and extended-stay segments. This global momentum is mirrored in our region; New Zealand hotels just recorded their strongest summer in two years, with Queenstown achieving a staggering NZD 371 RevPAR.In Australia, the rise of third-party management is accelerating. Trilogy Hotels has taken the reins at the heritage Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra, while also partnering with Deicorp and Marriott for Sydney’s first AC Hotel. Meanwhile, the Sunshine Coast is entering a pre-Olympic "Growth Phase" with The Calile Noosa commencing construction. From Accor’s pioneering ChatGPT integration to the launch of IHG’s Noted Collection, the focus remains on high-margin, design-led expansion across the Pacific.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s 5-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.We explore a significant shift in New Zealand as IHG and Pro-invest Group transition the Holiday Inn Express Queenstown into a premium voco property, prioritising high-value assets over new builds. Meanwhile, TFE Hotels debuts its Adina brand in Hobart, capitalising on Tasmania's record-breaking tourism via a strategic dual-branded site.Investment is surging, with Australian hotel transactions hitting $2.7 billion in 2025—an 80% increase—driven by offshore capital and a "rare arbitrage opportunity" where existing assets trade below replacement costs. We also cover Hilton’s $53 million Ipswich expansion and La Vie’s bold move into the Philippines.In tech, we examine how AI is transforming hotel managers from reactive "firefighters" into strategic leaders by unifying fragmented data into actionable guest sentiment. Finally, we celebrate key leadership appointments at Pan Pacific, Amora, and Orion Hotel Group.Stay informed and stay ahead in the hospitality industry.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. This week’s briefing is brought to you by VTech—the global leader in hospitality telecommunications, providing elegant, antibacterial guest room phones designed for the modern hotel environmentFrom major hotel openings and brand expansions to acquisitions, technology shifts, and standout market performance, the hospitality sector is heading into 2026 with strong momentum. Recent highlights include Ardour Hotels & Estates, MGallery Collection, Avani Hotels & Resorts, and Radisson Hotel Group expanding their footprints across Australia, New Zealand, and the Asia Pacific, while IHG Hotels & Resorts advances its tech strategy with Oracle OPERA Cloud.At the same time, strong market results reported by CoStar and long-term growth signals from global brands like Four Seasons. Combined with accelerating AI adoption and key leadership movements across Accor, Hilton, Mulpha International, and Alloggio Group, the industry continues to evolve with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.This week’s hospitality landscape highlights continued brand expansion, active investment and a growing focus on experience-led and data-driven operations. Major developments include Hotel Heron joining Curio Collection by Hilton, Radisson Individuals entering Melbourne with Canterbury International Hotel, and the relaunch of Emirates Wolgan Valley as a Ritz-Carlton Lodge. Investment momentum remains strong, with Gaw Capital advancing a boutique hotel project in Queenstown and ongoing acquisition activity in key Australian leisure and urban markets.From a market perspective, lifestyle brands such as Caption by Hyatt are gaining traction by blending local culture, flexible design and technology-enabled stays, while Marriott’s recognition as one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies reinforces the importance of people, culture and long-term brand trust. Leadership movements across Asia-Pacific reflect ongoing competition for talent, and tech discussions continue to centre on AI and data unification as the next phase of smarter growth—shifting hotels from reactive decision-making to predictive, guest-centric strategies.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.This industry report provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving hospitality landscape through 2026, highlighting a significant pivot toward luxury wellness and holistic guest experiences. Major global players like Minor Hotels and IHG are aggressively expanding their footprints, particularly across Australia and Greater China, with a focus on high-end developments and strategic acquisitions. The market is witnessing a shift in service philosophy, as brands like Accor move to integrate longgevity-focused wellness into everyday stays rather than treating it as a niche luxury. Investment activity remains robust in premium regional markets, evidenced by significant property deals in Queensland and New Zealand. Furthermore, the briefing examines how artificial intelligence is revolutionising the sector by transforming hotel websites into interactive digital endpoints and altering the competitive dynamics of online distribution. These updates are punctuated by several high-level executive appointments, signalling a period of refreshed leadership across the industry's most prominent organisations.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Hospitality across Asia-Pacific and Australia has started 2026 with strong momentum, led by premium openings and renewed investment confidence. TFE Hotels opened the $150 million Hannah St Hotel in Melbourne, Crystalbrook Collection advanced its first South Australian property in Adelaide, Ascott expanded its lyf brand locally, Frasers Hospitality launched a Luxury Collection hotel in Singapore, and Wyndham continued its growth across Malaysia.Confidence is further reflected in Blackstone’s planned $1.2 billion acquisition of Hamilton Island and Sydney’s record December performance, driven by major events and international travel. As occupancy remains high across Australia and New Zealand, the focus is shifting toward higher guest spend, evolving expectations around wellness and pet-first travel, and more deliberate use of AI to lift efficiency without compromising service.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.In Australia, Crowne Plaza Geelong has officially opened its 200-room hotel connected to the convention centre, boosting regional business travel, while TFE Hotels confirmed Adina Apartment Hotel Chermside will open in February 2026 as the largest hotel in Brisbane’s northern corridor. Sydney is preparing for the arrival of Waldorf Astoria Sydney in late 2026, marking Hilton’s first Waldorf Astoria in Australia, while the historic Ardour Milton Park is nearing completion of its luxury transformation.Across Asia, Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the global debut of Unscripted by Hyatt, with Wink Hotels joining the brand through a partnership with Indochina Kajima, expanding Hyatt’s Vietnam presence to ten hotels and more than 2,000 rooms. Meanwhile, IHG Hotels & Resorts has unveiled its largest new-build project in Japan — an 817-room, triple-branded development near Universal Studios Japan combining InterContinental, Kimpton, and Holiday Inn Resort, opening in 2029.Investment activity remains strong, led by Taiwan-backed Forest Endeavour, which acquired Novotel Surfers Paradise and Paradise Centre for AUD 370 million, while Quest Ipswich has changed hands following a recent refurbishment. Market trends point to a “supercharged” 2026, driven by foreign capital, rising construction costs, and a shift toward refurbishing existing assets. Brisbane leads the country in RevPAR growth, and Park Hyatt Sydney has earned a place on Condé Nast’s Gold List 2026.Finally, on the tech front, hotels are being reminded that traditional SEO is no longer enough — visibility in AI-driven search now depends on clear, current, and authoritative content optimised for Generative Engine Optimisation.

The pace of change across hospitality continues to accelerate. Major openings and refurbishments are reshaping key markets, from Pan Pacific’s PARKROYAL Serviced Suites Manila Bay, opening in 2027, to the launch of InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach — Australia’s only true luxury beachfront hotel. Melbourne remains a standout, with new arrivals including Hannah St Hotel in Southbank, lyf’s upcoming Elizabeth Street opening, and the refreshed Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane, all signalling strong confidence in boutique, lifestyle and serviced accommodation.Investment momentum is equally strong. Global groups including Radisson, The Lux Collective and Singapore Land Group are backing eco-conscious resorts, mixed-use precincts and year-round destinations across Asia Pacific. Strategic acquisitions in Singapore, New Zealand and Japan highlight a long-term view on hospitality-led developments, while rebrands such as Amora Riverwalk Melbourne’s move to a contemporary 4.5-star positioning show operators refining their brand strategies to meet evolving guest expectations.Beyond bricks and mortar, leadership moves, technology and community impact are shaping the industry’s future. Senior appointments across Hyatt, IHG, EVT and Millennium Hotels reinforce a focus on growth and operational excellence. At the same time, AI-driven search is changing how travellers discover hotels, pushing operators to think beyond traditional SEO. And moments like Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour’s charity abseil remind us that hospitality’s true value lies in creating meaningful experiences — for guests and communities alike.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. Spotlighting major moves from Accor, Marriott, Hyatt, IHG, Choice Hotels, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, and more.We explore new openings and transformations across the region, including Accor’s expanding lifestyle portfolio, Hyatt’s dramatic 19-month restoration of Park Hyatt Tokyo, IHG’s upcoming Vaagali Maldives – Vignette Collection, and Choice Hotels’ latest Ascend Collection addition with Gladius Parramatta. We also look at Wyndham’s global rollout of Canary Technologies’ AI Voice, along with other tech shifts redefining operations and guest experience.On the development front, we highlight significant milestones such as the approved Crowne Plaza Maroochydore, Reflections Holidays’ investment in regional NSW, and Intrepid Travel’s acquisition of Wild Bush Luxury lodges — expanding premium eco-tourism for Australia.We unpack key industry trends, including AI-driven transformation of PMS systems, 2026 hospitality predictions from Cayuga Hospitality Consultants, and new traveller behaviour revealed in Global Rescue’s survey, showing rapidly rising AI adoption among international travellers.From luxury resorts and wellness innovations to tech disruption and shifting demand patterns, this episode delivers a concise, high-value roundup of the stories influencing hospitality’s next chapter — and the brands leading the way.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.With EVT, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Hilton, Accor, and Pontiac Land Group unveiling significant new openings and developments. Standout launches include Elysium Noosa Resort, Legacy Mekong Autograph Collection, Metropole Bangkok (Tribute Portfolio), and the creation of The Lands by Capella in Sydney. On the investment front, Trilogy Hotels expanded into Melbourne with the new Ibis Styles Southbank. Industry trends were shaped by insights from The Leading Hotels of the World, revealing shifts in luxury leadership, while Skyscanner’s 2026 report shows Gen Z driving travel demand with tech-first behaviours. In tech news, housekeeping robots and Langham Hospitality Group’s new AI Toolkit signal rapid innovation in hotel operations. Plus, leadership moves at EVT Connect Hospitality and QT Hotels underscore the sector’s ongoing talent momentum.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Get ready for a powerhouse episode as we unpack the biggest hotel and hospitality headlines of the week — from major openings and brand expansions to bold investments, industry trends and standout leadership moves across the region. We’re diving into the landmark launch of Cabravale Club Resort and the 140-room Novotel Sydney Cabramatta, the upcoming Crowne Plaza Geelong opening backed by Plenary Group, and the debut of Avani Living Queen’s Wharf Residences in Brisbane as Minor Hotels accelerates global expansion. We also explore the rise of hybrid hospitality with the official launch of Drifter Byron Bay, plus groundbreaking investments including Trump International Hotel Maldives, developed by Dar Global and The Trump Organization, along with a major cross-border partnership between Centara Hotels & Resorts and NUO International.On the trends front, we look at Darwin Airport Resorts’ award-winning “airport resort” concept and the refreshed design experience at Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa. We celebrate big wins from the HM Awards, including the Adelaide Marriott, while also spotlighting Hilton being named the #1 World’s Best Workplace™ and #1 Best Workplace in Australia™ for 2025.We’ll also highlight the industry’s rising stars and leadership movements — including new appointments across Millennium Hotels & Resorts NZ, Urban Rest, Marriott International, and the full senior team now appointed for Radisson RED Auckland.If you want to stay ahead of what’s shaping hotel investment, operations, design, people, and brand strategy across APAC and beyond — this is the episode you don’t want to miss.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Highlights include the renewal of Grand Hotel & Casino Vanuatu, the launch of Western Sydney’s new Cabravale Club Resort, and the debut of InterContinental Halong Bay Resort by IHG Hotels & Resorts. We also touch on Accor’s strong year-end push with seven new hotel openings and Mandala Hotels & Resorts expanding with Mantra Hobart Airport.On the acquisitions front, TGE moves to acquire The Ritz-Carlton Perth, La Vie Hotels & Resorts takes on Lindeman Island, and Panache Hotel Group enters the Sydney market with The Sebel Chatswood.We also cover key industry themes — including sustainability leadership from Small Luxury Hotels of the World, award wins for Pan Pacific Perth and Ayers Rock Resort, and Japan’s record-breaking inbound tourism spend.A quick, insightful roundup of what’s happening across global hospitality right now.

This week’s 5 Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.We cover a wave of hotel openings, brand expansions, and investment momentum across the Asia Pacific. Marriott ends its Sonder partnership, unveils City Express by Marriott’s Japan debut, and progresses new signings from Lake Akan to the Gold Coast. Accor’s Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge adds luxury villas, while Choice Hotels advances major redevelopment in Geelong. Singapore sees strong activity with Aravest’s acquisition of Hotel Miramar ahead of its DoubleTree by Hilton transformation. Investor confidence remains high, with Hong Kong’s hotel transactions surging 106% year-on-year and APAC’s development pipeline hitting record levels. Fresh leadership moves at TFE Hotels, Hilton and EVT signal continued investment in talent. In tech, the latest research shows hotels shifting decisively toward Best-in-Class systems and preparing for “agentic search” — reshaping how guests find, compare, and book stays.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.We round up the biggest hospitality headlines across the Asia–Pacific region. Radisson Hotel Group debuts its first Park Inn by Radisson in Australia, while Accor expands its New Zealand footprint with TRIBE and JO&JOE Auckland. Adina Barrack Plaza Perth completes a $4 million upgrade, and Brisbane’s historic Breakfast Creek Hotel begins a $2.75 million transformation. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts partners with Ovolo Hotels to scale its boutique portfolio and rebrands Singapore’s Value Hotel Thomson as Days Inn by Wyndham Singapore Novena.Hilton strengthens its Southeast Asia pipeline with 17 new signings and prepares for the launch of DoubleTree by Hilton Singapore Robertson Quay, while JW Marriott opens in Tokyo and IHG Hotels & Resorts announces Hotel Indigo Bali Ubud. Major deals include YTL Hotels’ NZD 160 million acquisition of Hotel Indigo Auckland, Cross Hotels & Resorts joining South Korea’s Sono International, and InterContinental Singapore rebranding under Marriott International’s Luxury Collection   NRMA Parks and Resorts adds four Central Coast holiday parks, while MGM Resorts, Marriott International, and Sydney’s hotel sector all report strong performance. Finally, a new Enseo report underscores how reliable, personalised technology—like fast WiFi, smart controls, and casting-enabled TVs—has become key to guest loyalty and operational success.

In this week's 5 Star Weekly Briefing multiple major hotel chains, including IHG, Hyatt, TFE Hotels, and Accor, are highlighted for aggressive expansion, particularly across Australia and Asia-Pacific, with numerous new property openings scheduled between late 2025 and 2029. Financial data for IHG and Accor confirms steady global growth, strong pipeline expansion, and rising profitability driven by luxury and lifestyle brands. Furthermore, the text details significant real estate transactions in Asia-Pacific and notes that major sporting events in Australia contributed a $75 million boost to hotel revenues. And of course congratulations to the industry professionals commencing new roles across Australia and New Zealand.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. Swire Hotels unveils its new global brand, Upper House, uniting its award-winning properties in Hong Kong, Chengdu, and Shanghai with new openings in Shenzhen, Xi’an, Tokyo, and Bangkok — plus the debut of Upper House Residences Bangkok in 2030. COMO Hotels and Resorts celebrates the reopening of COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, while Sofitel Noosa transforms into Elysium Noosa Resort, managed by Accor’s MGallery Collection. New developments include Punthill Albury Apartment Hotel and InterContinental Halong Bay Resort, expanding the region’s premium and MICE offerings. Meanwhile, Hilton partners with Sun Group on five new Vietnamese hotels, Taveuni Palms Resort Fiji takes home top luxury awards, and both Hilton and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts launch fresh collection brands targeting new segments. We also unpack industry trends — from the rise of the “bleisure” traveller to Japan’s booming hotel market and Australia’s $1.3-trillion sports tourism opportunity — alongside new leadership moves across Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, TFE Hotels, Mondrian Gold Coast, and The Ritz-Carlton.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Highlights include RACV’s $27 million expansion in the Yarra Valley, Hyatt’s Caption by Hyatt Central Sydney debut, and IHG’s voco Gosford opening this December. Accor continues its growth with The Brighton Hotel Sydney – MGallery Collection and TRIBE Auckland Fort Street, while EVT begins work on the cinematic-inspired Florin Hotel in Sydney. In sustainability, Rumi on Louth expands its off-grid island retreat, and Cordelia’s The Brooklet redefines luxury wellness in Byron Bay. Choice Hotels introduces MainStay Suites to Australia’s extended-stay market, ATEC prepares for its Perth Meeting Place event, and the “bleisure” travel trend continues to reshape tourism. Internationally, Dusit Thani Bangkok earns a Michelin Key, and Baillie Lodges secures a spot in The World’s 50 Best Hotels extended list—cementing the Asia-Pacific’s growing influence in global hospitality.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.From the grand opening of The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort at Resorts World Sentosa by Marriott International, redefining sustainable luxury in Singapore, to Hilton celebrating its 9,000th hotel and accelerating expansion across APAC, India, and the Middle East. Hyatt Hotels Corporation brings its vibrant Caption by Hyatt brand to Tokyo, while Pan Pacific Hotels Group strengthens its Southeast Asia footprint with PARKROYAL Serviced Suites Hanoi. In Australia, COMO Hotels and Resorts announces a new St Kilda Road landmark, Accor achieves record occupancies during the NRL Grand Final, and Adina Hotels and ALH Hotels unveil bold new directions with design-led transformations and brand reinventions. Plus, discover how AI is quietly reshaping hotel operations, unlocking smarter automation, seamless guest journeys, and new levels of personalisation.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.The Asia-Pacific hospitality sector is buzzing with activity. Hilton’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio now exceeds 160 hotels, with openings in Hong Kong, Osaka, and Qingdao and major projects in Shanghai, Bangkok, and Bali. Trilogy Hotels has commenced management of Mercure Penrith in Western Sydney’s sports and entertainment precinct. Sydney welcomes its first MGallery property with The Brighton Hotel, while Darwin Airport Resorts undergoes a $41M transformation linking Novotel, Mercure, and ibis with new villas, suites, and a Californian-style Poolhouse Bar & Kitchen. Travel + Leisure Co. adds Hotel Bellinzona to Club Wyndham South Pacific, Radisson signs Atiara Ubud Bali, and Aman announces its fourth Singapore urban resort. Across the region, leaders at IHG, Mandarin Oriental, Hyatt, Soneva, and Pan Pacific are driving innovation and guest-centric growth in line with rising demand for luxury, lifestyle, and immersive hotel experiences.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Investment volumes have reached USD 12.1 billion year-to-date, supported by strong travel fundamentals, including a forecasted 9% rise in air travel for 2025. Investors are focusing on value-add assets in markets such as Japan, Korea, Australia, and Singapore, with ADR growth continuing to outpace inflation. Global Asset Solutions is expanding its regional portfolio, now managing a high-profile collection of luxury Marriott and Hyatt properties across the Maldives, Phuket, and Melbourne.Luxury expansion and urban development projects are moving forward at pace. IHG will grow its luxury footprint with the Regent Karuizawa onsen resort in Japan, opening in 2028, while the Park Hyatt Tokyo reopens this December following a major renovation. Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island has completed a three-month refurbishment, and large-scale projects in Australia include the $75 million Novotel Geelong expansion, a $180 million 5-star tourism precinct in North Lakes, and the redevelopment of Melbourne’s Waterside Hotel into a seven-level landmark. New models are also reshaping the landscape, from the launch of Drifter’s hotel-hostel hybrid in Australia to the rise of branded residences and hotel conversions into student housing and co-living.On the operational front, hoteliers are prioritising efficiency gains through targeted AI initiatives like predictive maintenance and automated housekeeping, which often deliver returns within two years. Meanwhile, the Northern Territory will form Tourism and Events NT in 2026 to better integrate events with tourism, and Choice Hotels Asia-Pacific has partnered with the NBL and NBL1, boosting its visibility and offering exclusive rates across Australia and New Zealand.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Hear about exciting new hotel openings, including IHG’s first dual-branded property in Melbourne, Hyatt’s first Caption by Hyatt in Sydney, and Hilton’s continued growth in luxury and lifestyle hotels across Asia.We also cover major acquisitions and investments, including Seibu Prince Hotels’ US$90 million acquisition of Ace Group International, creating a global portfolio of 94 hotels while preserving Ace’s creative identity.The episode dives into industry trends and market highlights, from award-winning campaigns at PARKROYAL Parramatta to New Zealand hotels achieving occupancy growth and sustainability recognition. We also examine hotel investment activity in Thailand and broader Asia Pacific, and reflect on Accor’s Olympic legacy in Sydney.Finally, we showcase people and tech in motion: key executive appointments across global hotel groups, innovations unveiled at NoVacancy Sydney 2025, and case studies like Kimpton Main Frankfurt’s implementation of SABA Hospitality’s Digital Compendium and Mobile Ordering, which have boosted operational efficiency, guest satisfaction, and staff productivity.

This week's 5-Star Hotel Briefing highlights significant expansion and investment within the global hospitality sector, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. New luxury hotels and resorts are being developed by major brands like Kerzner International, Mandarin Oriental, and Hyatt, with a focus on emerging markets and niche segments such as hot spring ryokans. Strategic partnerships and acquisitions are also driving growth, as seen with Hilton and YTL Hotels expanding their collaboration in Thailand and Japan, and Accor rebranding several Australian properties. Furthermore, the briefing touches upon evolving industry trends, including a growing demand for student accommodation in Australia and the increasing integration of smart technology in hotel rooms, alongside insights into hotel performance in key Australian cities and the rising importance of digital tipping for hotel staff.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. 🏨 TFE Hotels progresses with Adina Chermside Brisbane, Cross Hotels & Resorts signs the bold ELLE Resort & Beach Club in Bali, Veriu Group breaks ground on Punthill Shepparton, and Marriott Vacation Clubs expands in Bali. Co-living operator Weave Living also makes its Australian debut.🤝 Hyatt Hotels Corporation adds new projects in Hua Hin and Bangkok, IHG Hotels & Resorts grows voco in Bangkok and Phuket while launching its fast-rising Garner brand in Pattaya.🌿 Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay earns EarthCheck Bronze for sustainability, while Hilton is crowned Australia’s #1 Best Workplace and #1 in Asia.👤 Leadership updates across Marriott, Hyatt, Star Group, Minor Hotels, and 25hours Hotels.

This week’s 5 Star Weekly Briefing brings you the biggest moves shaping hospitality right now:✨ Global Openings & Refurbs – From Hyatt’s stunning return to Kuala Lumpur and Marriott debuting Ritz-Carlton Fiji, to Sofitel Noosa’s luxury refresh — discover how leading brands are elevating the guest experience.🏨 Strategic Acquisitions – Goldfields secures Sorrento Beach Resort and EVT expands with Pro-invest Hotels — hear how these deals are reshaping portfolios and market positioning.📊 Industry Trends – Accor’s record WA occupancy surge, lifestyle hotels quadrupling in APAC, and Savills forecasting a 180% branded residences boom. What does this mean for investors and hoteliers?👤 Leadership Moves – Key appointments across Accor, Marriott, and EVT — meet the people driving the next wave of growth.Don’t miss this roundup of the week’s most important developments in the Asia Pacific Region

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. We cover major moves across the hotel industry. EVT has launched EVT Connect Hospitality after acquiring Pro-invest Group’s management arm, while Hyatt is introducing The Unbound Collection to Thailand. Marriott continues its New Zealand expansion with JW Marriott Auckland, Moxy Hotels, and the upcoming Sheraton Christchurch. IHG grows its fast-rising voco Hotels brand with new projects in Bangkok and Phuket, and Mama Shelter makes its Asia debut in Singapore. Back home, RACV dominated the Victorian Accommodation Awards, and we wrap up with senior leadership appointments across Marriott, IHG, Minor Hotels, Mandarin Oriental, and more.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. This episode covers the latest in hotel openings, acquisitions, and industry trends. Alivio Hotel Cairns debuts after a major refurbishment, while IHG Hotels & Resorts surpasses 1 million rooms globally, with new projects in Melbourne and Ho Chi Minh City. Accor and Ennismore launch TRIBE and JO&JOE in Auckland, and RACV expands Inverloch Resort. EVT, Capstone Hotel Management, and Sheraton/Marriott are making waves with new management agreements across Australia and New Zealand.In acquisitions, KS Hotels & Resorts takes Park Hyatt Melbourne, Ichigo Hotel REIT adds Okinawa and Toyama properties, and Urban Rest expands in Melbourne CBD. Luxury developments include NOCTIS by Kamana in Queenstown.Industry trends highlight strong APAC hotel growth, tech adoption for guest experiences, and evolving RevPAR performance. Key executives are joining new roles.Listen for insights on brand growth, loyalty programs, and how AI and automation are shaping the future of hospitality.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Big names are making big moves in hospitality, Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corp. teams up with Marriott International to launch Moxy Hotels in the Philippines. Accor expands with new Novotel and Peppers properties, plus a $4M luxury upgrade ahead of Brisbane 2032. Club Med partners with Paradise Indonesia for a new North Sulawesi resort, while IHG Hotels & Resorts, Comiskey Group, and Minor Hotels unveil major developments across APAC. Strong results from Accor, Marriott International, and Choice Hotels International point to continued travel growth.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. In this episode, we unpack the latest in hotel developments, deals, and leadership moves across the region. EVT debuts compact room types at Atura Adelaide Airport, while Peppers Docklands Melbourne gets a bold makeover under Panache Hotel Group. Major acquisitions include new assets for Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Mandala Hotels, and Redhill Hospitality, alongside a REIT milestone from Japan’s Kasumigaseki Capital. We cover strong performance updates from Wyndham, inclusive tourism wins from Pan Pacific Hotels Group, and winter success for Langham Hospitality Group. Plus, key leadership appointments at IHG, Accor, St. Regis, Langham, and more round out a packed episode.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. Marriott International acquires tech-forward brand citizenM 🏨, while TFE Hotels gears up for its UK debut with new Adina properties 🇬🇧. Travel + Leisure Co. expands with the launch of Accor Vacation Club Asia Pacific 🌏 and unveils a luxe revamp of Club Wyndham Mission Beach 🌴. Dusit International debuts its ninth brand, Dusit Hotels, and Salter Brothers reimagine Milton Park as Ardour Milton Park Bowral 🛁. We also highlight 1834 Hotels taking over resorts on K’gari 🏝️, BIG4 reaching 300 parks 🛶, and Seibu Prince Hotels entering Vietnam 🇻🇳. The “coolcation” trend is heating up ❄️ with MGallery leading the charge, Traveloka lands in Australia 🇦🇺, and Langham Hotels completes its global Pink Run 🎀. On the tech front, Travel Outlook’s AI agent Annette 🤖 is redefining guest service.

In this week's 5 Star Weekly Briefing, there are several key trends, including new developments, strategic investments, and a notable shift towards upscale conversions. Frasers Hospitality, in collaboration with UK-based YOTEL, has launched YOTEL Tokyo Ginza, marking its first ground-up development and investment in Japan. In Australia, Cabra-Vale Diggers is unveiling plans for Novotel Sydney Cabramatta as a central feature of the Cabravale Club Resort, with Sam Fakih leading as Pre-Opening General Manager. Salter Brothers is investing over AU$10 million to transform the Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa into the flagship property for its new luxury brand, Ardour Hotels and Estates, reopening as Ardour Milton Park Bowral. IHG Hotels & Resorts is expanding its luxury and lifestyle portfolio with the upcoming Kimpton Bali Ubud in Indonesia and rebranding two existing properties in Japan to ANA Holiday Inn hotels through an agreement with FET SYSTEM INC. Meanwhile, Las Vegas Sands has broken ground on an $8 billion resort in Singapore. The trend of upscale conversions is prominent, with IHG Hotels & Resorts and Salter Brothers planning to relaunch several Crowne Plaza and InterContinental properties as Regent/InterContinental brands, a strategy also observed by Marriott, where conversions represented approximately 40% of its new signings in APAC in 2024.Leadership shifts and recognitions are also a key trend across the industry. Michael Johnson, former CEO of Accommodation Australia, was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his leadership. Jennifer Brown of InterContinental Sydney was named Executive of the Year, and Anthony Flowers from Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour received Chef of the Year at the Accommodation Australia NSW Awards. Significant leadership appointments include Emilie Couton as Chief Executive Officer of Accor Plus, and at Marriott International, Jen Mason will succeed Leeny Oberg as Chief Financial Officer, with Shawn Hill becoming Chief Development Officer upon Oberg's retirement. Other new General Manager roles include Dony Andrian at Crowne Plaza Sydney Burwood (IHG Hotels & Resorts), Dagmara Konieczna at Rydges Gold Coast Airport, Luke Roberts-Lalli at QT Newcastle, Michael Stamboulidis at QT Auckland, Jerry Feng at Imperium Group for its Luxury Collection, and Sunil Rawat at Hilton Adelaide. These movements underscore the dynamic nature of the industry's recovery and strategic growth.

🎙️This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.In this episode, we cover big moves from industry giants like Marriott International, Hilton, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Minor Hotels, Radisson Hotel Group, and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.Hear about exciting new openings—Courtyard by Marriott in Darwin, Fairmont Tokyo, and Radisson Don Mueang Bangkok—plus major rebrands and investments including Waldorf Astoria Bali, Six Senses Bangkok, and AC Hotels Gold Coast. We also explore strategic expansions in Japan by World Brands Collection, and the transformation of Brisbane’s Clear Mountain by Mandala Hotels.We discuss standout research from CBRE and JLL on luxury lodges and market dynamics across Fiji, Southeast Asia, and Australasia. And we unpack the latest on AI in hospitality, workplace wellbeing, and purpose-driven travel trends.Also featuring leadership changes across Accor, TFE Hotels, The Langham, La Vie Hotels and Resorts, and more.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. We cover a wave of new openings across Australia, including InterContinental Brisbane, Hyatt House South Melbourne, and a dual-branded IHG project in Melbourne’s Bourke Street Mall. Meriton makes its first move into Queensland’s management rights market, while Minor Hotels expands its Oaks portfolio with a resort in Thredbo. We also explore industry insights from Accor’s Pacific Leaders Conference and a new Marriott report showing a shift toward wellness-driven luxury travel. Plus, we celebrate Choice Hotels’ Tripadvisor wins and the boost Sydney hotels received from Vivid 2025.

This week's 5 Star Weekly Briefing highlights significant developments in the sector, including new hotel openings like the sustainability-focused 1 Hotel Melbourne and Paradox Sydney's Australian debut, alongside major refurbishments at properties such as QT Queenstown and W Brisbane. It details substantial acquisitions and investments, notably Star Entertainment Group's rescue package led by Bally's and Amora Group's purchase of Hilton Adelaide. The briefing also explores current industry trends, focusing on AI integration, cybersecurity, ethical AI, data management, and personalised loyalty programs, as discussed at HITEC Indianapolis. Finally, it notes the strong performance of luxury lodges in Australia and New Zealand, driven by high demand and investment, and announces key leadership appointments within various hotel groups.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Including Paradox Hotels’ debut in Sydney, the relaunch of Hotel Diana in Brisbane by Samdoo Corporation, and Minor Hotels’ alpine expansion with Oaks Lake Crackenback. We explore the surge in tourism-driven investment across Australia and New Zealand, with insights from Global Asset Solutions and WTTC projecting strong sector growth through 2028. From the Lion Hospitality Awards – standouts like QT Auckland, Craggy Range, and Peekaboo Eatery were recognised for excellence, sustainability, and innovation. And at HITEC 2025, AI stole the spotlight – with Levee sweeping the E20X pitch competition and startups like Bookboost, Ediphi, and Vella AI showing how tech is reshaping guest experience and operations. Plus, new appointments from Four Seasons, JLL, Imagine Hotels, and more across the region.

🎙️This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. Australia’s first Mondrian Gold Coast opens with oversized suites, private beach houses, and panoramic views 🌊, while W Brisbane unveils river-inspired suite upgrades blending bold design with luxe tech. In Canberra, Redhill Hospitality takes over Tall Trees Ainslie, promising soft refurbishments and elevated service, and in Perth, Residence on Langley Park repositions to meet long- and short-stay needs with flexible layouts and full amenities. We also cover Wyndham Hotels' powerful 🤖 AI rollout that’s cutting call times and boosting service efficiency , IHG’s voco reaching 100 hotels in just seven years with flexible conversion appeal, and Accor’s sustainability leadership and standout new properties like Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport and Wairakei Resort Taupō. Finally, we spotlight Mandarin Oriental’s wellness-first approach for Global Wellness Day, focused on reconnection, ritual and inner strength. A packed episode full of innovation, guest experience, and future-focused moves.

🎙️ This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. Hyatt expands with its new Unscripted brand and the launch of Hyatt House South Melbourne—marking its entry into Australia’s extended-stay market. Hilton celebrates a major milestone with its 1,000th luxury and lifestyle property, with more than 150 openings expected in 2025. 1834 Hotels grows its white-label footprint with 18 Elanor Group properties and a strong push on underutilised space and digital check-ins. La Vie unveils an $18M rebrand in Sydney, while Intrepid acquires boutique stays in Tasmania and Marrakech. In tech and trends, AI security and personalisation dominate headlines, while Marriott and Plantation Island Resort lead the charge on sustainability and community engagement.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.Hotel brands are expanding across the region with new concepts and renovations. Marriott has launched Series by Marriott in India, targeting the midscale–upscale market. Hilton is marking 50 years in Australasia with a $40 million upgrade to Hilton Sydney and new growth initiatives. New Zealand welcomes Edit Hotels & Resorts, offering digitally enabled, value-driven stays. IHG’s Holiday Inn Express introduces its tech-enhanced 5.0 model with 30 projects already signed. In WA, The Sebel The Vines unveils a $3 million redesign, while Rick Stein will open a flagship beachfront restaurant at the rebranded InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach. Meanwhile, Capella announces The Lands at Circular Quay, a major mixed-use development set to open in 2026.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector. From JW Marriott’s debut in New Zealand to Pan Pacific Perth’s $50M transformation, luxury and sustainability are defining the next era of travel. In Canberra, Crystalbrook Aurora and IHG’s Regent revival signal serious investment in upscale experiences. Meanwhile, Blackstone’s delay at Crown Melbourne raises questions about missed momentum in a competitive landscape.📊 Market insights show Melbourne and Adelaide leading post-pandemic hotel growth, while the Sunshine Coast’s tourism excellence gains state-wide acclaim. Rydges Melbourne shines as a top meeting hotel, and Novotel’s WWF partnership highlights the industry’s sustainability focus.💡 On the tech front, AI and digital compendiums are revolutionising operations, personalisation, and guest engagement. All eyes now turn to HITEC North America, where the latest in hospitality tech will be on display—joined by Brendon Granger and the GAIN team.Hospitality is evolving fast—these stories show who's adapting, who's leading, and what’s next.

This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sectorWe cover the debut of boutique and lifestyle hotels across Australia and New Zealand, including The George Glenelg, Hyde Melbourne Place, and Edit Hotels. We also highlight key acquisitions from Trilogy Hotels and Accor’s major deal with Bayview International. Learn how global events like AHICE and TRENZ 2025 are influencing tourism, and how AI—from operational tools to guest personalisation, is transforming hotel marketing and management. Plus, find out which hotel took the top spot in Tripadvisor’s 2025 awards and catch up on leadership moves across the sector.