Hospitality Highlights
- Mint House expands with a new boutique property just two blocks from the White House in Washington, D.C.
- STR data reveals U.S. Hotel Occupancy Falls for the third straight month.
- Hilton New Orleans St. Charles Avenue Acquired by HRI Hospitality, with a historic renovation planned for 2026.
- Stonebridge and RMS announce major executive hires to drive strategy and global growth.
- Travel spending cools across the U.S. especially among lower-income and midscale travelers.
1. Hospitality Openings & Boutique Projects
Mint House Opens New Boutique Aparthotel in Washington, D.C.
Mint House, a leader in modern residential hospitality, has expanded its presence with the grand opening of 1010 Vermont in Washington, D.C. This marks the company's second opening in 2025, showcasing a blend of historic preservation and contemporary design.
Housed in a 1926 landmark building formerly known as The Denrike, the property offers 85 units from studios to two-bedroom apartments. Guests enjoy amenities like fully equipped kitchens, smart thermostats and a communal lounge with gaming and relaxation spaces.
Located just two blocks from the White House and the National Mall, the hotel immerses visitors in the city’s rich history. The renovation preserves the historic charm while providing modern comforts, emphasizing the unique architecture and heritage of the site.
- 85 units including studios and two-bedrooms
- In-room amenities: WiFi, smart thermostats, fully equipped kitchens
- Shared spaces: Fitness center, lounge, rentable meeting rooms
Additional properties, like Nashville's Mint House at The Reserve and New York's 70 Pine, reflect the company's commitment to historic preservation with modern accommodations. Future openings are planned throughout 2025, expanding Mint House’s footprint nationwide.
Raines Unveils The Lantern Hotel Columbia in South Carolina
Raines, a prominent hospitality leader, has announced the development of The Lantern Hotel Columbia, scheduled to open in Fall 2025. This boutique hotel repurposes Columbia’s historic firehouse to create a purpose-driven community landmark.
Located in Columbia's vibrant Vista neighborhood, the hotel will feature 59 keys including a signature restaurant, Ladder 13, designed by James Beard Award Nominee Kevin Johnson.
The property aims to foster inclusion by partnering with USC’s College of Hospitality and CarolinaLIFE, offering employment and training opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Transforming Columbia's historic fire station
- Location: Steps from University of South Carolina
- Features: 59 rooms, F&B program, social spaces
- Partnerships: USC, CarolinaLIFE
The hotel exemplifies community engagement with deep roots among the ownership team, many of whom are USC alumni. Developed by Raines Development, the property will shine as a part of their exclusive Woven lifestyle hotel collection, emphasizing empowerment and storytelling.
Anticipated opening is in Fall 2025 with a follow-up Lantern Rock Hill location slated for 2026.
The Mtn Scout Hotel Breaks Ground in Truckee as Marriott's Tribute Portfolio
Gray’s Crossing Hospitality has begun construction on The Mtn Scout, a 129-room Boutique Hotel in Northern California’s Lake Tahoe Basin. Scheduled to open in early 2028, the hotel will enhance regional hospitality offerings and integrate sustainable design with natural surroundings.
The project was announced during a ceremony attended by local officials, emphasizing its role as both an integral component of the Village at Gray’s Crossing and a community cornerstone. The development will feature a lobby restaurant, outdoor gathering spaces and a whiskey bar referencing the nearby historic railroad tunnel.
- 129 rooms
- Outdoor amenities: fire pits, courtyard hot tubs
- Onsite features: event hall, fitness center, valet gear storage
Design led by Andrew Goodwin Designs aims to reflect Truckee’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty, combining regionalism with contemporary architecture. The broader Village includes residences, green spaces and future developments, fostering a resort-style experience.
New Extended Stay Hotel Opens in Tampa
Extended Stay America has launched a new 122-room Hotel in Tampa, Florida, near major attractions like the Florida State Fairgrounds and Seminole Hard Rock Casino. The hotel was developed and is operated by affiliates of ESH Hospitality, Inc. and ESA Management, LLC.
This four-story property features fully equipped kitchens, complimentary Wi-Fi, a free breakfast, a fitness room and on-site laundry. It aims to meet the growing demand for extended stay lodging in the Tampa area, offering guests comfort and convenience.
- 122 rooms
- Four-story building
- Full kitchens and amenities
- Location: Near Coca-Cola, University of Tampa and more
Liz Uber, COO of ESA Management LLC, expressed enthusiasm about the opening, highlighting the hotel’s role in expanding the company’s footprint and providing high-quality accommodations for business travelers and tourists alike.
2. Industry & Market Trends
America Hits the Brakes on Travel
Recent data indicates a significant slowdown in U.S. travel activity, with fewer airline passengers, weakened hotel demand and declining consumer travel spending across all income groups. Luxury travel remains stable but budget and mid-range accommodations are feeling the impact, likely due to inflation fears and political uncertainty.
Economists warn that this shift could signal a broader economic cooling as travel often serves as an early indicator of consumer confidence. Key statistics show a 90-day decline in TSA-reported air travelers — the first since COVID-19's height.
Booking patterns reveal shorter stays and last-minute reservations complicating pricing strategies. Airline and hotel prices dropped seasonally with lower-income households reducing travel more sharply, while wealthier travelers continue to prioritize high-end experiences.
International tourism to the US also fell, with Canada experiencing a 25% decrease in May compared to last year. Industry leaders note a "trade-down" trend favoring closer destinations like road trips and camping.
- Passenger decline: Less air traffic over 90 days, first drop since pandemic peak
- Booking shifts: Shorter trips, last-minute reservations
- Price drops: Airline and Hotel rates decreased seasonally
- Lower-income impact: Sharpest spending declines among less affluent consumers
- International decrease: Canadian arrivals down 25%; declines from France, Germany
- Consumer trend: Preference for closer, more affordable getaways
- Industry outlook: Executives express caution amid ongoing economic and political uncertainties
Travel patterns now reflect broader economic concerns. Experts warn this could indicate a weaker consumer resilience after years of strong post-pandemic demand.
U.S. Hotel Occupancy Declines for Third Consecutive Month
Despite slight increases in average daily rates (ADR) and revenue per available room (RevPAR), U.S. hotel demand continues to weaken, with occupancy dropping in May for the third month in a row, according to STR data.
The May occupancy stood at 65.3%, a 0.7% decrease from last year, reflecting ongoing economic uncertainty impacting traveler behavior.
Key statistics:
- Occupancy rate: 65.3% (down 0.7% YoY)
- ADR: $162.72 (up 0.8%)
- RevPAR: $106.30 (up 0.1%)
- Forecast revision: 2025 and 2026 outlooks have been downgraded due to macroeconomic concerns and weak Q1 performance
- Regional highlights: New York City leads with 87.9% while New Orleans and Houston have the lowest occupancy at 60.1% and 61.4% respectively
Looking ahead June's occupancy appears stronger but booking delays may temper demand in July and August. Industry experts warn of ongoing challenges, prompting revised slower growth expectations for the near future.
3. Hotel Transactions & Renovations
HRI Hospitality Adds Hilton New Orleans St. Charles Avenue to Its Portfolio
HRI Hospitality, LLC has announced the acquisition of Hilton New Orleans St. Charles Avenue, a historic hotel with 252 rooms in the heart of the city. The Hotel, originally built in 1926 as the Louisiana Masonic Temple, combines heritage and modern amenities.
Located in the Central Business District, the property offers over 10,000 sq ft of flexible meeting space, pet-friendly accommodations and a 24-hour fitness center. It is near attractions like the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, passing directly in front of the Hotel.
In early 2026, a major repositioning and renovation will begin, led by HRI’s in-house team. The upgrade will include public areas, guest rooms, multiple new suites and a redesigned lobby bar, blending historic charm with contemporary design.
The hotel features a renowned Creole-influenced restaurant, Luke, created by Chef John Besh, offering a refined take on Southern and French cuisine.
- 252 rooms, including 24 suites and 32 executive rooms
- Over 10,000 sq ft meeting space, including restored ballrooms
- Extensive renovation planned for 2026
- Location near major city attractions
The hotel’s strategic location, historic significance and upcoming renovations aim to enhance guest experiences while honoring its storied past, positioning it as a prime hospitality asset in New Orleans.
4. Company Strategy, Management, & Talent
RMS Appoints Chetan Arjun as New CFO to Drive Global Growth
Melbourne-based RMS, a leading hospitality platform serving over 7,000 properties across 70 countries, has announced the appointment of Chetan Arjun as CFO to strengthen its executive team amidst expanding international operations.
Chetan brings over 20 years of financial expertise from roles at PwC, Coles Group, Crown Resorts and most recently Lux Group, where he served as Group CFO. His skills in strategic expansion, financial leadership and operational excellence will support RMS’s ambitions for sustainable growth.
CEO Adam Seskis highlighted Chetan’s strategic fit with RMS’s goals, emphasizing his role in aligning financial operations with the company’s growth ambitions. RMS continues to scale, backed by private equity investor Advent Partners, aiming to be the connected tech partner of choice in hospitality.
Stonebridge Appoints Adam Snow as Chief Strategy Officer
Stonebridge has announced the appointment of Adam Snow as its new Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer. Snow will lead strategic development initiatives, focusing on brand alignment, growth and property-level strategies.
In this multifaceted role, Snow aims to embed data-driven and market insights into property operations. CEO Rob Smith emphasized the importance of fostering a strategic culture at all levels to enhance asset performance and create value for owners.
Snow’s extensive experience aims to drive innovation within the company's expanding presence across the United States. His leadership is expected to foster a culture of strategic thinking directly at individual properties.
Dellisart LLC Secures Six New Hotel Management Contracts in Q2 2025
Dellisart LLC expanded its management portfolio by adding six full-service hotel contracts across multiple markets. These properties demonstrate Dellisart’s diverse asset management capabilities, spanning different segments and locations.
Owned by industry giants like Hilton, Marriott and Wyndham, Dellisart provides comprehensive operational support. Its proprietary platforms, Hotel Sales Max and Hotel Rev Max, help drive revenue, streamline management and optimize overall performance for hotel owners.
- Six new management contracts in Q2 2025
- Properties span multiple markets and segments
- Supported by private platforms for sales and revenue management
- Approved partners for Hilton, Marriott, Wyndham
Chairman Douglas Artusio highlighted the company's brand expertise and operational depth as key to delivering increased profitability. Dellisart's tools, technology and talent ensure properties are positioned for top-line growth and efficient daily operations, maximizing ROI for owners.
Rebel Hotel Company Launches Renegade Hotels
Rebel Hotel Company announced the launch of Renegade Hotels, a new focus-service division targeting a younger generation of travelers who desire authenticity, efficiency and style. The division aims to provide a personalized management approach while blending operational rigor with Rebel’s signature flair.
Fredrick will debut with the transitions of Fairfield Inn Clovis, Comfort Inn Clovis and the forthcoming Hyatt Place Clovis, reflecting an aggressive growth plan with at least three hotels within 30 days.
Rebel’s CEO, Brian Sparacino, emphasizes that few operators dare to innovate beyond the standard and that Renegade offers a performance-first, independent mindset.
- Focus division for a new era of travelers
- Initial hotels: Fairfield Inn, Comfort Inn, Hyatt Place
- Goals: Rapid expansion within first month
- Operating independently but under Rebel’s strategic umbrella
Designed to attract owners seeking a more flexible and results-driven alternative, Renegade continues Rebel’s success with a performance-oriented, creative strategy poised to reshape the boutique hotel segment.
5. Technology & Revenue Management
G6 Hospitality Reports Strong Revenue Growth in 2025
G6 Hospitality, parent of Motel 6 and Studio 6, announced impressive results from its Revenue Management Services (RMS) program. The program utilizes automation tools, daily competitive analysis and strategy calls, leading to 11% year-over-year revenue growth in Q1 2025.
Properties enrolled in RMS also achieved a 10% higher ADR compared to non-participants. This significant impact extended to digital channels, with web and app growth of 11.5% in Q1, driven by dynamic pricing and OTA strategies.
In April 2025, revenue-managed properties posted a 9% revenue increase for the month, outperforming non-managed hotels, which grew just 0.7%. The focus on data-driven strategies aims to further outpace market trends.
- 11% Revenue growth in Q1 2025
- 10% higher ADR for RMS properties
- Web/app growth of 11.5%
- ADR reached $78.24 compared to $66.68 for non-managed
CEO Sonal Sinha highlighted that the RMS program provides cutting-edge tools and strategic insights to help franchisees outperform market averages. This initiative complements the recent launch of the AI-powered My6 app, which has already contributed to a 14% increase in direct bookings.
6. Career & Leadership Insights
Rising Industry Talents Share Their Insights in Hospitality
Three emerging leaders — Dominic Ziebert, Tyler Pitman and Jacqueline Rencurrell — discuss their journey into the hospitality industry. From entry-level roles to strategic development, they highlight the importance of passion, adaptability and mentorship in their careers.
They emphasize the value of hands-on experience, building strong relationships and embracing technology for success. Ziebert notes that development combines passion for architecture and real estate with creating memorable guest experiences, supporting projects like Four Seasons Deer Valley and Puerto Rico.
Similarly, Pitman’s story reflects how diverse roles foster a solid foundation in operations — from front desk to management. Rencurrell stresses market analysis and risk assessment in real estate investments along with the importance of networking.
These young professionals offer practical advice for newcomers: stay flexible, seek mentorship and prioritize service quality.
- Dominic Ziebert: Supports projects in luxury ski and Caribbean markets.
- Tyler Pitman: Worked in various Hotel roles, now leads operations at Ark Hospitality.
- Jacqueline Rencurrell: Focuses on entitling properties and Hotel investments.
- Advice to newcomers: Be adaptable, ask questions and build relationships.
.png)
.png)