LOS ANGELES—NEWH, Inc., The Global Hospitality Network, is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 2027 Structures of Hospitality Excellence (SOHE) Award & Scholarship Program. Now in its third year, the SOHE program is dedicated to recognizing exceptional construction excellence and investing in the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Nominations for both the SOHE Award and the SOHE Scholarships are now open and will be accepted through October 1, 2026. The award and scholarships will be presented on the main stage at ALIS DESIGN+ by Northstar on January 28, 2027. About the SOHE Award This award honors companies...

NEW YORK—In recognition of World Oceans Day, Beyond Green, a global community of bold leaders advancing sustainable travel, highlighted the meaningful action being taken across its portfolio. Beyond Green member properties globally are committed to protecting the world’s oceans through meaningful coral reef conservation initiatives. Often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea,” coral reefs support approximately 25 percent of all marine life while covering less than 1 percent of the ocean—making them among the most vital yet vulnerable ecosystems on the planet. Increasingly threatened by climate change, coral bleaching, pollution, overfishing, and coastal development, these ecosystems are under...

PENSACOLA BEACH, FLA.—Innisfree Hotels has broken ground on two projects that reflect the company’s long-standing belief that a thriving hospitality business should create lasting benefits for the communities it serves. The groundbreaking ceremonies this month marked the start of construction on the future Hampton Inn by Hilton Pensacola Beach and the new home of the Hive Arts Academy in Pensacola. With the anticipated 2028 opening of the hotel and the Hive Arts Academy opening next summer, both projects represent complementary investments in Pensacola’s future. While the Hampton Inn by Hilton will expand the region’s tourism economy, create jobs, and welcome more visitors, the Hive Arts...

PARIS—Two years into its ocean commitment and international partnership with WWF France, Novotel is driving tangible progress across its global network of more than 600 hotels, advancing operational change, marine conservation, sustainable food practices, and ocean awareness around the world. Ahead of World Ocean Day (June 8), Novotel released its second Ocean Impact Report, transparently sharing the progress, challenges, and measurable impact achieved over the past year as the brand continues to advance long-term action for ocean preservation and support marine conservation projects around the world. Launched in 2024, Novotel’s partnership with WWF France was created to support the longevity of the world’s oceans...

NEW YORK—The Open Wing Alliance (OWA), a global coalition of 82 organizations working to end the abuse of chickens worldwide, applauds Best Western Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s largest hotel brands, for purchasing cage-free egg credits, marking a landmark step toward fulfilling its global 100 percent cage-free egg commitment. Last October, the OWA paused its global campaign against Best Western after the company reported significant progress toward its global 100 percent cage-free commitment and pledged to purchase cage-free egg credits. The announcement marks the fulfillment of that pledge. “Best Western continues to back up its global 100 percent cage-free egg commitment...

FAIRFAX, VA.—As summer travel increases, higher guest turnover increases the likelihood of bed bugs being introduced into hotels and lodging facilities. During Bed Bug Awareness Week last month, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) reminded facility managers that no property is immune. A recent survey conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of the NPMA found that 44 percent of Americans would leave their hotel or rental property if they found bed bugs (e.g., on the premises, in a room), and 39 percent would avoid visiting a business if they knew it had a recent bed bug issue. “Bed bug issues can have a serious impact not only on...

JAPAN—There was a fascinating hotel brand launch that occurred just after Earth Day, courtesy of none other than Adrian Zecha, founder of Aman. Even though this latest rural hotspot is only 24 villas, it’s part of a half-century trend that explains the huge boom in farm hospitality, nature-driven ultraluxury resorts and other growth categories. Azuma Farm Koiwai is the first outpost for the Azuma brand nestled in the Japanese countryside. It’s advertised as a return to farm life, completing the agriluxury craze with uber-minimalist design, hikes, horseback riding and other traditional experiences, all for rates well north of $1,000. The driver...

BUFFALO, N.Y.—Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts Inc., a subsidiary of Delaware North Companies Inc., unveiled Waybound, a purposefully-designed premium alternative lodging brand. The new brand debuted this month with Waybound Yosemite, located near the south entrance of Yosemite National Park in Fish Camp, Calif. The Waybound brand features separate premium cabins called The Havens—modern and thoughtfully designed retreats that blend elevated comfort with seamless access to one of the world’s most renowned destinations. The Havens serve as a contemporary basecamp for exploration and reflection. Each two-bedroom cabin features spacious interiors with large picture windows, front porches and back patios that bring...

MIAMI, FLA.—Registration is officially open for The Hospitality Show, taking place November 2 to 4, 2026 at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami Beach, Fla. Produced by Questex and the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), The Hospitality Show brings together hotel owners, operators, management companies, franchisees, and hospitality leaders for three days focused on operating hotels more efficiently and profitably. “The Hospitality Show is the only event bringing together the entire hotel ecosystem with a dedicated focus on the business of operating hotels,” said Rosanna Maietta, President & CEO, AHLA. “At a time of rapid change across hospitality, this...

NATIONAL REPORT—EV charging started as a parking amenity. Today, it is becoming part of the guest experience itself. EV adoption continues to accelerate and represented nearly 10 percent of new U.S. vehicle sales in 2025. Hotels located in business corridors, near airports, and in destination markets increasingly see EV drivers arriving with charging expectations as part of their stay experience. Whether guests are dining at a restaurant, shopping, attending an event, or staying overnight, the time spent charging often translates into additional purchases and higher on-site spending. It also provides access to a highly desirable customer segment, with more than 75...