Industry news

Capex spreading thin
The lack of financing available in the current economic environment is increasing tensions between owners, brands and lenders, delegates at this year's Hospace 2011 conference in London heard. Read more ...

US fortunes on the rise
2012 will see a slow, steady improvement in the fortunes of US hotels. Revpar will rise 5.3% on the back of a 3% occupancy improvement and 3.5% ADR uplift. The predictions come from Travelclick's North American Hospitality Review. The first quarter will see a strong pick-up, thanks to improving business travel.

Arab spring will take time to produce a harvest
The Arabian Hotel Investment Conference kicked-off with soothing words from host Jonathan Worsley of Bench Events. He pointed to the rising passenger numbers coming through Dubai. "Underlying trends are still positive," he said. Read more ...

REITS continue buying spree
Host Hotels & Resorts, Strategic Hotels and Resorts and LaSalle Hotel Properties have all reiterated their commitment to acquisitions, with the latter two Reits going to the market to bolster their war chests. Read more ...

Blackstone refinancing marks mezzanine resurgence
BRE/Hospitality, controlled by Blackstone, has restructured Eu480m of debt, as it became the latest hospitality group to successfully restructure in the sector ahead of the expected wall of loan maturities due over the next few years. Read more ...