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UK: The Independent Hotel Show (IHS), in partnership with James Hallam, returns to Olympia London 15-16 October to connect independent hoteliers, interior designers and hospitality operators.
This year’s event will feature more than 30 sessions across the two days of the show. The Hotel Business Stage, in partnership with eviivo and designed by Spacebrand, will take a close look at the most important trends and topics impacting day-to-day operations for independent hoteliers.
On this stage, BHN editor Eloise Hanson will be joined by Chris Bancroft, hotel operations manager at The Newt; Kalindi Juneja, CEO of Pride of Britain; and Veryan Palmer, executive director of Headland Hotel Cornwall, to discuss the successes and challenges of hotel partnerships.
Hanson said: “The larger hotel chains are making concerted efforts to grow lifestyle portfolios, acquiring brands which built their very success on embracing independent identities. Consolidation may raise questions around the future of independent hotels, but it also may prompt the launch of exciting new concepts, services or amenities – all of which rely on strong partnerships.
“Some standalone independent hotels will find success in collaborating with representation and affiliation companies, enhancing visibility at an international scale to remain competitive. Some may look to strengthen relationships with relevant PR companies or technology providers, to deliver the right marketing messages to the right audiences. And let’s not forget local engagement, where the power of partnerships can boost reputation through building direct relationships with businesses and guests.
“The flexibility in offerings can empower independent hoteliers to be experimental with their decision making, and agile enough to adapt when and where necessary. The key lies in finding the right balance between collaboration and self-reliance; a theme we will explore at IHS London,” she added.
Juneja said: “Partnerships – whether in technology, marketing, or guest services – can be a great way to strengthen a hotel’s ambitions. Strategic partnerships can help by expanding reach, improving operational efficiency, and elevating brand recognition. Collaborations can provide access to new markets, advanced technologies, and shared resources that may be otherwise inaccessible.”
Elsewhere at the two-day event, the Innovation Stage, in partnership with Guestline and Mews, designed by Design Command, will explore the themes, initiatives, technologies and trailblazers that will define the independent hotel sector in the years to come.
Plus, the Social Business Space, in partnership with HotelPartner Revenue Management, will host a wide range of networking events and workshops for hoteliers to connect with industry peers and work through shared challenges.
To discover more about the 2024 seminar programme, and to register for a complimentary trade ticket, click here.
