HSMAI HOLDS LODGING CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER ROUNDTABLE

HSMAI hosted its first “Lodging Chief Marketing Officer Roundtable” in conjunction with American Express on February 1 in New York City. The invitation-only event engaged participants in an intimate forum about the “new normal” in lodging.

“The discussion was invaluable and participants shared perspectives on the various recovery scenarios and the short-term and long-term impact of the global economy in their businesses,” said Robert A. Gilbert, president/CEO of HSMAI. “Attendees also had rich dialogue regarding the new normal in media including the role and balance of print and digital.”

Lalia Rach, dean of the Tisch Center for Hospitality Tourism and Sports Management at NYU moderated the roundtable discussion. Professor Jeff Garten, Yale School of Management and an expert on global business strategy, was the keynote speaker and summarized how the global economy and consumer behavior have changed. He forecasted emerging economic trends that will likely impact hospitality and travel.

Jud Linville, president & CEO of American Express, was interviewed to identify his perspectives on “the new normal” as well as its implications on his strategic outlook, American Express brands, and the travel industry.

“We are seeing some spending come back from the depressed levels of last year,” said Linville. “We need to help remove friction and help consumers feel more comfortable. They are very attentive now to how and where they spend.”

In addition, a group of industry thought leaders discussed implications of the “new normal” in print, online, and other mediums brands use to connect with consumers and spoke about the evolution of dominant media strategies. They hypothesized about which strategies would be implemented in the next 18 months.