Automatic

🏡 Many major chains are expanding their luxury-lifestyle offerings, with a focus on brand identity and targeting specific traveler types. Design Hotels is selective about its portfolio, favoring culturally rooted experiences, unique design, and distinctive brand identity. Stijn Oyen, with over 20 years of experience, has joined Design Hotels during a vital period, aiming to create hotels that offer unique, immersive experiences reflective of each destination. Independently branded hotels have advantages in agility and authenticity, which appeal to post-pandemic travelers seeking purposeful experiences. The segment is expected to keep growing, driven by consumer demand for specialized, authentic experiences. Moreover, strong marketing and distribution support is crucial for success. Design Hotels plans to expand in Spain and internationally, while focusing on maintaining alignment with their philosophy. Talent retention is a challenge across the industry, with a growing emphasis on positive workplace culture and staff well-being. Innovation, guided by core principles, is vital, and Design Hotels fosters industry innovation through trend reports and cultural studies and organizes global events for owners to exchange ideas. After an excellent current year, they anticipate a strong autumn-winter season, with extended sunny seasons in places like Greece and Spain.