AGENDA

Theme: The Evolution of Corporate Travel for Independent Hotels 

 

Tuesday, March 3 

Client Recommended Arrival Day: Relax, Refresh, Unpack and Unwind (Arrivals by 3:00 p.m.) 

5:30 p.m. Opening General Session – Preferred Hotels & Resorts Brand and Sponsor Introductions - Level 2, Salon 3

6:30 p.m. Welcome Reception & Dinner - Lobby Level, Bar Z & Zephyr Restaurant

8:30 p.m. Afterglow (Optional) - Penthouse Suite 1801

Wednesday, March 4 

7:30 a.m. Breakfast - Level 2, Salon 3 Pre-Function Area

8:30 a.m. General Session – Preferred Hotels & Resorts: How We Work - Level 2, Salon 3

  • Brand Positioning and Market Share  

  • Distribution Channels (GDS vs OTA) 

  • I Prefer Hotel Rewards Program  

9:15 a.m. Open Discussion – Advance Registration Questions 

  1. What are your major concerns about the current landscape for corporate travel today? 

  1. What is one thing that has changed in your travel program in the last year that has made your job more challenging? 

  1. In what situations do Independent Hotels work best in your managed and/or consortia programs and where are the opportunities for improvement? 

10:15 a.m. Morning Break 

10:45 a.m. Roundtable Discussions – Part 1 (RFP Process) 

  • Static vs. Dynamic Pricing – Quick Poll 

  • Strategic Solicitation Process – GAM vs. Nomination List 

  • Sourcing Capabilities – New enhancements or benchmark tools 

  • Performance Measurement & Compliance – Rate Usage, Re-Shopping Strategy, Market Share 

12:30 p.m. Lunch - Level 2, Pre-Function & Terrace

1:45 p.m. Roundtable Discussions – Part 2 (Technology)  - Level 2, Salon 3

  • Distribution Channel Shift & Loyalty – Who’s in Control of Rates and Content? (GDS, OBT, OTA and Direct Connectivity) 

  • AI and Your Global Program Impact  

  • What are the Gaps Within the Hotel Ecosystem that Can Improve the Travel Experience (from booking to departure)?  

3:45 p.m.  Day 1 Summary Remarks 

4:15 p.m. GIFTTS/Philanthropic Activity - Level 2, Pre-Function & Terrace

4:45 p.m. Afternoon Break/Free Time 

7:30 p.m. Meet in Lobby for Concert Departures (Walking shoes recommended)**NEW TIME**

8:00 p.m. Lady Gaga Concert/Dinner (State Farm Arena) – Suite L3 

Thursday, March 5

8:00 a.m. Breakfast - Level 2, Salon 3 Pre-Function Area

9:00 a.m. General Session – Preferred Hotels & Resorts: Traveler Experience - Level 2, Salon 3

  • Traveler Identity, Recognition & Personalization 

  • Executive Travel Program 

10:30 a.m. Morning Break 

10:45 a.m. Closing Session 

  • Action Items and Next Steps 

  • Future Dates for Upcoming Council Meetings  

12:00 p.m. Grab-and-Go Lunch and Departures 

*Topics subject to change.