The Hospitality Show interviews

Highlights from Sonesta, Wyndham, Indigo and Curator Hotel and Resort leadership

The Entegra lodging team was thrilled to exhibit and network at The Hospitality Show in San Antonio, October 28-30, 2024. Glenn Haussman, from No Vacancy News and a regular Entegra collaborator, conducted video interviews with several hotel industry leaders at Entegra’s booth.

Interview: Sonesta Hotels - Keith Pierce, EVP and President of Franchise Development

See the interview here

Keith Pierce, EVP and President of Franchise Development of Sonesta Hotels discussed Sonesta’s rapid expansion, strategic franchising, and the company's innovative approach to tackling supply chain challenges.

Entegra takeaway

• We loved hearing about Sonesta’s commitment to brand consistency given our own focus on it, from locked order guides to managing supply chain issues. Read more and download our free report: Get more from your GPO: How to improve brand consistency.
• Managing supply chain challenges also struck a chord: Our deep bench of supply chain and contract experts know how to leverage our $42 billion in buying power to meet both our client and suppliers’ needs.

Interview: Wyndham Hotels & Resorts - Scott Strickland, Chief Commercial Officer

See the interview here

Scott Strickland discussed Wyndham’s cutting-edge technology which is aimed at improving guest experiences and boosting franchisee profits. From AI-driven interactions to new loyalty rewards, Scott revealed how Wyndham is setting a new standard using technology.

Entegra takeaway

• Entegra is no stranger to AI. Our clients have access to the AI-powered Entegra Shopping Assistant which helps them find more savings while shopping on distributors’ e-store in real-time.
• Like Wyndham, many of Entegra’s lodging clients are committed to providing guests with customizable experiences, including:
  • A massive network of FF&E (furniture, fixtures and equipment)
  • Lighting
  • Custom scents
  • Live music and playlists

Interview: The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, Steve Palmer, Founder

See the interview here

“It’s not a hotel restaurant; it’s a restaurant that happens to be in a hotel.” Steve Palmer shares insights like these and more, covering his F&B-first approach, quality over quantity, maximizing revenue and supply chain strategies.

Entegra takeaway

• Helping operators make smarter, healthier and more ethical F&B purchasing decisions is what Entegra does every day for clients.
• Palmer’s passion for community engagement aligns to Entegra’s robust Local and Direct program, which helps Entegra clients source local food items and gives them easy access to a network of local and regional suppliers.

Interview: Curator Hotel and Resort Collection Hotels, Jennifer Barnwell, President

See the interview here

By empowering boutique and independent hotels to compete with larger brands and OTAs, Jennifer Barnwell discusses how Curator is revolutionizing the independent hotel space. Curator’s marketing solutions amplify exposure and boost bookings for independent hotels

Entegra takeaway

• Carving out a unique brand identity is challenging, especially for boutique and independent hotels. Entegra’s commitment to helping hotels with brand consistency and live up to their brand promise is unparalleled. Support includes:
  • Finding affordable on-brand products
  • Support when faced with supply chain issues
  • Monitoring locations for consistent purchasing to stay on brand

Interested in exploring what Entegra can do for you? Contact us today.

Related:
Insights from the Lodging Conference