The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) is excited to announce the first ever Commercial Futures Forum, which will take place on Oct. 28, 2024 in San Antonio, TX, held in conjunction with The Hospitality Show produced by AHLA and Questex. This inaugural event, planned by an HSMAI steering committee of Chief Commercial Officers, will bring together top commercial leaders to explore the evolving dynamics of business travel and loyalty within the hotel industry.

The half-day forum, themed “Understanding the Changing Dynamics of Business Travel,” will address the commercial impacts of New Distribution Capability (NDC), the complexities of multi-sourcing, and the critical need to manage brands and properties in the evolving distribution landscape. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts through insightful presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, gaining valuable knowledge to enhance their B2B2C strategies.

“This event marks the first in a series of HSMAI Futures Forum gatherings, designed to help commercial leaders stay ahead of emerging trends in business travel,” said Andrew Rubinacci, Chair, HSMAI Americas. “We are excited to foster a collaborative environment where industry professionals can learn, network, and drive commercial success in this rapidly changing landscape.”

Agenda highlights include:
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• New and Emerging Travel Trends: The McKinsey Perspective – presented by Ryan Mann, Partner at McKinsey & Company, offering insights into future travel and consumer behavior trends.
• Unlocking Market Insights to Optimize Performance – featuring insights from Amadeus, Kalibri Labs, and other leading industry experts on current trends in hotel performance and business travel.
• The Evolution of Business Travel – panel discussions on the evolution of the customer journey and booking trends featuring executives from Derbysoft, HRS, and Navan
• Digital Transformation and Travel Tech Advancements – panel discussions on how travel technology and distribution partners are leading the way in digital transformation, moderated by Michael Shiwdin, Group Vice President, Guest
• Engagement, Loyalty and Strategic Partnerships for Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Designed for senior corporate commercial and operations leaders from hotel brands, management companies, and ownership groups, as well as industry partners looking to stay informed on the future of business travel, the forum will also feature ample networking opportunities, including a networking lunch where attendees will share insights and build professional relationships.

Registration is complimentary for hoteliers, while non-hotel industry professionals can register for $750. Hotelier attendees of the HSMAI Commercial Futures Forum will also receive a complimentary pass to The Hospitality Show on Oct. 29-30, a $795 value. To register for the Commercial Futures Forum, visit here.

Amadeus, Corpay, DerbySoft, HRS, Ideas Collide, Kalibri Labs, Laasie, Navan and Sabre Hospitality  have been announced as the partners sponsoring HSMAI’s Commercial Futures Forum.

For additional information including the event’s agenda, registration details, speakers, housing, and partnership opportunities, visit americas.hsmai.org/hsmai-commercial-futures-forum-focus-on-business-travel-and-loyalty.

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