Extended Stay America brought franchise owners together at its annual conference to discuss growth and operations across the extended-stay sector. The event included sessions on sales, marketing, franchise services and training, along with discussions on operational issues facing extended-stay properties. Owners also shared practical lessons and strategies with their peers. The conference reflects the brand’s continued focus on supporting franchisees as demand for longer hotel stays grows. Read more

Rising costs are forcing US hospitality operators to make difficult choices around pricing and equipment investment, according to SilverChef’s 2026 Hospitality Operator Report. Sixty-eight percent of operators raised menu prices over the past year, while 30% expect to raise them again. About 27% said they cannot afford needed equipment upgrades, and 33% delayed a planned upgrade because of cost. Cooking equipment, refrigeration and POS technology are among the areas creating the biggest operational concerns. Read more.

Hilton Garden Inn New York/Manhattan-Midtown East has completed a full property renovation, refreshing the hotel at 206 East 52nd Street in New York. The 206-room property now features updated accommodations and refreshed guest facilities. The hotel continues to offer an on-site restaurant, room service and fitness center. Hilton currently lists the property as recently renovated, marking the completion of its transformation in one of Manhattan’s busiest hotel markets. Read more.

Several hotel groups are adding properties and entering new destinations as international hospitality expansion continues. Mangia has strengthened its luxury presence in Sicily and Sardinia, while Minor Hotels has added properties across Europe, Australia, Africa and New Zealand. Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio is also set to enter Playa del Carmen through the conversion of three resorts, adding 676 rooms to its all-inclusive pipeline. The activity shows hotel groups using both new openings and conversions to broaden their reach. Read more.

Volumetric Building Companies has been selected as the manufacturer for a major multifamily modular development in the US. VBC specializes in large-scale modular construction and has manufactured more than 6,500 units across its projects. The company’s portfolio includes multifamily housing, student accommodation and modular hotels. The latest project adds to the growing use of factory-built construction for large residential developments, where modules can be manufactured away from the construction site before being assembled on location. Read more.

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