Hoteldata.com's H1 2026 report shows stronger profitability across the US hotel sector, but the gains were not evenly shared. Across roughly 5,000 hotels, GOP margin rose 3.6 percentage points to 44.9%, while RevPAR increased 8.9% to $144.01. Luxury hotels led the gains, benefiting from stronger pricing power, while economy properties saw demand improve but struggled to convert it into higher rates. The results point to a healthier market overall, but with a widening gap between hotel segments. Read more.

Colonial Heights, Virginia, has approved the sale of about 38 acres of city-owned land to SINA Hospitality for $1. The developer plans to build a $180 million sports, hotel and restaurant complex with athletic fields. The project is expected to support sports tourism and could generate around $1.5 million in annual tax revenue for the city. The unusual land deal is tied to the developer taking on cleanup and development costs associated with the site. Read more.

The Leading Hotels of the World has added 10 independent hotels to its global portfolio, expanding its collection of more than 450 properties. The new members span Europe and Asia, including destinations in Italy, Austria, France, Spain, Lebanon, Japan, Malaysia and Indonesia. The additions include both newly opened properties and established hotels. The expansion reflects continued demand for independent luxury hotels with distinct local identities. Read more.

The Hari London, The Hari Hong Kong and the upcoming The Hari Singapore will join IHG Hotels & Resorts' Vignette Collection later this year. The partnership brings the three independent luxury hotels into IHG's global system while allowing them to retain their individual identities. The move gives The Hari access to IHG's distribution and loyalty network. For IHG, the deal adds three distinctive properties across major Asian and European markets. Read more.

Spanish hotel group Aura Hoteles has used Cloudbeds as the technology foundation for rapid expansion from zero to six properties within a few months. The Galicia-based company uses Cloudbeds' PMS and Open API to build custom tools for housekeeping, guest communication and smart access. This approach allows Aura to add properties without rebuilding its technology stack each time. The company is using the platform to support further growth across Spain and potentially beyond. Read more.

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