Yes, we're in the middle of geopolitical challenges, and investor confidence might be affected. But don't let that distract you – the opportunities are still here, validated by the data?

Analysing the opportunities, challenges, and long-term outlook of investing in the hotel industry.

The luxury trend is growing in Bucharest as well in Sofia, with several hotels announced in both cities. Is the demand real, and are there enough clients to support premium hotels? What will these hotels deliver, and how will the market change as a result?

Manchise is gaining traction across EMEA, but what does it really mean? Is it a simple transition from management to franchise, or is it more complex? Will this be the future asset-light model for brands?

The hotel market in Central and Eastern Europe is characterized by strong fundamentals, attracting a growing number of investors seeking asset diversification. In addition to investments in existing hotels, building conversions are gaining popularity. With rising office vacancies, innovative hospitality concepts, and limited new developments, conversion projects are poised to play a crucial role in the future of hotel investments.

Hotel conversions have been a common strategy in Western Europe, but they are now gaining traction in CEE. This panel will discuss how conversion models impact negotiations, investment strategies in Romania, and long-term profitability.

Romania and Bulgaria’s Black Sea regions face similar pressures to meet the evolving expectations of hotel development. Despite differences, their focus shares many similarities, as both work to create the same seaside destination along the shared coast.

To prosper in today's dynamic hotel market, a strategic combination of efficiency and innovation is essential. This requires understanding efficient operations, adapting to global technological shifts, and implementing strategic operational strategies that build long-term investment success.

Does the operational flow start when guests arrive, or does it begin with the very first step—feasibility? This panel will discuss how the customer journey should be considered at the development stage, influencing architectural decisions and investment strategies before any money is spent.

This session will discuss the pros and cons of outsourcing versus keeping hotel operations in-house by examining costs, potential revenue gains, and the impact on profit margins, considering factors like brand positioning, long-term growth, and market adaptability.

Traditional management models are evolving. this shift reflects a strategic move towards specialised expertise and flexible operational structures, aligning with the need for agile responses in a dynamic market.

Helmut will focus on the role of storytelling in hospitality, illustrating how narrative, sensory design, and cultural context contribute to differentiation, guest engagement, and value creation.

Developing a successful property requires a clear strategy that aligns with market demand, operational efficiency, and guest expectations. But how can hotels maximise their profitability potential in today's world of standardisation?