The Continuing Evolution of the U.S. Lodging Industry

Abstract

Although the U.S. lodging industry as a whole has grown substantially in the past twenty years, a notable shift has occurred in the distribution of rooms. Long-standing chains have been eclipsed by newer brands, and most of the growing brands operate midscale limited-service hotels or upscale and above. Midscale hotels with food and beverage and economy chains, as well as independents, have seen reductions in market share and absolute room sales, even though these groups all have more rooms to sell. The lesson is clear: hotel brands must constantly reinvent themselves and work to appeal to new demographic groups.