Our Publications & Research

The Rise of Retailtainment

As published by Park World Magazine: The American shopping mall has seen rapid growth over several decades since the 1950s. These retail havens were anchored by large department stores that attracted shoppers and made the American mall popular with the masses, but the rise of e-commerce and the explosion of online shopping have changed the

Hotel Growth Continues in Major Ohio Markets

Benefiting from a strong economy, the United States hotel industry is currently experiencing a boom, which has developers across the country looking for their next opportunity. Many are finding that opportunity in major Ohio markets, as evidenced by significant growth in recent years. The Cincinnati, Cleveland and Columbus MSAs have each seen at least 15

Waterparks: What’s on Deck in 2018?

Introduction The waterpark industry continues to expand in North America, with more than $1 billion in new investment in indoor and outdoor waterparks and their related resorts in 2018. Nearly 60 expansions and new facilities will open in 2018. We project 14 municipal and eight private outdoor waterparks will open, outpacing 2017’s nine municipal and

Data reveals risks, prospects facing US hotels in 2018

This article was originally published by Hotel News Now. With the start of the new year, many of us take stock of where we are and what 2018 holds in store. The status of the U.S. hotel industry partly depends on the lens you’re looking through—whether you’re a franchise company, developer, owner, operator or investor.

Hoteliers Take Note as Social Entertainment Venues Innovate

Over the past several years our consultancy has been asked to explore social entertainment options that enhance a patron’s experience whether at a resort, restaurant, casino, or mixed-use development. The trends of what’s hot and innovative always ignites the discussion. The evolution of social entertainment involves an innovative mix of activities, culinary, and entertainment value

Convention center hotels boost both supply, demand

Municipalities across the United States are seeking approvals, funding or public-private partnerships to develop or redevelop their convention centers with an attached, big-box hotel. City councils in Kansas City and Oklahoma City are in process of getting approvals and funding secured while Portland, Oregon, and Chicago have such projects underway. One of the latest convention

2017 Waterpark Forecast: Continued Growth

The waterpark industry continues to expand in North America, with more than $550 million worth of new investment in indoor and outdoor waterparks and their related resorts in 2016.

Houston Hotel Market: Will 2017 be Up or Down

With Super Bowl 51 in the history books, Houston hotels are back to facing an uncertain future. The big question to answer in 2017 is, will this be a year of ups or downs for the local hotel market?

The Financial Impact of Hotel Renovations

This article explores what hoteliers should consider before renovating hotel properties, including the effect on occupancy and ADR, timing, ROI, and mandates imposed by franchise companies.

Gaming a Winning Bet in Ohio

This article compares the performance of casino slot machines and racino VLTs and gives an overview of the Ohio gaming industry.

Measuring the Economic Benefits of Tourism

The investments from state governments into tourism more than pay for themselves when compared to the travel and tourism revenue they generate.

Golf Entertainment Complexes Offer New Spin on an Old Game

With the closure of almost 1,500 18-hole equivalent golf course in the last ten years, golf entertainment complexes offer a new spin on golf that has the potential to bring new players to the game.

2016’s waterpark forecast: Bigger is better

The waterpark industry continues to expand in North America, with more than $500 million of new investment in indoor and outdoor waterparks and their related resorts in 2015.

How Hoteliers Can Handle a Minimum Wage Jump

Hoteliers need to ready themselves for the possibility of wage increases and implement ways to mitigate the new costs of operation.

One Drop at a Time (Part Two)

Part two of this article profiles several outdoor waterpark attractions and analyzes their water consumption versus their water use.