IH/M&RS Keynotes To Focus On Economy

NEW YORK— The economic downturn will get a good deal of attention during keynote presentations at the upcoming 87th Annual International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show to be held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center here from Nov. 9 to 12. The first presentation on Saturday, Nov. 9 will feature a panel of several CEOs addressing the topic, “Recovery & Resiliency Towards a Stronger Lodging Industry.” Panelists include Robert Cotter, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide; Joseph Kane Jr., Days Inns Worldwide; Georges Le Mener, Accor North America; Eric Pfeffer, International Hotel & Restaurant Association; and Paul Sistare, Atlantica Hotels International. Jim Burba of Wimberly Allison, Tong & Goo will moderate. Economic conditions within the global hospitality industry will be assessed during a presentation on Sunday, Nov. 10 with a panel discussion on “The Health and Heartbeat of the Hospitality Industry: A Diagnosis.” Participants include John Bell, Caribbean Hotel Association; Doug Carroll, USA TODAY; Hudson Riehle, NRA Research & Info Services Division; and Peter Yesawich, Yesawich, Pepperdine & Brown. The moderator will be Rudy Maxa, The Savvy Traveler. On Monday, Nov. 11, Danny Meyer, president, Union Square Hospitality Group, will offer a keynote address on “The Hospitality Economy: How To Get More By Giving More.” His remarks will focus on listening to customers and anticipating their needs. In addition to the economy, IH/M&RS keynote presentations will assess consumer preferences and hotel distribution. Philip Kendall, vp/food & beverage for Starwood, will discuss “The Changing Voice of the Customer,” exploring how consumer preferences in foodservice and hospitality are evolving. His presentation is slated for Nov. 9. Additionally, Flo Lugli of Galileo International will host a keynote session on Nov. 12 titled, “What is the Price for Broader Hotel Distribution?” The 2002 IH/M&RS is expected to attract 45,000 lodging and culinary professionals. There are more than 40 educational sessions scheduled for the event and 2,000 companies slated to exhibit.