NEW YORK— A report by Reuters indicates that leisure companies will post steady gains in 2002, including the hotel industry. Part of the improvement, to come in the second half of the year, will be derived from the fact that year-over-year comparisons will be easier to beat in 2002, as statistics are compared to the down period that is occurring now. RevPAR still remains about 15% below year-ago levels through early December 2001. “People are traveling again, more so on the consumer side than on the business. Were definitely in recovery mode in 2002,” said Credit Lyonnais Securities analyst Bryan Maher. Hotels best positioned to do well next year are those serving mid- to lower-end travelers, especially ones whose guests arrive by car, including Hilton Hotels Corp. and Marriott International. Luxury operators like Four Seasons Hotels and Ritz-Carlton may take longer to recover.
Previous ArticleShilo Pushing Franchise Envelope
Next Article November RevPAR Shows Slight Improvement