Best Western International Annual Convention 2022 was held in Cleveland, Ohio and featured a rock theme. At the general session, John Kelly, chairman of Best Western board of directors, expressed his satisfaction that the company made a right decision in appointing Larry Cuculic as the new CEO, after the retirement of David Kong.
Larry has been very active the past year and has been working non-stop for the growth of the company as well as increasing revenue for its members.
“He and his team are laser focused on driving more revenue to all of our hotels. He believes that when a member wins, we all win,” exclaimed Kelly.
After Kelly’s speech, Larry took the stage and presented an overview of the company’s performance this year. The company registered an impressive 37.8% improvement in RevPAR and was doing well across all segments of the market including the midscale, upper midscale, upscale segments.
Larry congratulated everybody saying, “I commend you for having what was the greatest revenue summer in our history.”
Larry, after confirming they had a wonderful and tremendously successful year, also warned the members to exercise caution by saying the pressures of inflation, global uncertainties and threats of recession are real challenges. “We need to invest wisely, thoughtfully and prudently,” he advised.
Larry assured the members that the company is investing their money in a planned manner and focusing on technology, marketing, sales and revenue management. In advertising, the money is being spent in a strategic, thoughtful and research-based manner, so as to get optimal returns on the marketing investments.
“We do not waste a penny. We spend when we need to spend.There is constant analysis and oversight on return on ad spend and accountability,” Larry continued.
The company has been seeing remarkable growth in international markets as well. Ron Pohl, president of international operations, noted that “the major growth in the hospitality industry and for Best Western Hotel Group will be in international markets. All major brands today are focusing on international development. But we already have a strong presence, and we’re creating a more effective global structure. We are well positioned for growth.”‘
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