ThinkGrowth Day 1: What’s ahead for independent lodging in 2026

In this ThinkGrowth session, AHLA Senior Director Gizem Kilic gives independent hoteliers a concise, data-driven outlook on the U.S. hotel industry, covering 2025–2026 performance, muted RevPAR growth, and a still-recovering international inbound segment. She explains AHLA’s advocacy on labor and H‑2B visas amid persistent staffing shortages, and how high interest rates are delaying new hotel development. Kilic highlights the upside of major 2026 events (especially the FIFA World Cup)which are expected to drive significant demand and room revenue in host and surrounding markets. She also breaks down new tax provisions like “no tax on tips” and extended small business deductions, translating their impact for hotel owners and employees. The session closes with an invitation for independents to leverage AHLA’s research tools and State of the Industry report to navigate today’s challenges and plan for upcoming demand opportunities.