Skip to content

Search

Latest Stories

U.S. hotel industry mourns hospitality veteran Rosen

Industry associations shared their memories of Rosen Hotels & Resorts founder

U.S. hotel industry mourns hospitality veteran Rosen

U.S. HOTEL INDUSTRY mourns the passing of Harris Rosen, founder of Rosen Hotels & Resorts, who died Monday morning at 85. AAHOA called him an iconic figure known for his entrepreneurial vision, philanthropy and support of hospitality associations. The American Hotel & Lodging Association said he was an inspirational leader exemplifying the passion and drive essential for success in hospitality.

Rosen Hotels & Resorts was instrumental in the success of AAHOA’s 35th Annual Convention & Trade Show this year, hosting attendees at two of its Orlando properties, the association noted.


"Harris Rosen was not only a trailblazer in hospitality but also a tremendous supporter of AAHOA and our members," said Miraj Patel, AAHOA’s chairman. "During our preparations for AAHOACON24 in Orlando, Harris personally joined us for a site visit. I had the privilege of pinning him as an AAHOA Honorary Member in recognition of his industry contributions and support for our association."

Rosen’s advocacy for education, including the Tangelo Park Program, and his dedication to empowering underserved communities reflected his belief in hospitality's transformative power, AAHOA said.

"His willingness to collaborate and ensure AAHOACON24's success exemplified the spirit of partnership and hospitality that defined his career," said Laura Lee Blake, AAHOA’s president and CEO. "Harris Rosen's leadership and generosity have left a lasting impact on AAHOA and the hospitality industry as a whole, and we extend our prayers and thoughts to his family, colleagues, and all who knew him."

Rosanna Maietta, AHLA president and CEO, called Rosen an inspirational figure and a shining example of the passion and drive essential for hoteliers' success.

“His love for the industry made him the largest independent hotelier in Florida, but he showed us the true meaning of hospitality through his philanthropic work,” said Maietta. “His generous donation to the University of Central Florida built the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, which was just ranked best in the nation for the fifth consecutive year for its hospitality management and tourism program. Harris left an indelible mark on this industry and its people that will be felt for generations. We will miss him.”

Frank Santos, vice president of Rosen Hotels, announced Rosen's passing, saying he was surrounded by family and loved ones.

“Harris was an angel to so many here on earth, and now he takes his place among the angels in heaven,” Santos said. “A beloved father, grandfather and a pillar of our community, his boundless generosity and love touched countless lives through his unwavering commitment to helping underserved communities, promoting education, advancing the fight against cancer, and supporting health and wellness initiatives. The family will hold a private celebration of life and kindly asks for privacy during this difficult time. Thank you.”

In July, another industry veteran, Manhar P. “MP” Rama, AAHOA past chairman and co-founder of JHM Hotels, now known as Auro Hotels, in Greenville, South Carolina, passed away at 74.

More for you

U.S. travelers using mobile devices to book independent boutique hotel stays with personalized offers and smart tech in 2025

Study: Personalization boosts independent hotel bookings

Summary:

  • Around 95 percent of U.S. travelers are more likely to book independent hotels with personalized offers, according to TakeUp.
  • 59 percent plan more travel in 2025, with 78 percent favoring weekend getaways and 65 percent domestic trips.
  • Top booking deterrents are few reviews at 39 percent, unclear cleanliness or quality at 38 percent and inflexible cancellations at 29 percent.

PERSONALIZED OFFERS BASED on interests would make 95 percent of U.S. travelers more likely to book at an independent hotel, according to TakeUp, a revenue management platform for independent hotels. About 85 percent are open to technologies such as smart check-in, recommendations and AI-based pricing.

Keep ReadingShow less
Auro Hotels Showcases India Culture at TCMU Exhibit

Auro unveils 'India Cultural Corner' for children

Summary:

  • Auro Hotels opened the India Cultural Corner, where children can check in and explore Indian culture at The Children's Museum of the Upstate.
  • Families can engage with community art, activities and storytelling about daily life in India.
  • The exhibit runs through May 2026, offering interactive learning on Indian culture.

AURO HOTELS RECENTLY opened the India Cultural Corner at The Children's Museum of the Upstate in Greenville, South Carolina, offering a look into Indian stories for American families. The exhibition, held at The Grand Geo Hotel and running through May 2026, includes a hotel desk where children can check in and explore Indian culture through interactive activities.

Keep ReadingShow less
U.S. Firms Lose $2.4 Trillion by Skimping on Business Travel

Report: Business travel gaps cost U.S. firms $2.4T

Summary:

  • U.S. companies risk losing more than $2.4 trillion in sales due to underinvestment in business travel, says GBTA.
  • An 8.3 percent T&E increase could drive a 6 percent sales gain, despite post-COVID virtual meeting tools.
  • Current T&E spending is $294 billion—$24 billion short of the $319.1 billion needed for peak profitability.

U.S. COMPANIES ARE missing more than $2.4 trillion in potential sales due to underinvestment in business travel, according to a Global Business Travel Association report. Despite a post-pandemic rebound, travel and entertainment spending remains $66 billion below 2019 levels.

Keep ReadingShow less
AI threats in hospitality

Study: Cyberattacks on hotels to surge

Summary:

  • Around 66 percent of hotel IT and security executives expect more cyberattacks this summer, and 50 percent anticipate greater severity, according to VikingCloud.
  • Guest-facing systems most at risk include POS and payment technology at 72 percent, guest WiFi at 56 percent and front desk systems at 34 percent.
  • About 48 percent of executives lack confidence in their staff’s ability to detect and respond to AI-driven attacks and deepfakes.

APPROXIMATELY 66 PERCENT of hotel IT and security executives expect an increase in cyberattack frequency and 50 percent anticipate greater severity during the summer travel season, according to cybersecurity firm VikingCloud. In summer 2024, 82 percent of North American hotels experienced a cyberattack and 58 percent were targeted five or more times.

Keep ReadingShow less
Newly renovated Marriott Saddle Brook hotel in New Jersey, now managed by Stonebridge Cos.

Stonebridge to manage Marriott in Saddle Brook, NJ

Summary:

  • Stonebridge Cos. has added the Marriott Saddle Brook in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, to its full-service portfolio.
  • The renovated property is owned by Victory Worldwide LLC, led by CEO Anil Monga.
  • Located 20 miles from New York City, it is near the Meadowlands Sports Complex, Garden State Plaza and Hackensack University Medical Center.

STONEBRIDGE COS. RECENTLY added the 244-room Marriott Saddle Brook in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, to its full-service managed portfolio. The property is owned by Victory Worldwide LLC, led by CEO Anil Monga.

Keep ReadingShow less