IHIF 2024

The IHIF is the place where the global hotel community meets: where it joins together as one. This is what always sets IHIF apart and makes it distinct.

The Questex International Hospitality Investment Forum EMEA (IHIF EMEA) has once again cemented its reputation as a premier event in the hospitality investment landscape. Hosted at the prestigious InterContinental and Pullman hotels in Berlin, this year’s forum, ran through April 17, 2024, drew an impressive gathering of over 2,500 industry professionals. The conference brought together many threads of discussion, emphasizing innovation and inspiration to empower the community in navigating the market, realizing their visions, and seizing new opportunities.

The forum was marked by insightful presentations from leading experts in hospitality investment, setting a tone of optimism and strategic foresight. The event was abuzz with networking opportunities and dynamic exhibition areas, underscored by packed content sessions featuring prominent figures such as James Pomeroy from HSBC, Elie Malouf, CEO of IHG Hotels & Resorts, Mark Hoplamazian, CEO of Hyatt Hotels, Federico Gonzalez, CEO of Radisson Hotels, Sebastien Bazin, CEO of Accor, and Guy Verhofstadt, former Prime Minister of Belgium.

A highlight of IHIF EMEA 2024 was the Investor Council meeting, where a positive outlook on the transactions market was tempered by concerns over geopolitical tensions, high interest rates, and labor market pressures. Despite these challenges, there is a robust interest in increasing allocations to hospitality, with the lifestyle segment long term stay accommodation particularly attracting attention due to their robust performance and potential. The IHIF EMEA not only provided a platform for deep industry insights but also fostered a collaborative environment where innovation and strategic vision could thrive, underscoring the event’s role in shaping the future of hospitality investment.

The IHIF highlighted the investors' quandary as they stand at a crossroads grappling with the incessant waves of change ushered in by evolving consumer demands, emerging market dynamics, high interests making it wiser to buy bonds or earn bank interests rather than invest in notes.
Capitalizing on Consumer Shifts

One recurring motif echoing throughout the corridors of IHIF EMA is the transformative impact of consumer preferences on the hospitality landscape. From Marriott’s strategic focus on boutique luxury collections to Global Hotel Alliance’s pioneering alliance model, industry leaders are attuning their strategies to cater to the evolving tastes and expectations of modern travelers.

The hospitality sector is witnessing a paradigm shift, with investors leveraging consumer insights to craft immersive experiences and personalized services that transcend the traditional confines of accommodation. Brands like Moxy and Tribe exemplify this ethos, embracing innovation to captivate the imaginations of travelers and foster a sense of community amidst an increasingly interconnected world.

The Hotelization of Real Estate
Beyond the realms of traditional hospitality, IHIF IMEA sheds light on the convergence of industries, as evidenced by the burgeoning trend of “hotelization” in real estate. Investors and operators are embracing the principles of hospitality design and guest-centricity across diverse asset classes, signaling a departure from conventional paradigms towards a more experiential and customer-centric approach.
Fortune Favors the Bold

Amidst the fervent discussions and deal-making fervor at IHIF, one prevailing statement emerges: Despite the prevailing uncertainties, investors remain buoyed by the resilience of hospitality assets and the enduring allure of travel and tourism experiences. As Rob Schneider aptly observes, the global pipeline of hotel rooms continues to burgeon, underscoring the robust appetite for hospitality real estate investments across key markets.

Saudi Arabia: A Beacon of Investment Opportunity
In a compelling showcase of ambition and foresight, the Saudi Ministry of Tourism takes center at IHIF, presenting a compelling narrative of investment opportunity within the Kingdom’s burgeoning tourism landscape. With the unveiling Tourism Investment Enablers Program, Saudi Arabia seeks to position itself as a premier global tourism destination, catalyzing economic diversification and job creation in the process.

The Haves & Have Nots
The investment community at the conference was divided into two groups: the “Haves” and the “Have Nots.” The “Haves,” composed of private funds, were hesitant to invest in the hospitality industry. They were content with their current returns of 5-8% from secure institutions and bonds, which posed no risk. Consequently, they struggled to find more lucrative opportunities within the industry. On the other hand, the “Have Nots” had promising projects with the potential for excellent long-term returns but were unable to secure funding from the risk-averse “Haves.”

Navigating the Future
As the curtains closed on IHIF EMEA, attendees departed with a wealth of insights and opportunities, poised to navigate the evolving terrain of hospitality investment with renewed vigor and foresight. In an era defined by rapid change and transformative innovation, the adage rings true: adapt or risk becoming a footnote in the annals of hospitality history. The choice is clear and the future beckons—"will you embrace the winds of change or be left behind in their wake?”

Hope to see you there!

With best regards,

At Renard, customer service is not a "Department" it's an "Attitude"!

Sincerely,
Stephen J. Renard 
President

RENARD INTERNATIONAL HOSPITALITY SEARCH CONSULTANTS 
121 Richmond Street West, Suite 500 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 2K1 
Tel: (1) 416 364 8325, ext. 228
Mobile: (1) 416 890 0903 
Fax: (1) 416 364 4924 
Email: Steve@renardinternational.com 
Web site: www.renardinternational.com   www.renardglobalmanagement.com

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