Leaders have been forced to react and respond to a dynamic environment that featured everything from a dismantled supply chain and muted virtual teams to overdue calls for equality, mental health concerns, and an economy on the brink of disaster.

Well, that was fun. Now what?

Leaders can’t just flip the switch and resume their previously scheduled path to success. And the way forward? It’s filled with unclear and competing priorities, contradictions in what customers want and expect, and a workforce that’s completely divided on why they work and where they work. How do leaders inspire, inform, and prepare their people and organizations for that?

Now what? Prioritize growth.

Yes, that means financial growth. But it also means personal growth. Organizational growth. Systems growth. The growth of new communities, new processes, new environments, and more.

Great challenges always create great opportunities. And this opportunity is a once-in-lifetime chance to reinvent and re-energize you, your team, and your business. So don’t go back to where you were. Go forward to where you deserve to be.

Too challenging? Don’t worry. You’ll grow into it.

CBRE Hotels will share their up to date outlook for the Alberta accommodation sector for the remainder of 2024 and a first glimpse at how the sector may move forward in 2025. They will once again include discussions of factors impacting both top line and financial performance.

In 2023, Alberta’s tourism industry has continued to experience incredible positive momentum with a full recovery of international spending and outperformed other major provinces in year-over-year growth. And with the Government of Alberta’s long-term goal to double tourism expenditures from $10 billion to $25 billion by 2035, the hospitality sector will play a very important role in realizing that outcome.  Learn more about how Travel Alberta’s work to assess growth potential opportunities for the sector including an analysis with CBRE on the development of diverse accommodation concepts across multiple Tourism Development Zones.

Tracy Douglas-Blowers will moderate a discussion with Travel Alberta and CBRE to discuss their presentations and roadmaps going forward. This interactive discussion will delve into the policy requirements essential for supporting these strategies, and address key issues and challenges facing the industry.  

Enjoy a relaxing lunch and explore our vibrant marketplace, where you'll discover a diverse array of innovative products and solutions from leading vendors. This is a great opportunity to network, engage with cutting-edge offerings, and gain insights into the latest trends and technologies in the industry. Savor a delectable selection of desserts served right in the marketplace area. 

Chief Economist for the Government of Alberta joins us to share an economic outlook for Alberta, providing insights on the realities affecting the future of tourism and travel in Alberta. What types of investment will be driving growth for hotels? What factors have the most impact on Alberta hotels?

Join us for an important update from the Hotel Association of Canada (HAC), where we will share the latest developments, industry trends, and key initiatives shaping the national hospitality landscape. This session will provide valuable insights into HAC’s strategic priorities, upcoming projects, and advocacy efforts.

Explore the latest shifts in Alberta’s political landscape and their implications for the hospitality industry during this comprehensive update from AHLA. This session will delve into recent political developments, policy changes, and what they mean for Alberta’s hotels. Gain insights into strategic opportunities and challenges on the horizon, and understand how these dynamics will shape the future of our industry. Stay informed and prepared as AHLA outlines the path forward and the actions needed to navigate the evolving political environment.

Join us for an engaging roundtable discussion where AHLA members will shape the future of our industry. This session invites you to contribute your insights on pivotal topics including cyber security, sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices, safety & security, and advocacy. Your input will guide our strategic direction for the upcoming year, ensuring that we address the most pressing issues and opportunities in the hotel and lodging sector.

In an increasingly digital world, hotels are prime targets for cyber-attacks due to the sensitive guest data they handle. This session will explore the latest trends in cyber security and the specific vulnerabilities in the hospitality industry.