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THE WOODLANDS, TXMeeting spending is up and attendees are demanding higher quality. That seems to be the bottom line in Ten Top Hospitality Trends, the annual survey from Benchmark Hospitality International, which manages 31 resorts/conference centers throughout the U.S.

The trends we are seeing reflect that a lot positive is going on in the economy, says Jack Schmidt, chief marketing officer, Benchmark and Chairman of Americas Board, Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International.  The expansion of the economy, good news in the stock market and corporate earnings, that is all good news to the travel and meeting industry,       

Hit the Spa, Benchmark identified as the leading trend, with many hotels catering to the corporate clientele, implemented spa servicesand extensions of the health club. According to Schmidt, demographics show that travelers are taking better care of themselves, thus demanding these services. Spas have outpaced golf courses.

A close second was Spending is Taking off, with Benchmark finding that bookings for meetings were up 20-50 percent at the start of 2006, compared to the same period in 2005. Corporations are gravitating to higher-end properties, says Schmidt. They are holding more meetings and spending more on those meetings. The down cycle seems to be over. Meetings are being ratcheted up and are more of a priority. Another noteworthy trend is a revival of Training & Strategic Planning, indicating a rise in more effective meetings among mid and lower level managers and senior executives.   

Other trends in the Benchmark study include heightened conference center security; renewed emphasis on individual service and quality amenities; more luxury (such as plasma flat screen Televisions and superior bed and bath linens); and WiFi and related technology. Meeting attendees have expectations of technology, but the increase in business communications technologies never replaces the need for face-to-face meetings, adds Schmidt.

For the complete list click here: Ten Top Hospitality Trends