Priceline bookings up: Priceline Group reported a 26% increase in fourth-quarter gross travel bookings, to US$15.1 billion, over the same period a year ago. Profit increased 21%; net income was up 34%, to US$674 million.
Crown cuts? James Packer’s Crown Resorts is reportedly planning deep cuts in the casino group, including selling golf courses and ending sports sponsorships, according to a story in the Australian. The company has seen a drop in demand from Chinese tourists; as well, several staff members were arrested in China last year for alleged gambling crimes.
InterContinental in Malaysia: InterContinental Hotels Group signed a management agreement with Yuk Tung Properties Sdn. Bhd. To develop a 338-room Crowne Plaza in downtown Kuala Lumpur. The Crowne Plaza Kuala Lumpur City Centre is scheduled to open in 2018.
No Brexit problems here: The Irish Hotels Federation is reporting a solid beginning to 2017 despite the decline in the pound and other Brexit fallout. Many hotels surveyed said bookings are up compared with last year, and advance bookings for the year are higher as well.
EHL certificates: Ecole hotelière de Lausanne has introduced new advanced certificates. The 12-week online programs cover hospitality management subjects. The first certificate will cover hotel distribution strategy, revenue management and e-marketing.