In this episode of The Hotel Growth Podcast, Simon Numphud, Managing Director of AA Media, shares his wealth of knowledge from decades in the hospitality industry. We discuss the current challenges facing hotel operators, from rising employer costs and business rate reform to the ongoing battle for talent retention. Simon also dives into the role of AI in streamlining operations, and how hotels can creatively use data to enhance the guest experience. Plus, we explore the shift in guest expectations towards more personalized and experiential stays, and Simon gives us a sneak peek into the exciting updates to the AA’s hotel classification system. Whether you're in operations, marketing, or tech, Simon’s insights are essential for any hotel brand looking to navigate the road ahead in 2025.