News Briefs
- 10/30/2024
Encore Pioneers HR Innovation Programs to Further Support Frontline Workers
Encore, a global event technology and production services provider, confirmed today the launch of its pioneering ‘Overtime Savings Program’ in the United States, along with additional people-first programs to further support its ongoing workforce in a seasonal industry.
Powered by UKG’s payroll technology, this first-of-its-kind program aims to enhance financial wellness and stability for Encore’s frontline employees, many of whom work in markets that experience seasonal ebb and flow of business volumes.
With 12,000 team members providing event technology and production services at 2,200 hotels and conference venues in 20 countries, Encore faces the same challenges common in the hospitality industry. Seasonal fluctuations often result in workers’ hours varying from ample overtime during peak times to reduced schedules in off-season periods. This seasonality makes it difficult for workers to maintain consistent earnings and creates challenges for companies to retain talent in the off season.
“Encore has always believed its team members are the heart of our story. This people-first mindset motivates us to constantly evolve our team member experience and innovate around challenges, like the impact of seasonality, that the industry previously viewed as immutable,” said Ben Erwin, president and CEO of Encore.
In addition to the Overtime Savings Program, the company launched a Seasonal Leave of Absence Program, which offers team members the flexibility to take time off during slower seasons while retaining full benefits, accruing paid time off, and maintaining their tenure. This unique program enables employees to explore other work opportunities, pursue education, or focus on personal goals without sacrificing benefits or career progression. Both the Overtime Savings and Seasonal Leave of Absence Programs are active nationwide, with plans for global expansion.
“We established the program as another way to support our team members so that they can be at their best in delivering for our customers,” Erwin added. “With this innovation, they can better plan and save their premium overtime pay for periods of the year when they might not work as many hours. Providing this capability and funding a company-paid match for a portion of the savings should motivate financial wellness and enable them to continue to build their career with Encore. Team member reactions tell us we are onto something,” he said.
With a launch just after Labor Day, usage of the UKG Wallet™ increased tenfold compared to the prior year’s period. he company offered an initial savings match, similar to a 401k program incentive match, to reward healthy financial behavior.
“Financial stress is not a problem isolated to our industry, it’s a stressor for nearly everyone,” said Charlie Young, chief human resources officer at Encore. “Nearly 70% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck1 and Americans spent $9B in bank overdraft fees in 2023. The more we can do to reduce stress for our team members, the more focused they can be on our customers. We are successful in the event production business because of the unique combination of our technical expertise, hospitality mindset and ability to work under pressure and through challenges. Seasonal fluctuations are part of our business, but with a partner like UKG that understands every industry has unique challenges, we were able to innovate to support those unique needs to make our team members’ lives better.”
Cody Browne, a technical lead with five years of service for Encore in Las Vegas, said he will try the Overtime Savings program, in addition to accruing and saving his Paid Time Off, for the slow season in December in Las Vegas. He hopes the vacation time, in addition to the saved overtime funds, will afford him an out-of-state vacation to visit family. “I love that Encore is creating new opportunities, that’s one of the reasons I am interested in growing my career here,” he said.
- 12/4/2024
World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance Releases Whitepaper Charting Hospitality’s Path to Decarbonize the Global Food System
The global Hospitality industry can collectively reduce its food-related emissions by 30% by 2030, according to a new White Paper unveiled today.The ‘Decarbonizing hotel food systems’ White Paper recommends a pathway for the industry to cut up to 70 million tons of CO2 annually. Produced by the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance), Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, the Sustainable Markets Initiative and Systemiq, the paper outlines that hotels can influence the global food system by leveraging their procurement power and optimizing energy use. With the Hospitality industry representing 1% of all food production emissions, and generating 3% of global food waste, the industry has an important role to play in transforming food systems for the better.Highlighting innovative solutions like waste-tracking technologies, which can cut waste by up to 50%, the paper seeks to engage hospitality leaders in driving systemic transformation in the way food is sourced, prepared, and consumed in hotels.The paper’s findings were discussed in October at the Alliance’s Annual Summit in the US, to members who represent over 55,000 hotels, 7 million rooms and over 300 brands globally. The Alliance’s CEO, Glenn Mandziuk, and Iberostar’s Global Sustainability Director - Innovation, Research and Destinations, Erika Harms, issued a ‘call to action’ to the industry. With case studies illustrating how AI can be utilized to estimate food covers to introducing a circular food system, the paper is a groundbreaking tool for the industry.Iberostar, with an ambitious goal to decarbonize and reach net zero by 2030, has implemented many practices including AI waste management technology, changes in procurement to eliminate single use plastics, and is transitioning kitchen machinery towards lower emission alternatives.The White Paper is supported by the Sustainable Markets Initiative, the world’s ‘go-to’ private sector organization on sustainable transition founded by His Majesty King Charles III in 2020, then The Prince of Wales. Its Hospitality and Tourism Task Force - co-chaired by the Alliance’s Glenn Mandziuk - convenes CEOs from across the tourism and hospitality industry and aims to support the reduction of emissions and pursue tangible, scalable and practical solutions to address climate change and find more sustainable solutions.In September, senior leaders across the industry came together at New York Climate Week to review the findings ahead of the paper’s publication, discussing how best the industry can reach its 2030 target to reduce emissions and drive change. Leaders suggested the creation of an inter-sectoral ‘lab’ to collaborate, test ideas and share learnings, the development of sourcing guidelines or joint purchasing agreements, and guidance on ‘how to’ transition kitchens, especially around technology implementation or behavioral shifts amongst chefs.Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said, “This paper is a gamechanger for not only the industry but the entire global food system. It is a vital resource which will futureproof the industry and guide hotels in their sustainable food initiatives. Today the Alliance is issuing a ‘call to action’, for the industry to foster meaningful discussions and collaborations that will empower us to tackle this challenge and pave the way for a more sustainable future in hospitality.”Iberostar’s Global Sustainability Director - Innovation, Research and Destinations, Erika Harms continued: “Rethinking food in our industry is crucial—not just for cutting emissions, but for addressing its broader impact on nature and communities across the entire value chain. The responsibility for change is ours, and beyond improving infrastructure and procurement processes, we must collaborate to share best practices and adopt a destination-wide perspective. Only by doing so can we achieve the GHG reductions outlined in this paper while fostering social and economic prosperity. At Iberostar, we’ve already made great strides in energy transitions, waste management, and driving behavioral change, and are seeing clear business cases, but we’re just beginning to unlock the full potential of what we can achieve on a larger scale.”Jennifer Jordan-Saifi, Chief Executive Officer of the Sustainable Markets Initiative added: “I’m delighted to see this positive outcome of the Sustainable Markets Initiative’s Hospitality and Tourism Task Force. This groundbreaking white paper provides a roadmap for the hospitality sector to transform the global food system, reduce carbon emissions and protect Nature. I would like to thank our member CEOs for their leadership in advancing tangible solutions around emissions reduction, energy efficiency, food waste, plastics, circularity and biodiversity restoration. These efforts lay a foundation for others in Hospitality and Tourism, as well as in other industries, to help replicate and scale.”The Alliance looks forward to driving systemic change through its Supply Chain Impact Committee and its Accelerator programs.This report comes off the back of a landmark session at COP29, where the Alliance introduced its Universal Sustainability Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) during the first-ever joint session of Tourism Ministers and the COP Presidency. This initiative, part of the COP29 Declaration on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism, marked a transformative step for the hospitality industry, underscoring its pivotal role in addressing global climate challenges, enhancing economic sustainability, and driving sustainable consumer choices.The Alliance and Iberostar are hosting a webinar on 12th December 13:00 GMT and welcoming the industry to join them in celebrating this report and discussing next steps and action. To register for the meeting click here: https://zoom.us/j/99109942562IMAGE CAPTION: Iberostar’s Global Sustainability Director - Innovation, Research and Destinations, Erika Harms and Glenn Mandziuk, CEO, World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. - 12/4/2024
eviivo and Jervis Systems Announce Partnership
eviivo, the all-in-one Property Management System (PMS), has partnered with Jervis Systems, a leader in property automation technology, to streamline property control and elevate the guest experience for short-term rentals, vacation homes, and hotels.The integration enables property managers using eviivo to benefit from a fully automated, secure and centralised property access and automation management system that easily scales with growing portfolios.This added convenience, combined with eviivo's automated pre-arrival check-in instructions, enables property managers to provide a hassle-free journey for guests, from booking to departure.With Jervis Systems, reservation details can be seamlessly imported into the platform, automatically creating unique, time-sensitive SET® PIN codes for each guest. These codes activate at check-in and deactivate at check-out, enabling contactless entry while minimising security risks.In cases of last-minute reservation changes or cancellations, property managers using eviivo benefit from automated SET® PIN code updates or deactivations. This eliminates the need for manual adjustments and minimises the risk of unauthorised access.For guests, both convenience and security are top of mind during their stays. According to American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) 2024 survey, guests rank keyless entry and mobile check-in and check-out features as the second-highest priority when selecting a hotel (after high speed WiFi connection).For properties requiring regular access for cleaning staff, maintenance teams, or contractors, Jervis Systems SET® PIN codes ensure secure entry for staff while protecting guest privacy.Property managers using eviivo benefit from Jervis Systems’ centralised dashboard, which provides complete visibility and access control across all properties. The system scales effortlessly, enabling efficient access management as property portfolios expand.Beyond guest entry via PIN codes, the integration supports garage entry and smart device automation for locks, lights, switches, plugs, thermostats, hot tub and pool heaters, and more, allowing property managers to oversee multiple smart home functions from one platform. Property managers and guests can gain access property controls from the Jervis Systems mobile app or web app at AccessMyProperty.com (multi-language support is available).With eviivo and Jervis Systems, property managers can automate access, temperature, lighting, and other smart device functions across properties, reducing monthly utility costs and streamlining operations.Property managers report saving up to 10 hours a week per listing by eliminating manual or in-person updates, physical keys, and garage door remotes across their portfolio.Michele Fitzpatrick, CEO of eviivo, said: “Partnering with Jervis Systems allows us to provide professional property managers with a tool that really makes a difference, both for them and their guests. This integration means guests get a seamless, hassle-free check-in experience, and managers gain peace of mind with secure, automated access control. We’re excited to continue providing the added flexibility and control that property managers need to efficiently oversee properties in multiple locations, helping them deliver a great guest experience.”Bobby Varghese, Founder & CEO of Jervis Systems, said: "Our integration with eviivo means more property managers can scale their operations with greater ease. By automating secure access and smart device automation, we help managers deliver a modern, contactless experience that’s safe and convenient, which aligns with guests’ expectations for a five-star stay.” - 12/3/2024
Crumbl Partners With ezCater to Bring Its Iconic Cookies to Workplaces
ezCater announced a new partnership with Crumbl, the nation’s fastest-growing dessert company. Workplaces across the country can now order Crumbl’s fan-favorite cookies on ezcater.com and the ezCater app for meetings, celebrations, and everyday moments at work
A recent ezCater survey found that 76% of US workers enjoy small treats during work at least once a week and 30% indulge daily, with cookies as one of their top three treats. With ezCater's nationwide reach, Crumbl franchisees can now reach more high-value customers and further capitalize on the demand for treats in the workplace.
“Joining forces with ezCater will not only satisfy the cravings of workplaces but also give our franchisees new sales opportunities within their local communities,” said Grace Chadwick, Chief Operating Officer, Crumbl. “This partnership presents a tremendous opportunity for Crumbl to diversify and expand our off-premise channel by bringing our iconic cookies to new business customers everywhere."
Crumbl franchisees will have access to ezCater’s Catering Growth Platform, which is designed to help restaurants get valuable, incremental catering orders and manage their catering operations. The platform combines online ordering and catering management software with reliable delivery solutions and award-winning customer service.
“We know that Crumbl’s iconic pink box of cookies will be a hit in workplaces. In fact, in our recent survey, workers told us that cookies are one of their top 3 treats at work,” said Kaushik Subramanian, Chief Revenue Officer, ezCater. “We're excited to help this fan-favorite brand scale their catering operations, and reach workplace customers across the US.”
ezCater is making it easy this holiday season for customers to find holiday specials and gift items from popular restaurants for their workplace gatherings.
- 12/3/2024
Traverse Automation Launches HotelEase
Traverse Automation is pleased to announce the launch of HotelEase, an advanced platform designed to simplify and streamline inventory management for hotels. This solution directly addresses the challenges of manual updates and communication with channel partners, giving hotels a faster, more reliable way to manage availability, including critical stop and open sales updates, and ensure seamless, accurate information flow to all partners.
Managing inventory updates has traditionally been a time consuming process, often involving countless manual adjustments and inconsistent formats, which can lead to misunderstandings and booking errors. HotelEase aims to eliminate these challenges by providing hotels with a central platform that automates updates, allowing clear and consistent communication with channel partners.
What is included with HotelEase?
Hotels can set up their company within HotelEase, set up custom email templates, and easily manage contacts and mailing lists, ensuring that channel partners receive updates in a consistent, professional format every time.
HotelEase’s easy to use calendar allows users to manage stop sale updates using natural language, simplifying scheduling and significantly speeding up the process, whether for a single update or multiple adjustments.
With full control over communication, users can customise each email’s look and feel to ensure clarity across all channel partner communications, while HotelEase’s email monitor and dashboard offer real time visibility on inventory updates and track progress across all properties under management.
With HotelEase, hotels can now feel confident that their channel partners are always up to date with the latest availability, allowing teams to focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences rather than being weighed down by operational complexities.
HotelEase will be fully developed by 12th December, poised to transform how hotels manage their inventory and connect with channel partners.
Check out the video demo here: https://vimeo.com/1026071463
- 12/3/2024
Frank Santos to Lead Rosen Hotels & Resorts as New Chief Executive Officer
Rosen Hotels & Resorts announced that Frank Santos will be the company’s new Chief Executive Officer. A leading philanthropist in his own right, Santos’s promotion comes one week after Founder and President Harris Rosen’s death at the age of 85.
Santos is no stranger to Rosen Hotels & Resorts. In 1985, Harris Rosen personally recruited and hired Santos to become his trusted Chief Financial Officer (CFO), a job Santos started in January of 1986 and held for almost 39 years. Santos would later add vice president to his title as he and Rosen worked side-by-side growing Rosen Hotels & Resorts into a worldwide hospitality leader and the southeast’s largest independently owned hotel chain. Currently, the company has more than 4,000 associates and operates seven Orlando-area award-winning hotels: Rosen Inn International, Rosen Inn closest to Universal, Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando, Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista, Rosen Plaza, Rosen Centre, and the largest of all of the properties, Rosen Shingle Creek. Also under the Rosen umbrella are RosenSure, an insurance agency, Millennium Technology Group, multiple foundations and the Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center.
“It is an honor. I will always be grateful for the privilege to lead this great company that Mr. Rosen poured his heart and soul into building for 50 years,” Santos said. “I do not take this responsibility lightly, and I promise to continue the amazing work in our industry and in our community which Mr. Rosen started,” Santos added.
Santos and Rosen also worked together to form the Tangelo Park and Parramore preschool programs, which annually provide children from those underserved communities free preschool to get a head start on their education. After graduating from high school, students are awarded college and vocational scholarships covering tuition, room & board and books. To date, hundreds of students have received Rosen scholarships and the preschool programs have been lauded nationally as game-changers.
Santos also worked tirelessly with Mr. Rosen creating the award-winning RosenCare, a comprehensive healthcare program providing every associate amazing wellness benefits at affordable prices, with no deductibles and 90% of all prescriptions, including insulin, available at zero cost to the associate. He also helped Rosen with the formation of the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management, the Adam Michael Rosen Foundation and saved what is now the Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center twice from sure destruction.
Santos is well-known for his community service and his philanthropy, receiving the 2023 Kenneth F. Murrah, Esq. Award as Central Florida’s Outstanding Philanthropist. Santos currently serves on the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Board of Directors, as an Emeritus Board member for the Orlando Shakes and the Orlando Family Stage and as a Diman Bengal Foundation Board member. He has previously served on the boards of directors at the Orlando Philharmonic, Canine Companions, The American Cancer Society and Runway to Hope.
Santos has also earned Certified Hospitality Account Executive (CHAE+) and Certified Hotel Administration (CHA+) designations. He is also the past president of the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals ((HFTP) and has received the group’s Paragon award.
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