AAHOA

Franchising was built on a simple promise: brands provide the system, and owners provide the investment, with shared success in return.

But as the industry has shifted toward an asset-light, fee-oriented (ALFO) model, that balance is being reexamined.

In “The Brands Went Asset-Light. Your Costs Didn’t,” Sumit Dalwadi, DBA, draws from both his experience as an AAHOA Member and his doctoral research to unpack what this evolution means for hotel owners today—and why it matters now more than ever.

He also outlines practical steps owners can take, from understanding their true cost structure to using franchise agreements as active tools for negotiation and protection.

Read the full article in the July 2026 issue of Today's Hotelier. https://bit.ly/452c7DD

No one can tell your story better than you.

When AAHOA Members go to our nation's capital, they bring something no one else can: the real-world perspective of hotel owners.

Lawmakers need to hear directly from the people affected by their decisions. Whether it's taxes, labor, franchising, financing, or regulations, your voice helps shape policies that impact your business and the future of our industry.

Washington, D.C., needs to hear from you at AAHOA's National Leadership & Advocacy Conference.

September 15-16
The Royal Sonesta, Washington D.C., Dupont Circle,
2121 P St NW, Washington, DC 20037

Register now: https://bit.ly/4p2FiQo

Protect the revenue you've already earned 💡

Join us on Thursday, July 23, at 2 p.m. EDT for a Hotel Owners Academy session with Frank Mulcahy as he breaks down the Defensive Revenue Management Protocol™—and how to safeguard your business from today's biggest hidden threats, from AI fraud to operational risks.

Strengthen your strategy. Protect your profits.

Register now: https://bit.ly/4pmnOyr

The 2026 Northern California Hotelier Conference & Trade Show, co-hosted with the California Hotel & Lodging Association (CHLA), brought hotel owners together for a day of education, networking, and industry updates.

Attendees heard from industry experts, explored the Trade Show floor, and connected with fellow hoteliers throughout the day.

Thank you to Regional Director Ankit Panchal, the North Pacific Ambassador team, our speakers, exhibitors, and everyone who joined us for a successful conference.

The HOC Series is built on bringing hotel owners together to learn, share ideas, and strengthen our industry. We appreciate everyone who took part in making the day a success.

The next stop is waiting. Find your city at AAHOA.com/HOCs!

As America marks 250 years, AAHOA Mid Atlantic Regional Director Mahendra (MZ) Patel reflects on the values that connect hospitality and the American story.

"Here in the U.S., as hotel owners, we welcome guests from all backgrounds to our properties, and we have people of all backgrounds succeeding as employees."

From leading businesses to serving two terms as president of the Econo Lodge Franchisees Association of America (ELFA), MZ Patel's journey has been guided by service, problem-solving, and a commitment to putting people first. Shown is his first hotel.

"That's the story of the hotel industry, and it's the story of America."

Read more on reflections of members on this historic year in Today's Hotelier at https://bit.ly/4dCwqgc.