By Kamalesh (KP) Patel, AAHOA Chairman (2025-2026)
We Built This Industry
Let’s cut to the chase: Hoteliers built this industry from the ground up. Whether operating an independent property or working within a brand, we’re the ones on the frontlines – connecting with guests, creating jobs, and serving our communities. Hospitality is not about buzzwords or flashy campaigns; it’s about people. We know our guests, remember their preferences, and solve problems on the spot. That’s what makes this industry thrive.
Travelers continue to look for consistency and authenticity. Some find it in branded properties, others in independents. What matters most is the service behind the stay, and that’s where AAHOA Members excel.
Our Competitive Edge
Here’s what sets our members apart: Flexibility and resilience. When a guest needs something special, we make it happen. When market conditions shift, we pivot quickly. When our communities need us, we step up without hesitation.
That agility carried us through the pandemic and is fueling our recovery today. While challenges mounted, AAHOA Members adapted. We became essential workers, safe havens, and community lifelines. We didn’t just survive – we showed the world what genuine hospitality looks like under pressure.
The Path Forward
Independence doesn’t mean isolation, and brand affiliation doesn’t mean conformity. At the end of the day, we all share the same goal: Delivering great experiences for our guests and building stronger businesses for our families. AAHOA exists to unite us because collective action amplifies individual strength. When we raise our voices together, we influence policy. When we share best practices, we all win.
The future belongs to hoteliers who can combine personal service with smart strategy. That’s us. That’s what we do best. And as an association, we’ll continue making sure our members – whether independent or brand-affiliated – have the tools, resources, and advocacy to stay ahead.
At AAHOA, we don’t just talk about hospitality. We live it, we lead it, and together, we carry it forward.
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