Latest news with #AdamHarris
Skift
02-06-2025
- Business
- Skift
Why Cloudbeds Built Its Own AI to Personalize Travel at Scale
Adam Harris of Cloudbeds is betting big on AI that actually understands hospitality. Ahead of the Skift Data + AI Summit, he shares why generic models aren't enough and what hoteliers must do to stay ahead. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Cloudbeds, Adam Harris has long been focused on how technology can help hotels deliver better, more connected guest experiences. Now, as AI redefines business and customer decision-making, Harris is leading one of hospitality's boldest experiments in sector-specific artificial intelligence. At the heart of Cloudbeds' strategy is a belief that generic AI tools simply won't cut it. For Adam Harris, AI isn't just about smarter pricing. It's about building a responsive, personalized ecosystem where technology doesn't just automate, it understands. Ahead of his appearance at the Skift Data + AI Summit, Harris shares how Cloudbeds is building AI that actually speaks the language of hotels, why hospitality needs to stop treating AI like a plugin, and how machine-readable supply is about to power the next booking revolution. How is your company thinking about AI as a tool to drive smarter, more personalized travel experiences? 'At Cloudbeds, we view AI as the key to unlocking personalized travel experiences at scale. However, AI must go beyond generic models to truly make an impact in the hospitality sector. Traditional AI systems were designed with general use in mind, lacking the deep understanding of industry-specific needs—especially in hospitality, where less than 0.004% of training data comes from our sector. This is where our approach differs. We've developed our own AI model—a causal-neural large language model (LLM) specifically designed for hospitality. For travelers, this means smarter pricing, better availability, and more seamless, personalized experiences tailored to their preferences and booking behaviors. For hoteliers, it means reducing guesswork and gaining more time to focus on delivering memorable stays. By designing an AI engine that speaks the language of hospitality, we help drive intelligent growth and free hoteliers to focus on what matters most: their guests.' What's one of the most exciting ways you're using data right now to make business or customer decisions? 'The days of fragmented, price-only revenue management are over. Traditional AI in hospitality often focuses on pricing with limited insight or accuracy, but we wanted to change that. Our new revenue tool powered by Cloudbeds Intelligence, Signals, analyzes over 4 billion data points every hour—from bookings to competitor rates, local events, and guest reviews. It processes this data to deliver forecasts with industry-leading accuracy at over 95%, up to 180 days in advance, along with smart pricing and marketing recommendations to fill demand days. By unifying revenue management, guest marketing, and operational insights in one cohesive system, Signals empowers hotels to act on the full picture. Rather than relying on a narrow focus on price, hoteliers can make data-driven decisions that optimize their entire business, creating a smarter, more responsive environment for both guests and staff.' What do you think the travel industry still gets wrong when it comes to applying AI? 'The biggest mistake the industry makes is treating AI as something you can simply 'apply.' AI is not a plug-and-play solution; it's only as effective as the data it's trained on. Most AI models available today weren't built with hospitality in mind, and with less than 0.004% of foundational AI data coming from the travel sector, it's clear that these models are often working with educated guesses rather than industry-specific insights. At Cloudbeds, we didn't just apply AI—we built it from the ground up, specifically for hospitality. Our AI is powered by a dual approach: a causal AI engine that processes billions of real hotel signals every hour, and a hospitality-specific LLM that's trained on millions of data points from hoteliers and revenue managers. This allows our system to not only analyze data but to truly understand and reason like a hotelier, delivering insights that are relevant and actionable.' Where do you see the biggest opportunities - or risks - for generative AI in your business? 'As AI agents and natural language models reshape how travelers search and book, the value shifts from who presents the options to who owns the options. Cloudbeds is uniquely positioned to feed this new discovery layer, powering direct connections, real-time availability, and dynamic pricing across emerging AI-driven platforms. If hoteliers act quickly to make their supply machine-readable and integrated, AI will amplify their business in ways that were previously unimaginable.' If you had to place a big bet on one AI breakthrough that could reshape travel, what would it be? 'The interface era is dead. We're witnessing the fundamental rewiring of hospitality through pure science. The companies still obsessing over polish while ignoring the algorithmic foundation are about to get obliterated. When AI agents take over more responsibilities (and they will), what happens to traffic patterns? Hotels, however, will still be there, still be full, just getting customers through entirely different channels.' Continue the Conversation with Adam Harris As the travel industry scrambles to adapt to generative AI, leaders like Adam Harris aren't just using AI; they're redefining it for their industry. His appearance at the Skift Data + AI Summit is a must-attend for anyone looking to understand how sector-specific intelligence is changing the rules of the game. Get Your Tickets 1 Person Solo Ticket $895 Buy Now 2-6 PeOPLE Group Tickets From $815 each Buy Now Who Is Already Joining The Skift Data + AI Summit This June Skift Data + AI Summit in New York City is fast approaching - take a look at who is planning to attend and add your company's name to the list. You won't want to miss this exciting global travel industry event. Read More
RTÉ News
12-05-2025
- Business
- RTÉ News
SuperValu and Centra's new charity partnership with DRS
SuperValu and Centra customers are being offered a new way to donate to charity through the country's Deposit Return Scheme. Customers returning cans and bottles at SuperValu and Centra stores will have the option to donate their deposit to the retailers' chosen charity partners. Up to €47m will be returned to SuperValu and Centra customers through the Deposit Return Scheme this year. SuperValu is supporting AsIAm, the country's autism charity, while Centra is partnering with the Irish Cancer Society. Up to €47m will be returned to SuperValu and Centra customers through the Deposit Return Scheme this year and more than 700 DRS machines between the two networks will be used. The campaign will be rolled out across 352 machines in the Centra network and 359 machines in the SuperValu network. The new initiative is being rolled out on an initial three-month basis with the two charity partners, and with SuperValu and Centra working with different charities throughout the year. Luke Hanlon, Managing Director SuperValu and Centra, said that the Deposit Return Scheme has been a success across SuperValu and Centra stores since the rollout last year. "This initiative gives our customers a simple and effective opportunity to support great causes while increasing awareness of the Deposit Return Scheme as a whole. We look forward to working with both charities to ensure the partnership reaches its fullest potential," he said. Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm, said that customers donating their DRS vouchers to AsIAm at SuperValu stores nationwide is a powerful way for people to show their support to make Ireland a more inclusive place for the at least one in 20 people in Ireland who are autistic, and their families. Averil Power, CEO, Irish Cancer Society, said the initiative is a really important and valuable partnership for the Irish Cancer Society.
Scoop
07-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Cloudbeds And STAAH Partner To Enhance Channel Management For Hoteliers
Press Release – STAAH The new integration will offer real-time data synchronization, centralized inventory management, enhanced reporting, and an improved guest experience supporting properties in driving revenue and operational excellence. Cloudbeds, the premier hospitality management software platform, has announced a strategic partnership with STAAH, a pioneer in hotel distribution technology. The partnership aims to equip hoteliers with advanced tools for efficient channel management. (Photo/Supplied) The new integration will offer real-time data synchronization, centralized inventory management, enhanced reporting, and an improved guest experience – supporting properties in driving revenue and operational excellence. Through the partnership, hotels utilizing Cloudbeds' industry-leading property management system will gain access to STAAH's cloud-based channel management solutions, improving connections with online travel agencies and expanding their direct booking capabilities. Adam Harris, CEO of Cloudbeds, said: 'Distribution strategy separates market leaders from the rest in today's digital landscape. Our strategic partnership with STAAH combines two best-in-class technologies to deliver what our customers need most: more online revenue opportunities and operational efficiency. Together, we're delivering unique solutions that help properties create exceptional guest experiences.' Tony Howlett, CEO of STAAH, added: 'Our vision at STAAH is to create a streamlined, interconnected hospitality landscape. By teaming up with Cloudbeds, we are taking a significant stride toward enabling hotels to harness data effectively, leading to quicker, better decision-making. This partnership is a testament to our dedication to revolutionizing hotel operations globally.' The joint effort will provide hoteliers with critical tools to streamline their operations and manage hotel distribution more effectively, enabling timely data-driven decisions and heightened guest satisfaction. About Cloudbeds Cloudbeds is the leading platform redefining the concept of PMS for the hospitality industry, serving tens of thousands of properties in more than 150 countries worldwide. Built from the ground up to be masterfully unified and scalable, the award-winning Cloudbeds Platform brings together built-in and integrated solutions that modernize hotel operations, distribution, guest experience, and data & analytics. Founded in 2012, Cloudbeds has been named a top PMS, Hotel Management System and Channel Manager (2021-2024) by Hotel Tech Report, World's Best Hotel PMS Solutions Provider (2022) by World Travel Awards, and recognized in Deloitte's Technology Fast 500 in 2023. For more information, visit About STAAH Headquartered in New Zealand, STAAH is a world-class hospitality technology platform helping its accommodation providers (hotels, motels & vacation rentals) to grow online bookings & revenue with a user-friendly platform to manage Online Travel Agents (OTA), direct bookings, and online reputation. Founded by Gavin Jeddo in 2008, STAAH partners with over 20,000 properties across 90 countries through its operations in New Zealand, Australia, India, UAE, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and the UK, and Europe offering exceptional service in the area of Channel Management, Booking Engine, Websites, Vouchers, Reputation Management & Global Distribution System (GDS). In 2024, the company was acquired by The Access Group, a global leader in business management software. Content Sourced from Original url
Scoop
07-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Cloudbeds And STAAH Partner To Enhance Channel Management For Hoteliers
Cloudbeds, the premier hospitality management software platform, has announced a strategic partnership with STAAH, a pioneer in hotel distribution technology. The partnership aims to equip hoteliers with advanced tools for efficient channel management. The new integration will offer real-time data synchronization, centralized inventory management, enhanced reporting, and an improved guest experience – supporting properties in driving revenue and operational excellence. Through the partnership, hotels utilizing Cloudbeds' industry-leading property management system will gain access to STAAH's cloud-based channel management solutions, improving connections with online travel agencies and expanding their direct booking capabilities. Adam Harris, CEO of Cloudbeds, said: 'Distribution strategy separates market leaders from the rest in today's digital landscape. Our strategic partnership with STAAH combines two best-in-class technologies to deliver what our customers need most: more online revenue opportunities and operational efficiency. Together, we're delivering unique solutions that help properties create exceptional guest experiences." Tony Howlett, CEO of STAAH, added: 'Our vision at STAAH is to create a streamlined, interconnected hospitality landscape. By teaming up with Cloudbeds, we are taking a significant stride toward enabling hotels to harness data effectively, leading to quicker, better decision-making. This partnership is a testament to our dedication to revolutionizing hotel operations globally.' The joint effort will provide hoteliers with critical tools to streamline their operations and manage hotel distribution more effectively, enabling timely data-driven decisions and heightened guest satisfaction. About Cloudbeds Cloudbeds is the leading platform redefining the concept of PMS for the hospitality industry, serving tens of thousands of properties in more than 150 countries worldwide. Built from the ground up to be masterfully unified and scalable, the award-winning Cloudbeds Platform brings together built-in and integrated solutions that modernize hotel operations, distribution, guest experience, and data & analytics. Founded in 2012, Cloudbeds has been named a top PMS, Hotel Management System and Channel Manager (2021-2024) by Hotel Tech Report, World's Best Hotel PMS Solutions Provider (2022) by World Travel Awards, and recognized in Deloitte's Technology Fast 500 in 2023. For more information, visit About STAAH Headquartered in New Zealand, STAAH is a world-class hospitality technology platform helping its accommodation providers (hotels, motels & vacation rentals) to grow online bookings & revenue with a user-friendly platform to manage Online Travel Agents (OTA), direct bookings, and online reputation. Founded by Gavin Jeddo in 2008, STAAH partners with over 20,000 properties across 90 countries through its operations in New Zealand, Australia, India, UAE, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and the UK, and Europe offering exceptional service in the area of Channel Management, Booking Engine, Websites, Vouchers, Reputation Management & Global Distribution System (GDS). In 2024, the company was acquired by The Access Group, a global leader in business management software.
Hospitality Net
06-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Cloudbeds and STAAH Partner to Enhance Channel Management for Hoteliers
San Diego, CA — Cloudbeds, the premier hospitality management software platform, has announced a strategic partnership with STAAH, a pioneer in hotel distribution technology. The partnership aims to equip hoteliers with advanced tools for efficient channel management. The new integration will offer real-time data synchronization, centralized inventory management, enhanced reporting, and an improved guest experience – supporting properties in driving revenue and operational excellence. Through the partnership, hotels utilizing Cloudbeds' industry-leading property management system will gain access to STAAH's cloud-based channel management solutions, improving connections with online travel agencies and expanding their direct booking capabilities. Distribution strategy separates market leaders from the rest in today's digital landscape. Our strategic partnership with STAAH combines two best-in-class technologies to deliver what our customers need most: more online revenue opportunities and operational efficiency. Together, we're delivering unique solutions that help properties create exceptional guest experiences. Adam Harris, CEO of Cloudbeds Our vision at STAAH is to create a streamlined, interconnected hospitality landscape. By teaming up with Cloudbeds, we are taking a significant stride toward enabling hotels to harness data effectively, leading to quicker, better decision-making. This partnership is a testament to our dedication to revolutionizing hotel operations globally. Tony Howlett, CEO of STAAH The joint effort will provide hoteliers with critical tools to streamline their operations and manage hotel distribution more effectively, enabling timely data-driven decisions and heightened guest satisfaction. About Cloudbeds Cloudbeds is the leading platform redefining the concept of PMS for the hospitality industry, serving tens of thousands of properties in more than 150 countries worldwide. Built from the ground up to be masterfully unified and scalable, the award-winning Cloudbeds Platform brings together built-in and integrated solutions that modernize hotel operations, distribution, guest experience, and data & analytics. Founded in 2012, Cloudbeds has been named a top PMS, Hotel Management System and Channel Manager (2021-2024) by Hotel Tech Report, World's Best Hotel PMS Solutions Provider (2022) by World Travel Awards, and recognized in Deloitte's Technology Fast 500 in 2023. For more information, visit About STAAH STAAH is a New Zealand-based technology company that specializes in cloud-based channel management and booking engine for accommodation providers helping them maximize their online revenue. Founded by Gavin Jeddo in 2008, a pioneer in the field of distribution technology, STAAH's industry-leading technology powers a property's distribution through Online Travel agencies (OTAs) and direct bookings. STAAH partners with over 20,000+ properties across 90 countries through its operations in New Zealand, Australia, India, UAE, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Middle East, the UK and Europe. View source
