Latest news with #SigniabyHilton
Axios
30-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Axios
Gen Con gets bigger as tabletop gaming grows
The longest-running tabletop gaming convention in the nation is making a habit of shattering records. Why it matters: Gen Con, which has been held in Indy since 2003, has become synonymous with summer and is the city's largest annual convention. It was a driving force behind the city's expansion of the Indiana Convention Center and addition of a 38-story Signia by Hilton hotel after convention leaders warned the event was outgrowing Indy and needed more space. Gen Con has agreed to stay through at least 2030. Driving the news: When Gen Con opens its doors Thursday, it will mark the start of the biggest event in the convention's nearly 60-year history. Last year was its first-ever sellout, and officials started the week by announcing they did it again in 2025. It's also adding attractions as it adds attendees. This year will feature a record 595 vendors selling games, merchandise, costumes, art, books and more. By the numbers: Last summer, Gen Con drew more than 71,000 people and delivered an economic impact of $77 million. The big picture: The biggest Gen Con ever arrives amid a global gaming boom that started in the late 2010s as the rise of crowd-funding allowed more developers to get in the game and millennials took to tabletops to disconnect from their devices. The industry got another boost during the pandemic as families stuck inside searched for new ways to spend time together and entered the worlds created by brands like "Dungeons & Dragons" or "Warhammer" to escape. Research suggests that gamers who got into the hobby during lockdown are sticking around. What they're saying:"This incredible growth reflects the enthusiasm and increasing interest in the tabletop gaming community, and we are delighted to welcome thousands of attendees to celebrate our shared love for games," Gen Con President David Hoppe said in a statement. "Together, we are not just creating memories; we are shaping the future of this vibrant culture." Yes, but: Developers and publishers are bracing for a potential crash caused by President Trump's tariffs because many tabletop games are made overseas. Earlier this month, the Game Manufacturers Association reaffirmed its opposition to tariffs on toys and games. "These tariffs create unnecessary financial strain and disrupt supply chains critical to our industry," the association said in a statement. Zoom in: Although the show is a sellout, there is still plenty of fun to be had outside of the convention center.
Axios
28-05-2025
- Business
- Axios
Indy's Signia hotel, convention center expansion reach new heights
Construction crews are ahead of schedule on downtown's Indiana Convention Center expansion, the state's first Signia by Hilton hotel and another Georgia Street remix. Why it matters: Even before completion, city leaders say, the development has helped the region's surging hospitality and tourism industry secure new events while providing momentum to a post-pandemic initiative aimed at strengthening Indianapolis' urban core. The latest: The elevator shaft had been completed past the 25th floor of the 38-story Signia by Hilton, and CIB executive director Andy Mallon tells Axios the glass panels wrapping what will become Indy's tallest hotel should reach the 18th floor this week. Meanwhile, crews have started work on the second floor of the ICC expansion, crafting the space that will become the new Grand Ballroom. The plan to transform the west block of Georgia Street into a park-like setting and permanently close it to vehicular traffic from Illinois to Capitol is making progress and should be open in time for the NCAA Men's Final Four in April 2026. What they're saying:"It's almost $1.5 billion in investment in new projects just in that three blocks of Georgia Street alone," Mallon said. "It'll add 800 rooms of inventory to downtown, which is absolutely necessary." Mallon added the extra space will allow Indianapolis to host what he calls two "citywides," as in citywide conventions or events that sell out simultaneously downtown. State of play: Mallon said with the support of agreeable weather, crews are firmly en route to an anticipated completion date of late 2026 for the exterior hotel and convention center work. "The last floor of concrete will be poured probably in September, roof on in September or October. … And then dried in, we'll have everything sort of weathertight hopefully around Christmas," he said. Yes, but: The price tag on the roughly $500 million Signia has gone up. "The construction market has never been hotter in the state of Indiana," Mallon said. All the concurrent work in the region, including projects that share contractors and construction materials, means cost increases for those parts and labor. As a result, the CIB has invested an additional $70 million into the project to ensure it stays on track. Reality check: The Hogsett administration took over the funding of the hotel in May 2023 when the original developer, Kite Realty, was unable to secure private financing. Mallon said most of the convention expansion is paid for through tax increment financing funds, while the cost of the hotel itself is funded through hotel revenue bonds. Zoom in: The project also furthers the downtown resiliency strategy launched by Mayor Joe Hogsett's administration in 2022. The idea was to build a sturdier downtown on the other side of the pandemic through a combination of housing, recreational public space, economic development and connected infrastructure investments. Zoom out: Department of Metropolitan Development director Megan Vukusich said this development — along with projects like the Elanco World Animal Health HQ and the Cole Motor Campus — represents the heart of that effort. "It's really exciting to be now in 2025 and seeing the results of those efforts that began a few years ago. The Signia is a really good physical representation of the progress that's being made."
Barnama
21-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Duck Creek Technologies Kicks Off Formation '25 To Shape Insurance's Future
BOSTON, May 21 (Bernama) -- Duck Creek Technologies, the global intelligent solutions provider defining the future of property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance, today kicks off Formation '25, its flagship customer conference, at the Signia by Hilton Bonnet Creek in Orlando, Florida. Formation '25 will focus on how insurers lead, adapt, and innovate together to face unprecedented circumstances in the insurance industry. Formation '25 is a dynamic event featuring enriching content, extensive industry networking opportunities, and unforgettable moments.
Jordan News
14-04-2025
- Business
- Jordan News
Redefining Luxury Hospitality: Luca Crocco on Signia by Hilton...
اضافة اعلان Hilton's newest brand, Signia by Hilton, is making its first international statementand it's chosen Amman, Jordan, to do it. More than just a new hotel, this debut signals a bold reimagining of luxury hospitality in the region. At the center of the launch is Luca Crocco, a hospitality executive whose career spans nearly 30 years and three an exclusive interview with Jordan News, Crocco shared his vision for Signia by Hilton Amman, and why this opening marks a pivotal moment not only for the brand—but for the city General Manager of the property, Crocco isn't just overseeing an opening. He's laying the foundation for a hospitality philosophy built on elegance, precision, and a deeply personal approach to guest experience.'Launching Signia in Amman is more than just opening doors,' he told Jordan News. 'It's about redefining what luxury means to today's traveler—something elegant, smart, and created with intention.'This vision is woven deep into the brand's DNA. Signia by Hilton is designed to meet the demands of today's upscale business and leisure travelers—those who seek more than beautiful spaces. They want thoughtful experiences, seamless technology, and hospitality that understands who they International Legacy in LuxuryLuca Crocco's resume reads like a world tour of Hilton's most celebrated properties. From Hilton Prague to Hilton Glasgow, Hilton London St. Ermin's, Hilton Istanbul, and Hilton Visegrad, he's been entrusted with leading hotels through transformation—raising service standards, improving operations, and elevating guest satisfaction.'Luxury isn't static,' he explains. 'It evolves. Guests change. Their needs shift. And our role is to keep moving forward with them.'His approach is meticulous. At every property, Crocco has worked to anticipate change before it happens—shaping spaces that are not only beautiful, but also instinct for innovation made him the right choice for large-scale leadership. Before arriving in Amman, he served as Regional General Manager in Saudi Arabia, overseeing Jeddah Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Qasr Al Sharq—two of the kingdom's most prominent hotels. Combined, they offer more than 390 rooms and 34 suites, plus vast meeting venues capable of hosting events for up to 5,500 guests.'Managing hotels at that scale is about more than logistics,' Crocco says. 'You're orchestrating an experience for thousands of people. Every touchpoint matters.'Pioneering Moments: Cairo and DohaCrocco's leadership has been central to Hilton's regional expansion. He played a key role in the relaunch of Waldorf Astoria Heliopolis in Cairo—marking the brand's official entry into Africa. Shortly after, he oversaw the opening of AlRayyan Hotel Doha, the first property under Hilton's Curio Collection in the Middle East and hotels quickly earned international awards, cementing Crocco's reputation for excellence. But for him, success has never been measured by accolades alone.'Each of those launches was about more than filling rooms,' he says. 'They were about creating destinations—places people remember, spaces that become part of the city's identity.'The Birth of a New Brand in the Middle EastNow, Crocco brings that same energy, precision, and ambition to Amman—this time with a brand unlike any Hilton has launched before. Signia by Hilton was designed from the ground up for today's high-performance travelers: global leaders, creative minds, and modern professionals who want more than just luxury—they want a strong focus on the MICE sector—Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions—the hotel delivers an experience that balances business with lifestyle.'Signia is different,' says Crocco. 'We're not replicating an old model. We're building something new—tailored to people who expect seamless connection, elevated design, and smart service, whether they're here for a conference or a long weekend.'Amman, with its blend of modern infrastructure and deep cultural roots, made the perfect launchpad. As Crocco sees it, the Jordanian capital isn't just a beautiful setting—it's a city on the rise.'Jordan is increasingly seen as a destination for major regional and international events,' he says. 'We saw a real opportunity to bridge functionality and luxury—to offer something the market hasn't seen before, in a city that deserves the very best.'A New Standard for Events and ExperiencesSignia by Hilton Amman features over 11,270 square meters of flexible event space, including a next-generation convention center that can host up to 3,400 20 meeting rooms equipped with advanced audiovisual and lighting technology, the hotel is built to support events of every scale—from private board meetings to multi-day international conferences.'Our goal is to set a new benchmark for events in the region,' Crocco says. 'We've built a space where logistics meet inspiration, where business feels elevated.' Elevated Accommodations with a Personal Touch The hotel's 272 guest rooms and suites are designed for modern comfort, flooded with natural light and offering sweeping views of guests staying in Club Signia rooms and suites, the experience is even more refined, with exclusive amenities, private lounge access, and personalized concierge services. 'Luxury today is about personalization,' says Crocco.'We've designed spaces where every guest feels seen and valued, whether they're here for business, leisure, or both.'Dining That Reflects the City'sSpirit Culinary offerings at Signia by Hilton Amman are crafted not just for convenience, but for 962 Bistro, Barista & Bar blends café culture with contemporary flair, offering everything from handcrafted coffee to curated cocktails in the lobby's vibrant heart. Insignia, the hotel's all-day dining restaurant, presents global cuisine through live cooking stations and local flavors. For those seeking a relaxed evening, Luna Bar & Lounge offers a sleek setting with a creative menu of drinks and small Kyra Pool Bar & Grill brings a touch of the Mediterranean to Amman, with fresh, flavorful dishes served poolside amid live music and warm breezes.'Our dining venues are meant to stand on their own as destinations,' Crocco emphasizes. 'They reflect the energy of the city while offering something distinctly Signia.'Wellness, Entertainment, and BalanceIn addition to its robust business amenities, the hotel offers wellness experiences that cater to both body and mind.A state-of-the-art spa delivers custom treatments in a calming, contemporary setting. The fitness center is fully equipped for every type of workout, while the outdoor pool provides a tranquil escape above the city.A unique entertainment space includes bowling, billiards, table tennis, air hockey, and more—making the hotel equally appealing for families and Ahead: A Regional Landmark in the Making With the launch of Signia by Hilton Amman, Hilton isn't just opening a hotel—it's shaping the future of luxury hospitality in the Middle East. And with Luca Crocco leading the way, the brand is in steady hands. 'This is more than a project,' he says.'It's a vision. We're here to create something iconic, something that speaks to the evolving identity of Amman, and something that sets the tone for Signia's growth in the region and beyond.'
Jordan News
13-04-2025
- Business
- Jordan News
Luca Crocco on Redefining Luxury and Why Hilton Chose Amman First - Jordan News
Luca Crocco on Redefining Luxury and Why Hilton Chose Amman First Hilton's newest brand, Signia by Hilton, is making its first international statementand it's chosen Amman, Jordan, to do it. More than just a new hotel, this debut signals a bold reimagining of luxury hospitality in the region. At the center of the launch is Luca Crocco, a hospitality executive whose career spans nearly 30 years and three continents. اضافة اعلان In an exclusive interview with Jordan News, Crocco shared his vision for Signia by Hilton Amman, and why this opening marks a pivotal moment not only for the brand—but for the city itself. As General Manager of the property, Crocco isn't just overseeing an opening. He's laying the foundation for a hospitality philosophy built on elegance, precision, and a deeply personal approach to guest experience. 'Launching Signia in Amman is more than just opening doors,' he told Jordan News. 'It's about redefining what luxury means to today's traveler—something elegant, smart, and created with intention.' This vision is woven deep into the brand's DNA. Signia by Hilton is designed to meet the demands of today's upscale business and leisure travelers—those who seek more than beautiful spaces. They want thoughtful experiences, seamless technology, and hospitality that understands who they are. An International Legacy in Luxury Luca Crocco's resume reads like a world tour of Hilton's most celebrated properties. From Hilton Prague to Hilton Glasgow, Hilton London St. Ermin's, Hilton Istanbul, and Hilton Visegrad, he's been entrusted with leading hotels through transformation—raising service standards, improving operations, and elevating guest satisfaction. 'Luxury isn't static,' he explains. 'It evolves. Guests change. Their needs shift. And our role is to keep moving forward with them.' His approach is meticulous. At every property, Crocco has worked to anticipate change before it happens—shaping spaces that are not only beautiful, but also meaningful. That instinct for innovation made him the right choice for large-scale leadership. Before arriving in Amman, he served as Regional General Manager in Saudi Arabia, overseeing Jeddah Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Qasr Al Sharq—two of the kingdom's most prominent hotels. Combined, they offer more than 390 rooms and 34 suites, plus vast meeting venues capable of hosting events for up to 5,500 guests. 'Managing hotels at that scale is about more than logistics,' Crocco says. 'You're orchestrating an experience for thousands of people. Every touchpoint matters.' Pioneering Moments: Cairo and Doha Crocco's leadership has been central to Hilton's regional expansion. He played a key role in the relaunch of Waldorf Astoria Heliopolis in Cairo—marking the brand's official entry into Africa. Shortly after, he oversaw the opening of AlRayyan Hotel Doha, the first property under Hilton's Curio Collection in the Middle East and Africa. Both hotels quickly earned international awards, cementing Crocco's reputation for excellence. But for him, success has never been measured by accolades alone. 'Each of those launches was about more than filling rooms,' he says. 'They were about creating destinations—places people remember, spaces that become part of the city's identity.' The Birth of a New Brand in the Middle East Now, Crocco brings that same energy, precision, and ambition to Amman—this time with a brand unlike any Hilton has launched before. Signia by Hilton was designed from the ground up for today's high-performance travelers: global leaders, creative minds, and modern professionals who want more than just luxury—they want purpose. With a strong focus on the MICE sector—Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions—the hotel delivers an experience that balances business with lifestyle. 'Signia is different,' says Crocco. 'We're not replicating an old model. We're building something new—tailored to people who expect seamless connection, elevated design, and smart service, whether they're here for a conference or a long weekend.' Amman, with its blend of modern infrastructure and deep cultural roots, made the perfect launchpad. As Crocco sees it, the Jordanian capital isn't just a beautiful setting—it's a city on the rise. 'Jordan is increasingly seen as a destination for major regional and international events,' he says. 'We saw a real opportunity to bridge functionality and luxury—to offer something the market hasn't seen before, in a city that deserves the very best.' A New Standard for Events and Experiences Signia by Hilton Amman features over 11,270 square meters of flexible event space, including a next-generation convention center that can host up to 3,400 attendees. With 20 meeting rooms equipped with advanced audiovisual and lighting technology, the hotel is built to support events of every scale—from private board meetings to multi-day international conferences. 'Our goal is to set a new benchmark for events in the region,' Crocco says. 'We've built a space where logistics meet inspiration, where business feels elevated.' Elevated Accommodations with a Personal Touch The hotel's 272 guest rooms and suites are designed for modern comfort, flooded with natural light and offering sweeping views of Amman. For guests staying in Club Signia rooms and suites, the experience is even more refined, with exclusive amenities, private lounge access, and personalized concierge services. 'Luxury today is about personalization,' says Crocco. 'We've designed spaces where every guest feels seen and valued, whether they're here for business, leisure, or both.' Dining That Reflects the City's Spirit Culinary offerings at Signia by Hilton Amman are crafted not just for convenience, but for discovery. The 962 Bistro, Barista & Bar blends café culture with contemporary flair, offering everything from handcrafted coffee to curated cocktails in the lobby's vibrant heart. Insignia, the hotel's all-day dining restaurant, presents global cuisine through live cooking stations and local flavors. For those seeking a relaxed evening, Luna Bar & Lounge offers a sleek setting with a creative menu of drinks and small plates. Meanwhile, Kyra Pool Bar & Grill brings a touch of the Mediterranean to Amman, with fresh, flavorful dishes served poolside amid live music and warm breezes. 'Our dining venues are meant to stand on their own as destinations,' Crocco emphasizes. 'They reflect the energy of the city while offering something distinctly Signia.' Wellness, Entertainment, and Balance In addition to its robust business amenities, the hotel offers wellness experiences that cater to both body and mind. A state-of-the-art spa delivers custom treatments in a calming, contemporary setting. The fitness center is fully equipped for every type of workout, while the outdoor pool provides a tranquil escape above the city. A unique entertainment space includes bowling, billiards, table tennis, air hockey, and more—making the hotel equally appealing for families and groups. Looking Ahead: A Regional Landmark in the Making With the launch of Signia by Hilton Amman, Hilton isn't just opening a hotel—it's shaping the future of luxury hospitality in the Middle East. And with Luca Crocco leading the way, the brand is in steady hands. 'This is more than a project,' he says. 'It's a vision. We're here to create something iconic, something that speaks to the evolving identity of Amman, and something that sets the tone for Signia's growth in the region and beyond.' By Israa Radaydeh
