HITEC Dubai 2018, the Middle East's largest hospitality technology exhibition and conference, has opened a unique opportunity for startups to present their breakthrough business concepts at the show by participating in HFTP's expanding Entrepreneur20X (E20X) competition. The E20X start-up competition at HITEC Dubai will be held on Wednesday, December 5 from 11:50 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. and is open to all attendees.Competitors will receive fabulous exposure and validation from top companies by presenting their ideas to a room full of HITEC attendees, as well as a panel of expert judges including hospitality CIOs, angel investors, serial entrepreneurs and industry insiders. The winner, determined by the judges' panel, will be rewarded the opportunity to pitch at either the HITEC Europe or HITEC Minneapolis E20X competitions in 2019. This includes an exhibition kiosk in the E20X Innovation Lab, two full conference registrations at the corresponding conference, and extensive media coverage via HFTP's BYTES and Pineapplesearch hospitality industry news distribution networks.Frank Wolfe CAE, CEO of HFTP, said, "The E20X competition has been designed to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship while giving businesses the opportunity to become part of a global network at HITEC Dubai. We are eager to encourage and incentivize such experiments even if it is a work in progress and can be improved by others in the know. We believe it is critical to value innovation and disruption as we move towards the future driven by technology. And startups are at the forefront of this transformation."To qualify for E20X competition, the startup must be less than three years old, have at least a demo version of the product / service, should not have raised more than $100K of investments and have a hospitality solution.HITEC Dubai Advisory Council chairperson Laurent A. Voivenel, senior vice president of Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, "HITEC Dubai is a great platform and vehicle for startups to get the much-needed exposure and recognition by leading players in the industry. Large companies have the resources and the brand reputation, but it is the startups that are fostering major disruptions in our industry due to their innovative ideas and thinking. We are very excited to see those ideas emerge at HITEC Dubai which could possibly become the next big thing."HITEC Dubai will be inaugurated by Dubai Tourism and will give Middle East buyers, currently worth over USD 75 billion, access to the worlds leading technology solution providers and experts in the hospitality sector. Co-produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and Naseba, the two-day trade show will be held at the Madinat Jumeirah Dubai.

HITEC Dubai 2018, the Middle East's largest hospitality technology exhibition and conference, will be inaugurated by Dubai Tourism on 5th December 2018. The annual business-to-business (B2B) exhibition will give Middle East buyers, currently worth over USD 75 billion, access to the world's leading technology solution providers and experts in the hospitality sector.Commenting on the critical role technology is playing in driving tourism, Issam Kazim, CEO, Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM)stated, "Dubai is a global hub of innovation with the ongoing development of technology at the centre of our strategy. Disruptive technologies are creating new opportunities for our industry while reengineering the marketplace, and Dubai is at the forefront of capitalising on these emerging technologies to optimise travellers' journey. We will continue our focus on harnessing the power of data to redefine the customer journey whilst strengthening developments of advanced technology solutions as we invest in entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability that sets a new benchmark for global travel. As such, we are delighted to support HITEC Dubai as the tourism sector continues to lead the way when it comes to evolving technology."Dubai Tourism is the destination partner for HITEC Dubai 2018 that will feature regional and international case studies, thought provoking panel discussions and technology demonstrations from 70+ solution and service providers. Co-produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and Naseba, the two-day trade show will be held on 5th and 6th December 2018 at the Madinat Jumeirah Dubai.Frank Wolfe CAE, CEO of HFTP, said: "It's an honour to receive DTCM's endorsement to HITEC Dubai for the second consecutive year and have their CEO Mr. Issam Kazim lead the show's official opening ceremony. DTCM's support reemphasizes the government's commitment to transform the hospitality industry through proactive adoption of innovative and intuitive technology, and further position the UAE as a regional driver of innovation."Few industries have felt the impact of enabling technology like hospitality. HITEC Dubai's Advisory Council Chairperson Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, "Technology holds the key to a more advanced, sustainable and smart future which is revolutionising the hospitality sector like every other industry. Tech-savvy tourists are demanding more from hotels and therefore it is essential to give them the enhanced experiences they crave. Internet of Things, Cloud Technology, Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Blockchain, etc are all paving the way for the future of technology in the hospitality sector and HITEC Dubai will give be a great platform to see the latest developments transforming our industry."For more information or to register for HITEC Dubai 2018 visit https://www.hitec-dubai.com/ABOUT NASEBANaseba offers global business facilitation services. The company creates growth opportunities by bringing together people, partners and ideas. It helps clients raise capital, enter new markets, secure partners, close sales and educate workforces. Naseba's goal is to create opportunity and add economic value at every stage of its client's journey. It does this through three key areas: investor services, commercial services and leadership services. Since inception in 2002, Naseba has facilitated deals totalling billions of dollars for its clients. The company has connected over 100,000 global executives through more than 1,000 proprietary business platforms and is an expert in growth markets.About Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism)With the ultimate vision of positioning Dubai as the world's leading tourism destination and commercial hub, Dubai Tourism's mission is to increase the awareness of Dubai among global audiences and to attract tourists and inward investment into the emirate. Dubai Tourism is the principal authority for the planning, supervision, development and marketing of Dubai's tourism sector. It markets and promotes the Emirate's commerce sector, and is responsible for the licensing and classification of all tourism services, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. Brands and departments within the Dubai Tourism portfolio include Dubai Business Events, Dubai Calendar, and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), is currently accepting applications for participants and mentors for its Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) competitions in 2019. The start-up pitch competition for the most innovative, breakout hospitality technologies will be held twice next year: at HITEC Europe on April 9 and at HITEC Minneapolis on June 17. Those interested in either competing or volunteering as a mentor can apply via the E20X website.E20X competing companies will be selected from the field of applicants, who will then pitch their business concepts to a panel of expert judges as well as an audience of HITEC attendees and exhibitors. Prior to the pitching portion of the competition, participants will have the opportunity to meet with a team of mentors who will lend insights, expertise and guidance. The E20X judges' panel will determine the winner of the grand prize, the E20X Judges' Choice Award. Winners will be awarded EUR2,500 EUR at HITEC Europe and $5,000 USD at HITEC Minneapolis.Following the pitch competition, participating companies are able to meet with HITEC attendees to demonstrate their technology in a specially appointed area at the event. Attendees are given a chance to vote for their favorite and select their preferred pitcher to receive the People's Choice award, presented at the conclusion of HITEC.E20X mentor opportunities are available to industry professionals who would like to volunteer and share their knowledge with participants the day of the competition. Day-of mentors will meet face-to-face with participants in a series of pre-booked meetups hours before the E20X competition takes place sharing their experience, answering questions and making invaluable connections."Being an entrepreneur, running your own business, can be challenging in the sense that you are solely making decisions without the guidance of feedback," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "HFTP's Entrepreneur 20X event gives startups the opportunity to showcase their products, services and ideas in front of a global network of industry peers including investors, c-level experts and a judges' panel that is guaranteed to serve as a steppingstone on your path to success."The presenter application deadline for E20X Europe is February 9, 2019 with a EUR150 fee. The presenter application deadline for E20X Minneapolis is April 1, 2019 with a $250 USD fee.Coming next month is the third of three HITECs in 2018: HITEC Dubai on December 5-6, 2018 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. HITEC Europe is April 9-11, 2019 at the Palau de Congressos in Palma, Mallorca, Spain. HITEC Minneapolis is June 17-20, 2019 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.

The 2018-2019 Global Executive Committee and Board of Directors for Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) have officially begun their term at the start of this month. The association leaders represent a wide variety of segments within the hospitality industry, including: clubs, consulting, hotels, finance, technology and more. The HFTP Global Board volunteers its time and professional expertise to help guide and progress the association to the forefront of the industry as it carries out its strategic plan.The HFTP Global Board is the primary decision-making body of the association. Under its Board's vision, HFTP is able to expand its international reach and address the needs of the hospitality industry at large. The Board ensures the continuity of the association by planning for the future, establishing and reviewing major policies and programs that support the mission of the association, and by ensuring that the association is fiscally sound."The HFTP Global Board looks at the association's big picture strategic goals, and makes sure its current programs and initiatives align with these," said HFTP Global President Scot Campbell, CHTP. "It is an active time for HFTP as it expands its presence internationally and develops and updates industry resources. The Board pursues each of these initiatives only after determining whether they do serve to provide a source of hospitality finance and technology knowledge - HFTP's strategic goal."HFTP 2018-2019 Global Executive Committee members:President: Scot Campbell, CHTP, CTO, North American Concerts - LiveNationVice President: Michael Levie, CHTP, COO, citizenM HotelsTreasurer: Mark Pate Sr., CHAE, CHTP, MBA, Assistant Controller and IT Director, Highpointe Hotel CorporationSecretary: Neil Foster, CHTP, MBA, IT Consultant, Tech-Tonic Hospitality ServicesImmediate Past President: President: Timothy G. Nauss, CHAE, CFO, Macau Studio CityExecutive Advisor: Stephanie Anderson, CHAE, CPA, CGMA, CFO, River Bend Golf & Country ClubHFTP 2018-2019 Global Board of Directors:Director Toni Bau, Director of Finance, Portola Hotel and Spa Read her new director profile.Director Carson Booth, CHTP, CEO, SnapShot GmbH Read his new director profile.Director Cindy Braak, SVP Finance Business Partner, Marriott InternationalDirector Jill Burnett, CHAE, CPA, Controller, Medalist Golf ClubDirector Mark Fancourt, Co-Founder, Testbed.Vegas & TRAVHOTECH * Read his new director profile.Director Md Amirul Islam, CHAE, Assistant Manager of Income Audit, Marriott Autograph CollectionDirector Martha Mazzitelli, CAM, CHAE+, CHTP+, CFO, Bay Colony Shared ServicesDirector Nick Price, CEO, NetSys Technology LimitedDirector Laurie Rozeski, CHAE, MBA, CFO, Wildcat Run Golf & Country ClubDirector Justin Taillon, MBA, PHD, Professor and Department Head, Highline CollegeDirector Derek Wood, Managing Director, Derek Wood Associates LTDEx Officio Frank I. Wolfe, CEO, HFTPUpcoming this year, HFTP will continue to produce three Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conferences (HITEC). The largest is in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA on June 17-20, 2019; plus HITEC Dubai on December 5-6, 2018 and HITEC Europe in Mallorca, Palma, Spain on April 9-11, 2019. Other HFTP conferences include: Club Summit on March 11-12, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee USA; Club and Hotel Controllers Conference on June 17-19, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA; and the Annual Convention on October 23-25, 2019 in Orlando, Florida USA. The association will continue to promote its newsworthy, resourceful web series: HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP F&B Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP News - as well as its hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com.For more information on HFTP leadership and leadership opportunities, contact HFTP Executive Services Administrator Millicent Gustafson at millicent.gustafson@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-6449.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) members and hospitality industry professionals came together for education and networking at the HFTP Annual Convention last week. This year's convention was held from October 24-26, 2018 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA."The Annual Convention is an example of what HFTP does best, relevant knowledge sharing by its network of hospitality finance and technology professionals," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe, CAE. "This year captured that formula exceptionally, with an interesting program that brought attendees up-to-date on a variety of topics and exhibitors that demonstrated useful services and products."The event's education schedule offered attendees the opportunity to choose from 42 sessions on trending industry topics including: the evolving club, disaster planning and recovery, leadership, e-commerce, club accounting, ransomware, data security, hotel and club ethics, internal controls, and more. In traditional HFTP fashion, the Annual Convention featured two keynotes and a general session, attendee networking, and the Annual HFTP business meeting. In addition, 25 exhibitors with industry-related products and services were available to speak with the professionals in attendance.In conjunction with the convention, HFTP held its fourth-annual HFTP Helps program raising over $12,000 that week. Money raised will be donated to Louisville-area NAF programs, a national network of education, business and community leaders who work together to ensure high school students are college, career and future ready. Funds were raised through an online auction which offered a variety of items such as hotel stays and golf games. Also, an evening event hosted by the HFTP Greater Louisville Chapter brought in additional funds, with a portion of the entrance fee directed to HFTP Helps.Annual Convention also represents a time for HFTP to recognize outstanding achievement from individuals and HFTP chapters that embody the success of the association. Below were this year's industry-leading award recipients that were selected by a council of industry colleagues and peers.2018 CHTP of the Year: Sean Van Dyke, CHTP, IT manager at the St Julien Hotel and Spa2018 CHAE of the Year: Elijah Spiritoso, CHAE, controller at Frog Commissary2018 Paragon Award: Anna McFarland, CFE, CHAE, CHTP, CPA, finance consultant with Global Hospitality Consulting2018 Technology Hall of Fame: Tammy Farley, co-founder and president of The Rainmaker Group; Jing Zhu, founder and chairperson of the China Hospitality Technology Alliance (CHTA)2018 President's Award: Christopher Begley, CHTP, IT manager at Hotel Nikko San Francisco2018 HFTP Chapters of the Year: HFTP Monterey Chapter (Tier A: 1-35 members); HFTP Florida Manasota Chapter (Tier B: 36-70 members); HFTP Mid-Florida Chapter (Tier C: 71+ members)2018 HFTP Student Chapter of the Year: HFTP San Jose State University Student ChapterThe association's new 2018-2019 HFTP Global Board were installed during the event's HFTP Annual Tribute to Success evening, and Scot Campbell, CHTP assumed his role as the new HFTP Global President. Pictures from the event are now available in an online gallery.Dates are already set for the next two Annual Conventions: in 2019 it is slated for October 23-25 at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, Florida USA; and in 2020 it is slated for October 14-16 at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Owners Association recently signed a partnership agreement that will closely connect the two groups in building on the professional development opportunities for IHG Owners Association members, as well as expanding the scope of each other's resources."HFTP and IHG Owners Association are both dedicated to promoting hospitality education in a way that will help shape the future of our ever-evolving industry," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe, CAE. "The collaboration that comes with this partnership will support the success of both organizations through exchanging ideas and best practices."The two organizations are member-based associations which benefit from their networks' extensive knowledge base to develop and present educational opportunities, best practices and other resources. Through this agreement as allied partners, IHG Owners Association members will be able to draw from HFTP educational programs and resources to expand their member benefits."This new partnership will provide the IHG Owners Association with greater educational resources for our members, and incremental access to new opportunities in the area of hospitality finance and technology. We are looking forward to both organizations taking full advantage of this partnership, and HFTP coming on board as an allied member of the association," says Don Berg, IHG Owners Association CEO.About IHG Owners Association The IHG Owners Association, originally established by Holiday Inn founder Kemmons Wilson in 1955, was the first association of its kind in the hotel industry. It currently represents the interests of 4,500 owners and operators of more than 3,600 InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) properties in the United States, Africa, Asia Pacific, Canada, the Caribbean, Greater China, Europe, Latin America, Mexico and the Middle East. The Association is a voice for its members and plays an integral role in communicating with IHG leadership on issues related to franchised hotel operations. The IHG family of brands includes Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants, Hotel Indigo, EVEN Hotels, HUALUXE Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels and Resorts, voco, Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, avid hotels, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites. For additional information, visit www.owners.org.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) has purchased the copyright to the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI), a resource the association has been connected to since its origins. Widely used internationally, the primary purpose of the USALI is to offer operating statements formatted to provide hotel owners, managers and other interested parties with operational information pertinent to the lodging industry. The USALI was first published in 1926 and is currently in its 11th edition. The copyright was previously owned by the Hotel Association of New York City. The resource is published by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute, and HFTP has been a continuous sponsor and contributor to the publication.The USALI, 11th revised edition was released in January 2015. Revisions to the USALI are overseen by the Financial Management Committee (FMC) of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), a majority of which are HFTP members. Although the revision process will not change, HFTP plans to lean on its resources as an international organization to drive greater global adaptation."HFTP's goal is to be a source on finance and technology for the hospitality industry and owning the rights to the USALI, an essential resource used across the industry, aligns directly with this directive," said HFTP Global President Timothy Nauss, CHAE. "With the new ownership responsibility, HFTP will continue to prioritize the evolution of the guidance within the USALI to reflect the changing nature of the hospitality industry."HFTP's existence is due in large part to the establishment of the USALI, when the Hotel Accountants Association of New York met in 1925 to write and publish the book. From that point, the New York group and other state-centered hotel accounting groups moved to organize a national association. It eventually did in 1952 as the National Association of Hotel Accountants, now known as HFTP."The histories of the USALI and HFTP are intertwined, and I am confident HFTP as steward to the financial resource will maintain the USALI's relevance to the industry," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe, CAE.

Anna McFarland, CPA, CFE, CHAE, CHTP was selected as the 2018 Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) Paragon Award recipient for her unwavering support of the association and substantial contributions to increase knowledge sharing and promote growth in the hospitality industry at large. McFarland will be honored next month during HFTP's 2018 Annual Convention held at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA."I am honored to accept this award and to join the past recipients who I have long admired and respected," said McFarland.Based in the area of Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas USA, McFarland is an entrepreneur and global hospitality consultant that provides relationship-based, boutique-style consulting, internal audits, hotel opening / dispositions and training solutions to hospitality organizations worldwide. She is a global financial services veteran with 30 years of finance and performance management, fraud and compliance experience, derived from her tenure in public accounting, executive positions with high profile hospitality management companies / owners and consulting clients in the United States and internationally.McFarland served numerous leadership positions with HFTP on the global and local level. She served on the HFTP Global Executive Committee, leading as president from 2007-2008. McFarland also served on the board of the HFTP North Texas Chapter and was the chair of the HFTP CHAE Advisory and the Certification Advisory Councils.In addition to her leadership roles, McFarland contributed her expertise in hospitality finance to help develop the HFTP Global Hospitality Accounting Common Practices (GHACP), a searchable, online database of detailed operating financial reporting practices used at lodging properties around the world. She is a frequent university and conference speaker on fraud, ethics, management performance, strategy, innovation and collaboration for industry performance.Established in 1999, the prestigious HFTP Paragon Award recognizes individuals each year who have made a significant and lasting contribution to both HFTP and the hospitality industry. Paragon Award nominees can be HFTP members; representatives of industry-related associations, societies or trade publications; leaders from hospitality businesses, educational institutions and other related disciplines. A panel of industry experts selects the award recipients who will be recognized at HFTP's Annual Convention each October.Previous Paragon Award winners include: Alice Banks, CHAE (1999); Henry "Buddy" Weeks, CHAE (1999); Frank Santos, CHAE, CHA (2000); Katherine Cavanagh, CHAE (2001); Raymond Schmidgall, PH.D., CPA, CHAE (2002); Frank Wolfe, CAE (2002); Len Bartello, CPA, CHAE, CHTP (2003); John J. Cahill, CHA, CHTP (2004); Wendy Zurstadt, CPA, CHAE, CHTP (2005); Richard Braa, CHAE (2006); Robert Patasnick, CPA (2007); George Glazer (2008); Agnes DeFranco, Ed.D., CHAE (2009); Stephen LeBruto, CPA, CHAE, Ed.D. (2009); and Steve Doherty, CHAE, CHTP (2010); Frank Agnello Jr., CMA, CHAE (2011); Howard Field, FBHA, FCA (2012); Joseph McInerney, CHA (2013); Evelyn Adams (2014); Ralph R. Miller, CPA, CA, CBV, CHA, CHAE (2015); Raman (R. P.) Rama B. Com, CHA Emeritus, CHTP, CHAE (2016); Kris S. Shoemaker, CMA, CGFO, CHAE, CHTP, CPFIM (2016); Mary Gerdts (2017).Annual Convention 2018 will take place from October 24-26, 2018 at Omni Hotel Louisville in Louisville, Kentucky USA. Register to attend. For the latest news, follow HFTP/HITEC on HITEC Bytes, PineappleSearch, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube. For more information about HFTP events, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org, +1 (512) 249-5333. For more information on the Paragon Award, contact the HFTP Communications Department at publications@hftp.org or +1 (512) 249-5333.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit via the HFTP website. Read industry updates on the suite of HFTP hospitality news sites: HITEC Bytes, Club Bytes, Finance Bytes and HFTP News.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and Naseba are bringing back HITEC Dubai this year from December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. A regional extension to the world's largest hospitality technology conference brand, HITEC Dubai 2018 will feature 30+ speakers, 600+ hospitality stakeholders and 60+ solution and service providers. The show will give Middle East buyers - currently worth over USD 75 billion - access to global top solution providers in hospitality market through a top-notch education program planned by the expert HITEC Dubai 2018 Advisory Council, as well as an exhibition showcasing the latest in hospitality technology, and a summit with one-to-one business meetings.To plan HITEC DUBAI's educational program, an advisory council of experts with years of experience has been formed. The council's role is to discuss and design an agenda that is most relevant to the Middle East's challenges, needs and upcoming hospitality technology trends.The 2018 HITEC Dubai Advisory Council includes:Laurent Voivenel, SVP of Operations and Development for Middle East, Africa & India, Swiss Belhotel InternationalNeil Menezes, VP of IT, Dubai HoldingSanjay Nadkarni, Director Research and Innovations, Emirates Academy of Hospitality ManagementFerghal Purcell, COO, Hospitality Management Holding (HMH)Ajay Rathi, Group Senior IT Director, Meraas HoldingReda bin Abdoun, IT Director, Dur HospitalityNaveen Bharadwaj, Production Director, NasebaAtul Gupta, Regional Director of IT, Wyndham Hotels and ResortsSamir Hamadeh, General Manager, Alpha Destination ManagementMohamed Amirul Islam, President, HFTP Dubai ChapterMahmoud Kamal, Group CIO, Al Habtoor HospitalityNicholas Watson, Chief Digital Officer, NasebaFrank Wolfe, CAE, CEO, Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP)HITEC Dubai's Advisory Council Chairperson Laurent A. Voivenel, senior vice president of operations and development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, "HITEC, co-produced by HFTP and Naseba, is the world's largest hospitality technology show for hotels and we are delighted to participate in it. We operate in smart cities such as Dubai - hence our hotels need to be smart too. HITEC Dubai offers the perfect platform to know about the latest developments in hospitality technology based on the rapid innovations in the field and the specific needs of the Middle East region, especially Dubai, in order to keep up with the expectations of international travelers."In addition, HFTP has several other HITEC events coming up in 2019. HITEC Europe is April 9-11, 2019 at Palau de Congressos in Palma, Mallorca, Spain. HITEC Minneapolis is June 17-20, 2019 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HITEC Dubai Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place.Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of HITEC, will partner with Naseba, a business facilitation company, to bring the brand to Dubai. Making the event accessible to buyers from the lucrative Middle Eastern market, currently worth over USD 75 bn.The show will offer an education program and exhibits. In addition, HITEC Dubai will feature a summit with one-to-one business meetings that have become the hallmark of Naseba's platforms. Hoteliers attending the summit portion of HITEC Dubai will be pre-qualified to confirm their purchasing authority, budgets, timelines and solutions of interest.hitec.naseba.comAbout HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About Naseba Naseba offers global business facilitation services. The company creates growth opportunities by bringing together people, partners and ideas. It helps clients raise capital, enter new markets, secure partners, close sales and educate workforces. Naseba's goal is to create opportunity and add economic value at every stage of its client's journey. It does this through three key areas: investor services, commercial services and leadership services. Since inception in 2002, Naseba has facilitated deals totalling billions of dollars for its clients. The company has connected over 100,000 global executives through more than 1,000 proprietary business platforms and is an expert in growth markets.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) announces future dates for its Annual Convention, an event the association has produced since 1952. Next year's HFTP Annual Convention will take place October 23-25, 2019 at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, Florida USA. In 2020, HFTP will produce its Annual Convention from October 14-16 at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA. This year's HFTP Annual Convention will take place October 24-26, 2018 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA.The HFTP Annual Convention is one of many events the hospitality association produces each year, and has a program that provides topics of professional interest as well as celebrates the accomplishments of the association. Hundreds of hospitality finance and technology professionals will enjoy education, networking, exhibits, recognition, a black-tie optional dinner and much more. Registered attendees can earn CPE credits for attending educational sessions - the 2018 program offers up to 22 CPE credits. Also, it is tradition that HFTP's new Global Board is installed during the black-tie optional dinner known as HFTP Annual Tribute to Success."HFTP's Annual Convention represents a time for the organization to recognize outstanding achievement from individuals and HFTP chapters that embody the success of the association," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe, CAE. "The multi-day conference also offers keynote sessions, excellent hospitality education, social networking opportunities, black-tie events and a variety of other options for industry professionals who want to improve their job performance and organization."This year during HFTP Annual Convention, HFTP chose to support a local charity in the event's host city. The HFTP Helps 2018 online silent auction will direct its fundraising toward the HFTP Scholarship fund, and the money raised will support area hospitality, finance and technology centered education programs overseen by NAF. Item donations for the silent auction are now being accepted, and the online silent auction is now open and available to all who wish to bid on items such as hotel stays, dinners and more.Online registration is open for this year's Annual Convention 2018 in Louisville, Kentucky USA. Register by September 26, 2018 to receive the early registration rates. Visit the Annual Convention page on the HFTP website for complete information about all conference events, including the program schedule, hotel and travel details and more. For more information about HFTP's Annual Convention and other global activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

The "Why Join HFTP" video contest is designed to give HFTP members the chance to explain why they are passionate about HFTP. Team up with three to five HFTP members and create a 30-120 second video explaining why you are passionate about HFTP. The winning team will receive $1,000 USD, and their video will be shown at the 2018 HFTP Annual Convention this October. Video entries will be accepted starting on September 6, 2018 and ending December 1, 2018. All online entries must be received by October 15, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. CST to be eligible to win the Grand Prize.Contest Overview:Who Can Participate?The "Why Join HFTP" Video contest is open to all HFTP members. HFTP staff and HFTP Board of Directors or family members of HFTP Staff and HFTP Board of Directors are not eligible to participate in the Contest.Date of ContestVideo entries will be accepted starting on September 6, 2018 and ending October 15, 2018. All online entries must be received by October 15, 20183:00 p.m. CST to be eligible to win the Grand Prize.PurposeThe purpose of this competition is to highlight all the amazing things HFTP membership offers. So "Why Join HFTP" can be any positive reason your team has for encouraging membership. Here are some examples, but keep in mind that there are so many ways to show why hospitality professionals should join HFTP.PrizeThe winning team's video will be selected by a committee of HFTP representatives. Winning team will receive $1,000.00 USD. Video will be shown at the HFTP 2018 Annual Convention.How to Enter:Get with 3-5 HFTP members and create a team. Teams must be no smaller than 3 people, and no larger than 5 people.Choose a clever team name.Create a video with a theme of "Why To Join HFTP". For example, how has HFTP changed your career, things HFTP offers its members, etc.Video must be submitted to the submission form via link through a page of your choice (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.).Video length must be between 30 and 120 seconds.Agree to contest Terms and Conditions (see below).Upload your video to the submission form here.Contest Terms and ConditionsFor full contest terms and conditions, click here. The entry must fulfill all contest requirements, as specified, to be eligible to win a prize. Attendees may enter only once. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Twitter, Vimeo, YouTube, Instagram or Facebook.Questions?Please contact Millicent Gustafson at Millicent.Gustafson@hftp.org or Melissa Trevino at Melissa.Trevino@hftp.org.Share the contest with a colleague with this flyer.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and Hospitality Technology Next Generation (HTNG) announced during Hospitality Upgrade's Annual CIO Summit that they established a partnership geared toward strengthening the progression of the technology in the hospitality industry. The agreement is based on both organizations' desire to use each group's complementary strengths and resources to advance technology in the hospitality and travel industries."For years, HFTP and HTNG have worked in parallel in support of the hospitality technology industry," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Each organization has made great progress toward bringing the community together to establish education, standards, best practices and resources. Recognizing that working closer together would better serve the industry, the leadership of HTNG and HFTP has formed this partnership."The two organizations are member-based nonprofits which draw from their volunteers' extensive knowledge bases to develop and present educational opportunities, industry standards, best practices and other resources. Through this agreement, HFTP and HTNG will cross-promote the programs of each organization to maximize the benefits and impacts of these efforts."HTNG and HFTP have played important roles in advancing technology in the hospitality and travel industry. With similar, but complementary missions, this partnership will bring the organizations closer together and codify the informal cooperation that has existed since HTNG's founding 16 years ago," said Mike Blake, CEO of HTNG.The partnership establishes a corresponding presence within each organization's events and activities. The groups will promote each other's events on online calendar listings and news sites; as well as support each group's programs, including HFTP certifications and the HTNG Workgroups. Also, both HFTP and HTNG will invite leadership representatives from the other organization to participate in events, programs and advisory councils.One of the first things the two organizations have agreed to do is to resurrect the Hospitality Technology Strategic Initiatives Council, co-founded by HFTP and HTNG in 2009. The council was composed of senior-level, industry leaders and related hospitality/travel associations to discuss pressing industry needs as they relate to hospitality technology. The council will work to identify industry initiatives and will determine the best possible home for these initiatives to reduce duplication efforts.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) will honor Elijah Spiritoso, CHAE as the 2018 Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) of the Year at its upcoming Annual Convention this October. The CHAE of the Year award honors the individual that scored the highest on the CHAE certification exam within a given year. HFTP's Annual Convention will be held from October 24-26, 2018 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA - online registration is open now.Spiritoso started in hospitality as a busboy for a local Philadelphia restaurant, and then became a server at the downtown Hilton Garden Inn in Philadelphia while in high school. Spiritoso graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia with a Bachelor's in Business Administration, where he was a finance major. He continued to work as a food server in both a-la-carte and banquets, working for many well-known restaurants, caterers and hotels in the area. One Five-Diamond rated hotel, The Rittenhouse, became Spiritoso's main employer, until one day he was offered a position to become the hotel's new income auditor. He was quickly promoted - based on his ability to automate and streamline processes - to condominium accountant then to staff accountant, working directly under the CFO. After many years, he became a controller for GF Management, then a restaurant group. Spiritoso now works as the controller for Frog Commissary, the exclusive in-house food provider for The Franklin Institute."The CHAE certification was very helpful in obtaining my new position, as it showed my willingness to continue to stay educated on the fundamental industry knowledge," said Spiritoso. "Employers need to trust accountants at the executive level, so being a CHAE gives added confidence that I am managing the business properly and staying continually educated on the latest industry trends. Every hospitality accounting professional would greatly benefit from studying and retaining the knowledge covered while obtaining a CHAE - it shows that you are a true professional that is serious about your career and future."I would like to personally thank everyone at HFTP that worked hard to make the CHAE certification possible, and a special thanks to HFTP Certification Manager Robin Bogdon for guiding me through the process," Spiritoso continued. "I also want to thank all of the other CHAEs out there every day working hard to represent the ideals of the certification. I am truly humbled and honored to be the CHAE of the year and will wear the honor with pride throughout my entire career."The CHAE professional designation is an industry designation showing competency in the area of accounting, and is acknowledged throughout the hospitality industry as it elevates the professionalism of both the recipient and the industry. More than 1,500 hospitality accountants, from several countries, have earned the CHAE designation through HFTP since the certification program began in 1981. A new CHAE exam is now available, and features a more global finance focus. HFTP also administers the examination and awards the Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP).For more information on HFTP's certification programs (CHTP and CHAE), please contact HFTP Certification Manager Robin Bogdon at Robin.Bogdon@hftp.org. For immediate information, visit the FAQ pages for both CHTP and CHAE certifications.HFTP has upcoming events around the world. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6, 2018 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. HITEC Europe will take place April 9-11, 2019 at Palau de Congressos in Palma (Mallorca) Spain. HITEC Minneapolis will take place June 17-20, 2019 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

Frank I. Wolfe, CEO for Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), was recognized as Most Influential Association CEO 2018 in Hospitality by the European-based corporate finance publication Acquisition International (AI). Published by AI Global Media, AI is a monthly magazine that seeks to inform and shape the global corporate conversation through a combination of high quality editorial rigorous research and an experienced and dedicated worldwide network of advisors experts and contributors."This is truly an honor, but is really a testament to our talented staff as well as the HFTP Global Board of Directors and our Executive Committee. The past few years have been marked by significant progress for HFTP, as we have established long-planned events that place us as an internationally influential organization. This honor is a notable recognition for all the efforts we have put in," says Mr. Wolfe. "We have also made available our signature services such as quality education and resources to the global hospitality finance and technology community. I am proud that our efforts have been recognized by such an esteemed publication, but I also know that we have much more to accomplish."Recipients of the brand new honor are internally researched, shortlisted, judged and selected. The publication's in-house research team looks into the global industry thoroughly in order to determine those most deserving of the accolade. Some factors the team takes into consideration include the nominee's significant achievements over the past calendar year, company and career profile, commitment towards innovation and company performance under the individual's leadership.Wolfe has been with HFTP since March 1991, and assumed the CEO position in 1994. He has overseen the positive evolution and growth of the association. Under Wolfe, HFTP has made a number of bold moves towards global expansion, new club conferences, and many organized clusters of members around the world. In 2017, HFTP also expanded its Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), the largest hospitality technology conference brand in the world with two additional events in Europe and Dubai, in addition to its annual North American event. He also spearheaded the hospitality-specific search site Pineapplesearch.com and HFTP news sites, topic specific sites for hospitality finance, technology, club, food and beverage, GDPR and the HFTP association.To read more about Frank Wolfe, including articles he has written, visit his bio page on the HFTP web site. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) has opened online registration for its Annual Convention, which it has produced since 1952. Following the traditional event format, the event will offer a variety of educational sessions, networking and vendor opportunities. HFTP has secured two keynote speakers who will discuss topics relating to productivity, engagement, collaboration and communication in the workplace: Colette Carlson and Curt Steinhorst. The HFTP Annual Convention will take place from October 24-26 at the brand new Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA.HFTP Annual Convention full registration attendees will have access to three days of education, two days of table top exhibits, a Welcome Reception and a formal HFTP Tribute to Success dinner and dance. The 2018 schedule of events is available on the HFTP website, and will be continuously updated until the event. Additionally, Annual Convention will feature a business meeting and the HFTP Helps Silent Auction benefiting the HFTP Foundation during the HFTP Tribute to Success. The HFTP Greater Louisville Chapter will also host a social night event on October 25, 2018 at the Kentucky Derby Museum to support the HFTP Helps fundraiser."HFTP is excited to host Annual Convention in Louisville, Kentucky this year," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Annual Convention is created specifically with our association's members best interests in mind - join us this October for hospitality education, networking, exhibits, vendor interaction, fundraising, fun social events and more."The dynamic event program will provide relevant industry information for hospitality professionals. Vendor interaction this year will allow attendees to meet with participating companies at table top exhibits. Exhibits will be open to attendees on Wednesday evening during the Welcome Reception, as well as during breaks and lunch on the following Thursday.Visit the Annual Convention page on the HFTP website for complete information about all conference events, including the program schedule, hotel and travel details and more. For more information about HFTP's Annual Convention and other global activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org.Coming up, HFTP's Florida Regional Conference will take place July 25-27, 2018 at the Sarasota Westin in Sarasota, Florida USA - immediately followed by HFTP's inaugural Club Forum which will take place July 28, 2018 at the same location. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is excited to announce that three new, local chapters have recently been chartered: HFTP Greater Louisville Chapter, HFTP New York University Student Chapter and HFTP Kansas State University Student Chapter. HFTP chapters provide a wide array of benefits to an association's membership -- not the least of which is the collaborative building of knowledge and camaraderie among local and like-minded industry professionals.HFTP's local chapters help industry professionals in the area expand their network, increase educational opportunities and build strong face-to-face connections with peers. Moreover, HFTP chapters give association members support, tools and resources to advance in their hospitality career."We are pleased to welcome these three new chapters to HFTP," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "HFTP is determined to efficiently serve its members across the globe, so we are excited to provide more expanded networks in additional local areas."HFTP currently has more than 76 local chapters providing opportunities for networking and education throughout the world. HFTP members can attend chapter meetings to connect with their local network of HFTP members and share solutions with professionals in the community. Chapters hold regular educational and social meetings, as well as participate in projects to benefit area charities.HFTP's Greater Louisville Chapter is currently is led by: Chapter President Joshua Bergen, CHAE, CHTP, controller at VENZA; Chapter Vice President Deuce Sapp, CIO at Al J. Schneider Company; Chapter Treasurer Ashley Barke, senior tax manager at MCM CPAs & Advisors; Chapter Secretary Paul West, hospitality technology consultant at Technical Solution Services.HFTP's New York University Student Chapter is currently is led by: Chapter President Hartanto Yuwo, CHIA, student at New York University; Chapter Vice President Harini Premnath, student at New York University; Chapter Treasurer Xinyi Zhu, student at New York University; Chapter Secretary Yixuan Li, student at New York University; Chapter Faculty Adviser Recep "Richie" Karaburun, clinical assistant professor at New York University.HFTP's Kansas State University Chapter is currently is led by: Chapter President Neda Shabani, student at Kansas State University; Chapter Vice President Prasanna Kansakar, student at Kansas State University; Chapter Treasurer Vahid Behzada, student at Kansas State University; Chapter Secretary Dalton Hahn, student at Kansas State University; Chapter Faculty Adviser Arslan Munir, Ph.D., assistant professor at Kansas State University.For more information about HFTP chapters, visit www.hftp.org. For more information about HFTP's new chapters, read this blog on HFTP Connect.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is hosting its inaugural HFTP Club Forum on July 28, 2018 at the Sarasota Westin in Sarasota, Florida USA - immediately following HFTP's Florida Regional Conference that is taking place from July 25-27, 2018 at the same location. HFTP's Club Forum is an executive-level event designed to provide club professionals with the opportunity to connect with industry peers, share ideas and discuss hot topics.The invitation-only event will be facilitated by Dr. Larry Ross, emeritus professor and former Anne and Bill France Distinguished Professor of Business in the Barney Barnett School of Business and Free Enterprise at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida. The focus of this year's event is the Uniform System of Financial Reporting for Clubs. Attendees will have the opportunity to discuss the strengths and weaknesses, as well as, suggest changes and additions for the upcoming revised version."HFTP is excited to host this executive-level event for club professionals," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Designed with intent to explore pressing industry issues, the HFTP Club Forum will serve as another great networking and educational opportunity for its club attendees."Attendees will be able to earn up to eight hours of continuing education credits at the HFTP Club Forum - a link for the CPE reporting will be provided at the conference.Online registration is open for the HFTP Florida Regional Conference, which precedes the HFTP Club Forum. HFTP is no longer accepting applications to register to attend the HFTP Club Forum. In addition, HFTP has several upcoming events. The HFTP Annual Convention is October 24-26, 2018 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. And HITEC Europe is April 10-11, 2019 at Palau de Congressos in Palma (Mallorca) Spain. HITEC Minneapolis is June 17-20, 2019 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA.For additional information about HFTP Club Forum, contact Linnet Baskett, director of club engagement & regionals at HFTP. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is pleased to announce that HITEC Houston broke barriers this week as the highest attended event in the association's history with over 6,650 attendees. Produced yearly by HFTP, Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) showcases the industry's latest innovations, and provides a top-notch education program for attendees. HITEC Houston took place from June 18-21, 2018 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA.HITEC Houston featured over 120 speakers, including futurist Mike Walsh and data security expert Theresa Payton as the keynote speakers. The daily education sessions addressed trending topics including: data security, IT initiatives, sustainability and CSR, AI, leadership development, blockchain, millennials reshaping the industry and more. The Houston exhibit floor featured 397 exhibitors showcasing the latest in hospitality technology products and services. An impressive 47 registered press members were in attendance covering the event."Thank you to everyone who helped make HITEC Houston a huge success," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "HITEC Houston was not only the highest attended HITEC conference to date, but it was also the highest attended overall conference in HFTP's 65-year history. HFTP looks forward to continuing to serve the hospitality technology community in years to come. See you next year in Minneapolis!"The Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) Houston innovation competition for hospitality startups featured 16 startups, an expert panel of six judges and 16 industry mentors who coached the entrepreneurs before their four-minute pitch. Reply.ai won the E20X Judge's Award grand prize of $5,000 USD, and Beekeeper was chosen by conference attendees - via the HFTP Multi-event app - as the E20X People's Choice Award winner. The HITEC Houston Opening Party, presented by Samsung and HFTP, featured multi-platinum rapper Flo Rida and took place at the famous House of Blues Houston.Three hospitality technology industry leaders were recognized and awarded at HITEC Houston: 2018 HFTP International Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame recipients Tammy Farley and Jing Zhu; and 2018 CHTP of the Year recipient Sean Van Dyke, CHTP. HFTP also hosted its annual HITEC Helps social responsibility project during HITEC Houston, and raised funds for local nonprofit Compudopt - who provides technology access and education to underserved youth.Attendees with access to the HFTP Multi-event app can use it to refer back to the attendee list and exhibitors to follow-up on the event. HITEC Minneapolis is June 17-20 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA. In addition, HFTP has several other coming events. The HFTP Annual Convention is October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. And HITEC Europe is April 10-11 at Palau de Congressos in Palma (Mallorca) Spain. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout North America, HFTP expanded HITEC in 2017 with two additional events outside: one in Europe and the other in Dubai. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org.Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

As HITEC Houston wraps up its biggest week, plans for next year's North American event in Minneapolis are already in the works. New to the program is a Women in Technology networking luncheon designed to connect professionals and honor industry accomplishments. HITEC (Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference), produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology event and is dedicated to recognizing those guiding the forward path of hospitality technology. The inaugural luncheon will be June 17, 2019 at the Minneapolis Convention Center, and will feature an accomplished business leader speaker. Following the initial luncheon will be additional regional programs throughout 2019."A primary reason that HITEC attendees return year after year is the opportunity to meet with fellow industry professionals to share their ideas and learn from each other," said Frank Wolfe, HFTP CEO. "The addition of the luncheon offers a dedicated opportunity to celebrate the successes of the professional women who have focused their careers to hospitality technology. Hopefully the program will continue in successive years and will be a place to follow the evolution and progress of the industry and the women's careers."HITEC Minneapolis is June 17-20 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA. In addition, HFTP has several other coming events. The HFTP Annual Convention is October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. And HITEC Europe is April 10-11 at Palau de Congressos in Palma (Mallorca) Spain. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout North America, HFTP expanded HITEC in 2017 with two additional events outside: one in Europe and the other in Dubai. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org.Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

From the conference perspective, HITEC Europe's education program has received superior feedback each year. To accommodate for an overall modification of the event, there will be adjustments across all elements. This includes a reworking of the conference schedule to allow exclusive education hours and exclusive exhibit stand hours. As education is a key element to an event like HITEC Europe, the program planners will also provide access where possible to exhibitors and their staff, a frequent request made by exhibitors. Also, to provide the high-level networking and education opportunities for CIO/CFO delegates, invitation-only sessions during the conference and a private networking dinner will be incorporated into the schedule for this group.To build on the event, making it a hub of hospitality education and innovation, HFTP will continue to host co-located partner events at the Palau de Congressos, including HSMAI Region Europe and Entrepreneur 20X, a start-up pitch competition."One thing that was very clear from our evaluations, is that attendees want to make sure that HFTP continues to maintain the superior level of education offered and that we do not change our philosophy to a for-profit, 'pay to play' model," said Frank Wolfe, HFTP CEO. "As a not-for-profit organization, HITEC Europe has a dedicated group of industry experts who donate their time to both create and vet the education quality and HITEC Europe will continue that system."From the exhibition perspective, HFTP will make several logistical changes. These include requiring a higher service level from those who service stands, more food and beverage inside the exhibition, an easier registration processes and allowing exhibitors increased access to their stands for private appointments. Exhibition stand selection for HITEC Europe 2019 will be held in the same order as it occurred during the Amsterdam selection process.From a location prospective, evaluations indicated that attendees wanted the event to move around Europe. After consulting with HFTP partners, HSMAI, it was decided to locate the events at Palau de Congressos in Palma (Mallorca) Spain, the two year old center managed by Melia Hotels and located in one of the most beautiful resort areas in Europe. https://www.melia.com/es/palau-de-congressos/home.htmlhttps://www.melia.com/es/palau-de-congressos/home.htmlFor more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout North America, HFTP expanded HITEC in 2017 with two additional events outside: one in Europe and the other in Dubai. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org.Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), is pleased to announce its Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) sponsorship agreement with Amadeus for HITEC Houston. The successful E20X pitch competition, featuring hospitality technology startups, will take place at HITEC Houston in the afternoon on June 18, 2018. HITEC Houston will take place from June 18-21, 2018 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA.HFTP's Entrepreneur 20X program is a pitch competition that provides hospitality technology start-ups a career-boosting opportunity with exposure to top industry mentors, investors, leaders and executives. The startups compete for a cash prize, two separate awards and much more in this thrilling competition series. HITEC Houston attendees may visit startups following the competition in the HITEC Houston exhibit hall at the Innovation Lab."HFTP is excited for our partnership with Amadeus for this year's Entrepreneur 20X at HITEC Houston," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Entrepreneurship plays an important role in fueling evolution to industries, and Amadeus supports this innovative spirit in the hospitality technology market by providing hospitality solutions for every stage of the consumer journey.""We are thrilled to support the competitors at E20X and see the newest ideas that can help shape the future of hospitality," said Hazem Hussein, Hospitality Division CEO at Amadeus. "Through our Amadeus Ventures Program, we have assisted over 1,200 early stage startups. By creating these mutually beneficial relationships, we bring innovate solutions to the industry."Amadeus develops open, cloud-native technology solutions for global hospitality organizations. From search and booking to check-in and departure, Amadeus's offerings help consumers improve efficiency, deliver exceptional experiences and exceed brand promise. Amadeus works with leading referral and reseller partners, technology companies, channel and lead generation organizations, as well as hospitality and academic institutions with one goal: to put customer needs first.For more information about E20X, email e20x@hftp.org. In addition to HITEC Houston, HFTP has several other events upcoming in 2018. HFTP Annual Convention will October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About AmadeusAmadeus is a leading provider of advanced technology solutions for the global travel industry. Customer groups include travel providers (e.g. airlines, hotels, rail and ferry operators, etc.), travel sellers (travel agencies and websites), and travel buyers (corporations and travel management companies). The Amadeus group employs around 15,000 people worldwide and does business in more than 190 countries. The company has central sites in Spain (corporate headquarters), France (development) and Germany (operations), and offices in 70 countries around the world. The group operates a transaction-based business model. Amadeus is listed on the Spanish Stock Exchange under the symbol "AMS.MC" and is a component of the IBEX 35 index. Learn more here.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP expanded HITEC in 2017 with two additional events outside the annual North American event: one in Europe and the other in Dubai. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) added a new general session - "Technology and the Power of the C-Suite" - to the HITEC Houston education program. The session features C-level hospitality executives from brands, ownership groups and technology companies who will debate the future of emerging technology trends, funding for IT development and the nature of competition in a digital marketplace. The general session will take place from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 19, 2018. Immediately before the session, Tammy Farley and Jing Zhu will be inducted into the HFTP International Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame - HFTP's highest level of recognition in the area of technology.The session will be moderated by HFTP Global Treasurer Michael Levie, CHTP, COO at citizenM, and include the following c-level hospitality executives:Cindy Estis Green, co-founder and CEO, Kalibri Labs, LLCBarry Goldstein, EVP and chief commercial officer, WyndhamAsh Kapur, SVP, hotel asset management and chief revenue officer, Starwood Capital Group"From guest experience to business infrastructure, will hoteliers move outside of their core businesses to transform traditional brand models? Or, will third parties in the travel sector evolve to dominate the booking and stay experience for hotel guests?" asks HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "This new general session will explore the gap in the valuation multiples of public companies in travel, and discuss limits of loyalty, power of data, new economics in customer acquisition and how technology investments may play a role in establishing the winners in a dynamic new environment."In addition to HITEC Houston, HFTP has several other events upcoming in 2018. HFTP Annual Convention will October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout North America, HFTP expanded HITEC in 2017 with two additional events outside: one in Europe and the other in Dubai. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org.Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

The International Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame is HFTP's highest level of recognition in the area of technology. Since 1989, 44 individuals have received this award as a reflection of their contributions to the hospitality industry. Farley and Zhu were nominated and selected by their peers for representing the best in innovation and application, and for being leaders in their profession.Tammy Farley, co-founder and president of The Rainmaker Group, was selected for influencing the evolution of revenue optimization to meet the needs of today's global hospitality market. Since co-founding Rainmaker in 1998, she has been credited for her leading role in securing the company's impressive growth. Her natural abilities in entrepreneurship have proven vital in identifying opportunities that have helped Rainmaker to enhance and expand its industry leading portfolio of hospitality and gaming technology solutions. Over the past two decades, Farley has maintained her dedication to ensuring that more and more properties have the ability to leverage the latest advancements in revenue management technology."I am so very honored to be inducted into this prestigious group of hospitality professionals," says Farley. "Advancing the way hospitality revenue managers utilize technology has been both my personal objective as well as Rainmaker's corporate mission for over 20 years and it means a great deal to have our efforts recognized."Jing Zhu, founder and chairperson of the China Hospitality Technology Alliance (CHTA), was selected for establishing the Chinese hospitality technology network. CHTA aims to build industry innovation best practices and future platforms through talents in China and worldwide, and to connect ecosystems with leading-edge technologies to make travel and hospitality a better and fun space. Zhu is also CEO of 3D Networks a hospitality technology business where her emphasis on leading-edge hospitality technologies has resulted in a significant transformation for the business. She has more than 18 years of extensive experience in the IT/Telco industry."I am so honored and very humbled to receive such a significant award," said Zhu. "CHTA with a mission will continue striving for connecting East and West from innovation and technology perspectives."HITEC Houston will take place from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Centre in Houston, Texas USA. Also this year is HITEC Dubai, which will take place from December 5-7 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE in partnership with Naseba. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout North America, HFTP expanded HITEC in 2017 with two additional events outside: one in Europe and the other in Dubai. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), is pleased to announce the selected hospitality technology startups, expert judges panel and industry mentors that will participate in Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) at HITEC Houston. Sponsored by Amadeus, the E20X pitch competition will take place in room 342 on Monday, June 18, 2018 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. inside the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA; all registered HITEC attendees are welcome to attend.E20X innovators will pitch their business concepts to a room of HITEC attendees and a panel of six judges. The E20X judge's panel will determine the "E20X Judge's Choice Award" winner who will receive $5,000 USD and will receive extensive promotion by HFTP. HITEC attendees will determine the "E20X People's Choice Award" winner by voting for their favorite startup through the event mobile app; attendees may visit startups following the competition in the HITEC Houston exhibit hall at the Innovation Lab. E20X mentors will meet face-to-face with the entrepreneur pitchers hours before the E20X competition takes place sharing their experience, answering questions and making invaluable connections.The 2018 E20X Houston pitching companies include: Beekeeper; Stratifyd; TrayAway; Shenzhen Showboom Technology Co., Ltd.; Zendelity; Bookcliff Software, LLC; Sencity Corp; Jibestream; Conichi; LuggAgent; Proxce, Inc.; Reply.ai; PopulStay Pte. Ltd.; When Labs; ZiFiSense; HeyMojo, Inc.The 2018 E20X Houston expert judges' panel includes:Carson Booth, CHTP, CEO, SnapShot GmbHDiane Estner, President, DANNI EnterprisesMark Fancourt, Travel and Hospitality Technology CXOPrakash Shukla, Managing Partner, Wayfare VcScot Campbell, CHTP, CTO, North America Concerts - Live NationVanessa Ogle, CEO and Founder, EnseoThe 2018 E20X Houston onsite mentoring team includes:Bernard Ellis, CHTP, CRME, President and Founder, Lodgital Insights LLCDonna Hale, CEO and Owner, FEH Consulting, LLCHenri Roelings, Founder and CEO, HsyndicateKathleen Erickson, Director - Guest Facing Technologies, Hilton WorldwideMichael Cohen, Managing Partner, TechPartnerRich Siegel, President and Publisher, Hospitality UpgradeRon Tarro, Managing Member, SalientVoice Ventures, LLCShannon McCallum, Vice President - Hotel Operations, Mandalay Bay Resort & CasinoSophie Pommois, Project Director Global Distribution, Global Hotel AllianceFor more information about E20X, email e20x@hftp.org. In addition to HITEC Houston, HFTP has several other events upcoming in 2018. The HFTP Annual Convention is October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP expanded HITEC in 2017 with two additional events outside the annual North American event: one in Europe and the other in Dubai. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) continues to build on its online news series with the addition of its F&B Bytes website. Powered by Hsyndicate, an electronic media-hub based in The Netherlands, F&B Bytes is an aggregated content destination where users will find the latest food and beverage news all in one place. Recognized as a global educator in the hospitality industry, HFTP now offers hospitality professionals online news resources specific to technology, clubs, finance, GDPR, F&B and its association at large. HFTP's informational sites include: HITEC Bytes, Club Bytes, Finance Bytes, F&B Bytes, GDPR Bytes and HFTP News.The website allows users to stay updated with food and beverage trends, information and updates in the same easy-to-access format featured on its other news sites. F&B Bytes is a cross-platform site serves as a daily news outlet that brings together specific publications, reports, feature articles, white papers and more."As the global spokes group for hospitality finance and technology professionals, HFTP has an obligation to provide our stakeholders with a trusted digital channel of information," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Expanding the industry's access to curated knowledge is another reason that HFTP is granted nonprofit status and entrusted with experts who volunteer their time to provide solutions to everyday industry problems."HFTP's informational news sites were created with the goal of categorizing the large amounts of available information, and presenting the news in a more convenient way for users. F&B Bytes allows companies to publish their content to the site; registered users receive the additional benefit of having their content published to both F&B Bytes as well as PineappleSearch.com, the world's only hospitality-specific search engine. For those interested in publishing content or advertising on F&B Bytes, please contact HFTP Chief Marketing Officer Jennifer Lee, CAE at jennifer.lee@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-4023.For more information, visit www.hftp.org and https://fb.hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), is pleased to announce a partnership with Samsung for the upcoming HITEC Houston Opening Party this June. HITEC Houston attendees are invited to the Opening Party, which will be a lively event filled with entertainment and food. Multi-platinum entertainer Flo Rida - one of the most downloaded artists of all time with 29 Billboard Hot 100 hits, over two billion YouTube views and over 80 million downloads - will perform at the Opening Party taking place on Monday, June 18 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the luxe environment of the House of Blues Houston. HITEC Houston will take place from June 18-21, 2018 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA.HFTP and Samsung, which annually hosts a party coinciding with HITEC, are coming together to create a memorable evening that will help propel the week of hospitality education and networking."Between Samsung and HFTP, the HITEC Houston Opening Party is sure to be a night that will be remembered," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "The opening kick-off party for the largest HITEC of the year is open to all conference attendees. Join HFTP, Samsung and industry peers at the fabulous House of Blues for fun and mingling as everyone prepares for a busy and exciting week ahead.""Samsung has a multi-year legacy of delivering a big event at HITEC in which we bring the industry together as one," said Jonas Tanenbaum, vice president of hospitality TV division at Samsung Electronics America. "This year we are thrilled to join with HFTP for a kickoff to HITEC like never before at which we will demonstrate our collective commitment to the industry we serve."Samsung's vision of "creating a better world full of richer digital experiences, through innovative technology and products" aligns with the overall mission HITEC. HITEC Houston offers multiple sponsorship and advertising opportunities for those interested in promoting their company name to thousands of attendees. See which opportunities are still available by downloading the HITEC Houston Marketing Kit.HFTP remaining events for 2018 include HITEC Houston - HFTP's largest event of the year - from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HFTP Annual Convention will October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

OpenTravel Alliance, the not-for-profit responsible for developing and maintaining interoperability for disparate systems in all verticals of the travel industry, has published the 2018A 2.0 Object Suite Publication. This release is primarily focused on hospitality and includes functionality for key actions associated with booking a hotel.Functions of the 2018A Object Suite Publication include searching for hotels, checking availability, creating offers and orders and booking reservations. Part of the larger 2.0 Object Model, 2018A Object Suite Publication affords implementers with the same benefits, such as scalability and message customization and personalization. The specification contains both XML and JSON messaging, WSDLs and Swagger, documentation and examples, as well as supporting artifacts.By incorporating JSON, a lightweight data interchange format, and REST, an improved software architecture style, 2.0 reduces message weight which improves mobile compatibility by allowing app and widget development.David Velasquez, SVP technology and distribution at LinksRez said, "Developing an updated Hotel Distribution Messaging standard is challenging because it has to accommodate so many unique implementations while providing a path from previous versions. Implementing a new messaging standard is also challenging because of the vast support and capabilities the model provides. OpenTravel, it's members, and the next generation messaging simplify that process."The standard is extremely easy to interpret and more human readable compared to previous versions and other standards," Velasquez said. "Our experience developing a product based on the Hotel 2.0 standard had been relatively simple and very efficient timewise."2.0 is designed in a tiered fashion, giving the developer the ability to choose the level of detail needed, allowing for ease in design of everything from lightweight applications for mobile use to full featured robust applications."We're thrilled to provide a significant hospitality piece in the 2.0 Object Model," said Susanne Auinger, OpenTravel Board Chair. "2.0 answers the demands of the travel industry with a solution that, among other advantages, is even more flexible for various use cases. It will be exciting to see how greater adoption of the 2018A 2.0 Object Suite Publication improves the experience for all users."More information on the benefits of the 2.0 object model can be found at: http://opentravel.org/resources/object-model-solution/The 2018A 2.0 Object Suite Publication is available for download at: http://opentravelmodel.net/pubs/specifications/Specifications.htmlThe foundation of consumer direct bookings, OpenTravel's standards are responsible for travel industry connectivity, and every day, tens of thousands of OpenTravel message structures are in use, carrying tens of millions of messages between partners. Because of the strength of stakeholders, OpenTravel continues to identify future transactional needs while providing the necessary tools for travel companies to thrive.About OpenTravel AllianceOpenTravel Alliance is passionate about solving the problems inherent with connecting multiple systems within the complex travel distribution arena. Our mission is to enable the future of travel by driving the evolving digital experience for consumers. OpenTravel Alliance creates, expands and drives adoption of open specifications, including but not limited to the use of XML and JSON, for the electronic exchange of business information among all sectors of the travel industry.OpenTravel Alliance is comprised of companies representing airlines, car rental firms, hotels, cruise lines, railways, leisure suppliers, service providers, tour operators, travel agencies, solutions providers, technology companies and distributors. Tens of thousands of OpenTravel Alliance message structures are in use, carrying tens of millions of messages between trading partners every day.OpenTravel Alliance is a not-for-profit trade association, founded in 1999 by travel companies, with a primary focus on the creation of electronic message structures to facilitate communication between the disparate systems in the global travel industry. For more information on OpenTravel Alliance membership, new products, or projects, please visit http://www.opentravel.org or email info@opentravel.org.