Hotel trailblazers unite to explore strategies for innovation, resilience, and people-first growth
Hospitality America welcomed more than 50 hotel leaders, corporate partners, and industry experts to PEACH Con 2025, its fourth annual leadership conference, held under the theme “Navigating New Frontiers; Where Trailblazers Thrive.” The three-day gathering equipped attendees with strategies to strengthen performance today while preparing for the future of hospitality.
“Trailblazers thrive in environments where curiosity is encouraged, initiative is rewarded, and values aren’t just posters on the wall, they’re practiced daily,” Ben Campbell, President & CEO of Hospitality America.
Olympian and World Series Champion Ryan Lavarnway inspired attendees with his “WHY NOT™ Mindset” keynote, encouraging leaders to reframe setbacks, build resilience, and embrace growth opportunities in times of change.
PEACH Con 2025 Highlights
- Labor Efficiency & Revenue Growth: Hotel Effectiveness – Tools for Trail Leaders provided managers with actionable ways to balance profitability and staffing shortages.
- AI & Technology Transformation: Amadeus explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping hotel operations and guest engagement.
- Economic Outlook: CoStar’s Trail Reports addressed market headwinds and opportunities, while Actabl guided leaders through The Budget Basecamp with tactics for agile forecasting.
Recognizing Excellence: The PEACHY Awards
The PEACHY Awards celebrated team members who exemplify Hospitality America’s PEACH values—Passion, Excellence, Adaptability, Community, and Humility. Associates were nominated by peers for going above and beyond in their unique way.
“At Hospitality America, our greatest strength is our people,” Campbell said. “The HA Promise is more than words—it’s our commitment to creating an environment where team members feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.”
Notable Honorees
- Hotelier of the Year: Robin Sherwood, General Manager, Home2 Suites Asheville Airport
- Sales Performer of the Year: Allison Crump, Area Director of Sales, Baton Rouge
- Hotel of the Year: Motto by Hilton Bentonville Downtown and its opening team, recognized for record-breaking first-year results.
Our Partners
Hospitality America extends its sincere gratitude to the generous partners who made PEACH Con 2025 possible. We especially thank Actabl, our Presenting Sponsor, and Engage PEO, our Awards Sponsor, for their leadership and support. Additional partners included Apogee Travel, Arthur Gallagher, Guest Supply, Sertifi, TravelClick/Amadeus, Zurich, Acumen, Booking.com, Hoffman Mechanical Solutions, HSM, Imperial Dade, Ramp, South State Bank, and Southern Valet. Their partnership elevated the event experience and reflects a shared commitment to hospitality innovation and growth.
Culture, Connection & Commitment
Beyond strategy sessions, PEACH Con emphasized culture and community with sunrise trail walks, team outings, and collaborative workshops. Associates described the event as:
- “An invaluable opportunity to connect with peers and re-energize for the year ahead.”
- “A reminder that HA keeps people at the center—even as the industry evolves.”
- “A moment to reflect, grow, and set new goals as leaders.”
Looking Ahead
Planning is already underway for PEACH Con 2026, promising an expanded program, new sponsor activations, and deeper exploration of hospitality innovation.
About Hospitality America
Hospitality America is a hotel management company based in Greenville, SC, with a portfolio of award-winning properties across the Southeastern United States. The company specializes in operating top-performing hotels that deliver exceptional guest experiences and commercial success. Recognized in 2024 and 2025 by USA Today as a Top Place to Work, Hospitality America continues to set the standard for people-first performance.
Learn more about Hospitality America’s culture, leadership events, and portfolio of award-winning hotels at hospitalityamerica.com.
