AAHOACON25 Set for New Orleans: Innovations and Opportunities Await Hospitality Professionals

ATLANTA, GA - With less than a month to go, AAHOA, the world’s largest hotel owners association, is set for AAHOACON25, the must-attend event for the hospitality industry, which will be held April 15-17, 2025, in New Orleans.

Under this year’s theme, “New Ideas, New Opportunities, New Orleans,” this epic event promises three days of innovative education, robust networking opportunities, and a bustling trade show floor showcasing the latest products and services. With the backdrop of one of America’s most lively and culturally rich cities, attendees will gain actionable insights to fuel their success in 2025 and beyond.

AAHOACON25 is more than just a conference—it’s where the industry comes together to spark fresh ideas, find new opportunities, and strengthen partnerships. This year, set against the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans, we’re bringing together the best minds in hospitality to explore what’s next for our industry. I encourage every hotel owner, industry partner, and aspiring leader to join us for a transformative experience. AAHOA Chairman Miraj S. Patel

AAHOACON25 Highlights:

• Keynote Speakers: AAHOACON25 welcomes Rohan Oza, known as “Hollywood’s Brandfather,” and Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian, as keynote speakers for the event’s General Sessions. Standup comedian, author, producer, and screenwriter Zarna Garg will be the speaker for the HerOwnership Luncheon & Session.
• Networking Opportunities: Directly connect with some 6,000 industry leaders, peers, and vendors at various events throughout the conference.
• Industry’s Largest Trade Show: Discover the latest trends, products, and services from an increasing list of over 500 leading industry vendors.
• Game-Changing Educational Sessions: Learn from top experts as they tackle hotel insurance, financing trends, sustainability, and artificial intelligence. Elevate your expertise with a masterclass in profit strategy as well as at the Independent Hoteliers Conference & Reception on April 15 and the HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Evolve) Fireside Chat: Navigating the Future of Hospitality – Leadership, Advocacy, and Community Impact. Plus, get a front-row seat to the future of hospitality at the Tech Pitch Competition and The Garage on the Trade Show floor.
• Compact Agenda for Highest Impact: Feedback from attendees recommended a shortened event, so the convention is now three days, with the Trade Show taking place on Wednesday and Thursday.
• Block Party at Fulton Street: Attendees can enjoy a block party at Fulton Street, where AAHOA will host an exclusive event spanning seven venues with a variety of entertainment, creating an evening of networking and celebration.
• Welcome Reception at Spanish Plaza: The Mississippi River backdrop will set the scene for the Welcome Reception, offering a great start to the conference and a chance for attendees to connect.
• Gala Celebration with a Mardi Gras Element: Attendees can anticipate a special Mardi Gras-inspired highlight at this year’s Gala, bringing a New Orleans touch of a float parade to the closing night’s festivities.

With a packed agenda featuring expert speakers, educational sessions, and industry networking opportunities, AAHOACON25 is designed to offer hotel professionals meaningful insights and connections.

AAHOACON25 is the epic event for anyone looking to stay ahead in the hospitality industry. With premier networking, educational sessions, and a packed trade show, attendees will walk away with actionable insights and connections that drive success. I invite everyone committed to the future of our industry to join us in New Orleans for an unforgettable conference. AAHOA President & CEO Laura Lee Blake

AAHOACON25 is a unique opportunity for hotel owners and industry leaders to connect, learn, and explore new business opportunities. With a strong lineup of speakers, educational sessions, and an expansive Trade Show, attendees will gain valuable insights and resources to help them succeed. I look forward to welcoming everyone to New Orleans for an event that promises to be both productive and memorable. AAHOA Vice Chairman and Convention Chairman Kamalesh (KP) Patel

About AAHOA

AAHOA is the largest hotel owners association in the nation, with Member-owned properties representing a significant part of the U.S. economy. AAHOA's 20,000 members own 60% of the hotels in the United States and are responsible for 1.7% of the nation's GDP. More than 1 million employees work at AAHOA member-owned hotels, earning $51.3 billion annually, and member-owned hotels support 4.2 million U.S. jobs across all sectors of the hospitality industry. AAHOA's mission is to advance and protect the business interests of hotel owners through advocacy, industry leadership, professional development, member benefits, and community engagement.

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