Destination Hotels & Resorts (Destination) tapped a diverse dataset of planners from around the United States to gauge their interest and focus for 2013. The fourth largest management company in the United States, Destination asked meeting planners to comment on new trends, tools and resources that can set a property apart from the pack. The results yielded six specific trends for hotels and resorts to take note of, and one overarching theme: cautious optimism. More than 30% of planners expect an increase in the number of meetings for 2013. Most planners felt budgets have stabilized, with 20% anticipating increased budget flexibility in the coming year.

"In almost every segment, we’re seeing positive indicators that 2013 will be a growth year for groups and meetings," stated André Fournier, vice president of sales & marketing of Destination Hotels & Resorts. "Another indication of a rebounding market is the anticipated increase in lead time on bookings after a flat line for several years. We found that 55% of meeting planners are looking at longer lead times, with 12% booking at least a year in advance."

Which suggests that 88% are still booking within twelve months! Click here to review the entire "State of the Industry Survey" and to learn what the six specific trends, tools or resources are that will set one property apart from the rest.