3 6 Ke·2025-08-19 01:22Core Insights - The cancellation of executive lounges in foreign hotel brands like Hilton and Marriott reflects a broader trend of cost-cutting in the hospitality industry, particularly in China [2][6][20] - The shift away from executive lounges is not an isolated incident but part of a strategic repositioning of hotel brands in response to changing market conditions [20][24] Group 1: Changes in Hotel Operations - Hilton Garden Inn has been quietly phasing out executive lounges in newly opened hotels, with many locations not offering this service despite initial plans [2][4] - Marriott's Courtyard brand has also permanently closed executive lounges in several locations, indicating a trend of reducing amenities that were once considered standard [4][6] - The experience of executive lounges has diminished, with reports of reduced quality in offerings, leading to a perception that these spaces are no longer exclusive or valuable [4][5] Group 2: Market Dynamics - The perception that mid-to-high-end international hotels must include executive lounges has been shaped by years of competitive differentiation and over-provisioning during economic growth [7][10] - As economic conditions have worsened, the demand for such amenities has decreased, making executive lounges one of the first areas to be cut [9][10] - The shift reflects a broader trend of value return in the hotel industry, where brands are reassessing their offerings based on market realities [10][20] Group 3: Brand Positioning and Strategy - Brands like Hilton and Marriott are reconsidering their market positioning, with some properties upgrading to full Hilton branding to align with consumer expectations [21][23] - The approach of IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) to limit access to executive lounges based on membership criteria serves as a potential model for maintaining exclusivity and quality [23] - The decision to retain or eliminate executive lounges ultimately hinges on whether they are core to a brand's identity or merely a superficial addition [24]