Core Viewpoint - The high-end hotel industry in China is undergoing significant changes, facing challenges from both domestic competition and shifting consumer preferences, leading to a decline in traditional revenue sources and a need for innovation in service offerings and customer engagement [4][10][35]. Group 1: Historical Context and Market Dynamics - The emergence of five-star hotels in China began in the 1980s with foreign brands like Hilton and Marriott taking the lead, benefiting from favorable policies and market conditions [3]. - Over time, domestic hotel brands have gained traction, causing foreign hotels to lose their dominant position, with many international hotel groups reporting poor performance in the Greater China region [4][6]. - The investment return rate for five-star hotels in China is low, ranging from 0.3% to 4%, indicating that many high-end hotels are not profitable despite their prestigious status [6][9]. Group 2: Current Challenges and Consumer Behavior - The high-end hotel sector is experiencing a decline in traditional customer bases, such as government receptions and business travel, due to policy changes and cost-cutting measures by companies [18][12]. - Consumers are increasingly seeking unique and personalized experiences, leading to a shift in demand from mere accommodation to integrated lifestyle offerings [28][30]. - The collaboration between high-end hotels and local platforms like Meituan is seen as a strategic move to tap into younger consumer segments and enhance customer loyalty through innovative membership programs [20][25]. Group 3: Strategic Responses and Innovations - Major hotel chains like Marriott are adapting by diversifying their offerings, including food and beverage services, to attract a broader customer base and improve profitability [31][33]. - The partnership with Meituan has resulted in a significant increase in bookings, particularly among younger consumers, highlighting the effectiveness of leveraging local platforms for customer acquisition [22][25]. - High-end hotels are exploring new business models that integrate various lifestyle elements, aiming to create a more holistic experience for guests beyond just accommodation [30][34].

Group 1 - The core trend in South Korea's five-star hotel industry is a shift in consumer behavior, with more individuals opting for membership primarily for dining experiences rather than accommodation [1][2] - Various five-star hotels in South Korea are offering diverse membership programs, some focusing on accommodation while others emphasize dining discounts and benefits [1][2] - The Grand Hyatt Seoul launched a dining-focused membership program in February 2023, offering an 85% discount at multiple restaurants and various vouchers, with annual fees starting at 600,000 KRW (approximately 3,060 RMB) for individuals [1] - The Four Seasons Hotel Seoul introduced a dining membership in 2017, which saw a 10% increase in membership by April 2023 compared to the previous year, and launched a more flexible and affordable option for younger consumers in 2023 [1] - The new membership for younger consumers at the Four Seasons Hotel costs about 200,000 KRW (1,020 RMB) every six months, providing a 10% discount at all hotel restaurants and vouchers of varying amounts [1] Group 2 - Some hotels, like the Walkerhill Hotel, do not have dedicated dining membership programs but include dining discounts in their overall membership packages, with discounts ranging from 60% to 70% [2] - There has been a 27% year-on-year increase in the number of members choosing dining-focused options from January to April 2023 [2] - The Shilla Hotel also offers membership options that focus on either accommodation or dining, with approximately 60% of members opting for the dining-focused category [2]