In July, IDeaS’ Converge 2025 Client Summit brought together hospitality’s brightest minds in London for a day of learning, inspiration, and innovation. With the theme “Bold Moves, Big Impact: A New Era in Hospitality,” the event explored how hoteliers can meet today’s challenges with visionary leadership, intelligent technology, and cross-functional collaboration.
Insights across hospitality
The day kicked off with a compelling keynote from Rafat Ali, founder and CEO of Skift, who challenged attendees to lead through disruption. Addressing macro-trends like digital transformation, climate urgency, and shifting guest expectations, Rafat called on hospitality leaders to move forward with both vision and agility—backed by storytelling and data.
Throughout the day, sessions spotlighted practical innovation from across the hospitality industry. A standout panel, Voices Across Verticals, featured revenue leaders from Sandals, Scenic Luxury Cruises, Mandarin Oriental, and Landal—each offering unique perspectives on navigating complexity in their respective segments. From cruise revenue strategies to park-based accommodation models, one thing was clear across segments: bold thinking pays off.
The strength of revenue science, innovative partners
Attendees got a firsthand look at the future of revenue science in New Frontiers in Advanced Optimization, led by Tugrul Sanli, Senior Director of Advanced Analytics at SAS. This session explored how cutting-edge pricing strategies are tailored for navigating volatility and complexity, helping hospitality providers stay agile and competitive.
Converge also celebrated innovation in action. During Bold Moves, Big Impact, IDeaS honored clients who have achieved transformative results with bold, data-driven strategies. Their stories served as powerful proof points for what’s possible when revenue leaders lean into change.
A spotlight on commercial strategy and sustainability
The critical MICE segment took center stage in Meetings Reimagined, where Clermont Hotel Group shared how they’re using technology to bring precision and strategy to group business. Meanwhile, Spotlight, IDeaS’ newest innovation, was revealed as a powerful bridge between marketing and revenue teams—empowering smarter, shared decision-making.
Sustainability took the spotlight in Bold by Nature, where leaders from Montage, Radisson, and Open Revenue Consulting discussed how balancing profit with purpose is now a commercial imperative. From energy use to design, hospitality is reimagining its environmental impact.
Leading the way
In another crowd-favorite highlight, attendees were treated to a live session with IDeaS President & Chief Scientist Dr. Ravi Mehrotra, who brought complex optimization concepts to life with clarity and wit. It was a fan-favorite moment of insight and inspiration.
The day wrapped with a heartfelt reflection from Klaus Kohlmayer, Chief Evangelist and Development Officer at IDeaS, who encouraged attendees to redefine boldness—not just as big moves, but as intentional acts of leadership, impact, and legacy.
Make a bold move
Converge 2025 proved that the future of hospitality is not just about adapting—it’s about leading. And with a community like this, the bold moves ahead look brighter than ever.
We know firsthand that it’s never too early to start planning for next year—so why not get a jump start on setting your 2026 agenda? Head to the Converge Client Summit page to learn more about next year’s events in Ft. Lauderdale and Bangkok—and how you can take advantage of early bird pricing.
