EMERGING Table Stakes: Navigating the New Currency of Hospitality

The hospitality industry has entered a period of profound structural shift. As observed at the 2026 ALIS Conference in Los Angeles, the traditional landscape is being hollowed out, leaving behind a “dying middle.” Today’s consumer is no longer interested in the predictable, mid-tier experiences that defined previous decades. Instead, the market has bifurcated into two… Continue reading EMERGING Table Stakes: Navigating the New Currency of Hospitality

EMERGING Table Stakes: How AI is Shaping the Future of Human Connectivity

As a strategic advisor and investor to some of the world’s most recognized hospitality and entertainment brands, EMERGING has a unique perspective on the intersection of human behavior and technology. In early 2026, two distinct forces are simultaneously reshaping the industry: a widening “human connection deficit” and the rapid maturation of applied Artificial Intelligence. For… Continue reading EMERGING Table Stakes: How AI is Shaping the Future of Human Connectivity

Sports, Entertainment, Hospitality & Restaurants (SEHR) AI Industry Report

Sports, Entertainment, Hospitality & Restaurants (SEHR) AI Industry Report Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transitioned from infrastructure-driven growth to applied intelligence across vertical industries. Between 2022 and mid-2025, early-stage AI deals totaled approximately $102B, representing +110% growth since 2022 and a CAGR of roughly 32%. Within this global surge, Sports, Entertainment, Hospitality, and Restaurants (SEHR) stand… Continue reading Sports, Entertainment, Hospitality & Restaurants (SEHR) AI Industry Report

When Do You Know You Have a Restaurant Concept That Can Expand Nationally?

The restaurant industry is known for its cut-throat competition and constantly evolving consumer preferences. While expanding a restaurant chain nationwide may seem like a dream come true, it comes with its fair share of challenges. In this article, we will discuss the challenges restaurants face when growing nationally fast, some examples of restaurants that have… Continue reading When Do You Know You Have a Restaurant Concept That Can Expand Nationally?