Grupo Posadas CEO discusses Mexican tourism post-covid rebound, attracting American tourists while prioritizing safety. Insight on pandemic impact, lessons learned, and shift towards experiential travel. Strategic focus on asset and international investment in Mexican hotels.
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Quick takeaways
Mexico's tourism industry relies heavily on US visitors, with outbound traveler numbers increasing by 17% in 2022.
Grupo Posadas adopts asset-light strategies, focusing on core competencies and leveraging external investments for growth.
Deep dives
Impact of Tourism on Mexico's Economy
Tourism plays a crucial role in Mexico's economy, accounting for 8 percent of national GDP and employing 5.8 percent of the total workforce in 2019. Outbound travelers from the US to Mexico increased by 17 percent in 2022 compared to the previous year, reflecting the importance of US visitors. Despite State Department warnings, tourism destinations strive to ensure safety and emphasize that experiences in Mexico often defy negative perceptions.
Resilience and Adaptation in the Hospitality Industry
The pandemic presented challenges to the hospitality industry, leading companies to enhance resilience and flexibility. Mexico's less restricted travel policies attracted first-time visitors, with 35 percent of travelers being newcomers. The focus shifted towards providing valuable experiences to customers, emphasizing experiential travel over material possessions. Companies like Grupo Posadas diversified their offerings across different market segments and invested in long-term growth strategies.
Investment and Growth Strategies in the Hotel Sector
Grupo Posadas emphasizes asset-light strategies, collaborating with domestic and international investors to foster growth. The company focuses on areas where it excels, such as sales, operations, and brand management, while leveraging external investments for technological advancements and expansion. Despite challenges like high-interest rates, Grupo Posadas maintains a long-term perspective in hotel investments, viewing market fluctuations as part of the industry cycle.