What's Happening?
Luxury Travel Intelligence (LTI) has released its annual report on the world's best luxury hotel brands, naming Mandarin Oriental as the top brand for the third consecutive year. The report evaluates brands based on 130 key touchpoints, focusing on overall brand performance rather than individual properties. Mandarin Oriental achieved a score of 81.8%, followed by Aman and Bulgari. The report highlights the growing issue of a global shortage of exceptional management and staff in the luxury hotel sector, which could threaten the reputation of top-tier brands if not addressed. LTI plans to update its algorithm in 2026 to monitor how brands confront this challenge.
Why It's Important?
The recognition of Mandarin Oriental as the leading luxury hotel brand underscores the importance of maintaining high standards in management and service within the hospitality industry. As the sector faces challenges in recruiting skilled personnel, brands must invest in training and development to meet the expectations of discerning travelers. This report serves as a benchmark for luxury hotel brands, encouraging them to uphold their values and commitment to excellence. The findings may influence investment decisions and strategic planning within the industry, as brands strive to enhance their reputation and customer loyalty.
What's Next?
LTI plans to significantly update its evaluation algorithm from 2026 to better track how luxury hotel brands address the shortage of skilled management and staff. Brands are encouraged to invest in recruitment and training during the construction phase of new properties to align with their ethos and service expectations. This proactive approach may help brands maintain their reputation and meet the demands of luxury travelers. The industry will likely see increased focus on human resource development as a critical factor in sustaining brand excellence.
