A string of mergers over the past few months has sped industry consolidation considerably, leaving rival companies concerned about the reduction of competition, reports The New York Times. Between Expedia’s acquisitions of like-booking companies and the massive Marriott-Starwood merger, some are worried that the trend will continue in an effort to level the playing field with online booking sites. The fear is that hospitality will go the way of the airline industry, which has few carriers and diminished mileage values. However, some counter that since hotels are financed and managed differently, franchisees may find that consolidation is key in building loyalty programs. For the full story, click here.
