Friday, June 12, 2026

One of the industry's most respected recognition programs celebrates women making an impact across restaurants, hotels, tourism, events, and hospitality-related businesses. Hotel owners, general managers, sales professionals, marketers, operations leaders, and entrepreneurs are all strong candidates. If there is a woman in your organization helping shape the future of Iowa hospitality, consider submitting a nomination.

Hospitality is a connected industry. The more we learn from one another, advocate together, and celebrate success across all segments, the stronger Iowa hospitality becomes. Nominations must be submitted by June 15. 

What We're Reading-- New Report Shares Impact Self Checkout Has on Hotel Booking Decisions 

The IHLA team is always looking for information that adds value and provides useful insight for members. That's one reason we created the Resource Center on the IHLA website—to serve as a place where members can access reports, research, and industry information that may help inform business decisions.

One of the studies we'll be adding this week comes from Retail Dive and it examines consumer expectations surrounding checkout and payment experiences. The findings suggest that the final interaction of a guest's stay can have a significant impact on overall satisfaction and loyalty.

According to the survey, long lines, slow service, pricing discrepancies, declined payments, and technology failures are among the biggest frustrations consumers encounter. 

In fact, three out of four respondents said the availability of their preferred checkout and payment options influences where they choose to shop and stay.

As hotels continue to evaluate technology investments and guest service strategies, this report offers timely insight into how convenience, reliability, and self-service options are shaping consumer expectations.

We'll add the full study to the IHLA Resource Center this week. In the meantime, you can access the report using the link below

Hospitality Exchange DSM brings together operators, managers, and hospitality leaders for candid conversations about what's happening in their businesses. Whether your focus is lodging, foodservice, events, or tourism, the discussion often reveals common challenges and practical ideas worth bringing back to your operation. If you haven't joined us yet, June 1 is a great opportunity to see what the conversation is all about. 

Open to current members of the Iowa Hotel & Lodging Association, Iowa Restaurant Association and Iowa Latino Hospitality Council.

Many Iowa Restaurant Association programs offer value well beyond restaurants. A current example is a partnership with Adesso Tax Services helping hospitality businesses determine whether they may be eligible for refunds related to certain COVID-era IRS penalties and interest charges. For operators who paid penalties or interest during or after the pandemic, it may be worth taking a closer look. Opportunities like these demonstrate how resources developed for one segment of hospitality can often create value across the broader industry.

Founded in 1978, Heart of America Group has grown from a single restaurant into a nationally recognized hospitality company with a portfolio of award-winning hotels, restaurants, and commercial developments. Through innovative concepts and long-term investments, the company creates memorable guest experiences while contributing to the communities it serves.