Hilton Introduces Meetings Simplified

Hilton Worldwide has launched a new program to meet the need for small meeting solutions. Designed for groups of 25 or less, Meetings Simplified is now available at 1,800 properties in the U.S. and select properties in Canada. A list of participating properties is available at www.hiltonworldwide.com/simplified.

“Our hotels accommodate groups for meetings and events of all sizes, and Meetings Simplified provides our customers with increased flexibility through a process that’s easier and quicker than ever before,” said Andrew Flack, vice president, product marketing solutions, Hilton Worldwide. “A key benefit to business professionals is that Meetings Simplified offers per-person pricing and it’s easier to book.”

The Meetings Simplified basic meeting package includes everything from Wi-Fi and flip charts to soft drinks, tea and coffee included in the per-person pricing, as well as additional offerings from select participating brands. Meals and snacks, LCD projectors with monitors and guest rooms may be also added through an a la carte menu.

Hilton Worldwide brands participating in the Meetings Simplified offering include Hilton Grand Vacations, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels and Homewood Suites by Hilton.

The new program was developed after a national Hilton Worldwide survey of 600+ U.S. meeting planners revealed that nearly a third of business professionals spend an average of two or more hours booking hotel meeting space for an offsite meeting.

The survey also found that 67 per cent of respondents said they would book meetings outside of their normal work space to enhance their company’s image; 87 per cent say meeting at hotels versus other locations has the benefit of a “relaxed” environment; and 86 percent say hotel meeting spaces are “fresh” compared to other meeting spaces.

Additional findings include:

• Only 21 per cent of business professionals book offsite business meetings in an average of 30 minutes or less.
• 63 per cent say meetings outside of the office are more productive.
• 67 per cent saying they would book meetings outside of their normal work space to enhance their company’s image.