As international leisure travel continues to soften and federal-related events disappear from calendars, many hotels are left asking the same question: What now?

Here’s the good news—there is still strong demand out there. You just need to know where to look and how to adapt.

Across key U.S. markets, one thing is clear: corporate group travel is holding firm. In fact, as companies look for more cost-effective, stateside options, many are shifting previously international events back to domestic destinations.

So, if you’re in one of these markets—or even near one—now is the time to “group up.”

Corporate Groups Want Certainty. Are You Giving It to Them?

Today’s corporate planners are navigating shifting budgets, tighter timelines, and increased pressure to justify every decision. What they need from you isn’t just space—it’s clarity, confidence, and speed.

That’s where immersive content becomes your not-so-secret weapon.

By allowing buyers to explore your property remotely, you:

• Accelerate decision-making when in-person site visits aren’t an option
• Increase conversions by showcasing value visually and contextually
• Reduce back-and-forth by answering key questions visually: layout, capacity, vibe, logistics

When every moment counts, the ability to visually sell is no longer a luxury—it’s a differentiator.

How to Group Up Smarter (and Faster)

Whether you’re trying to recover lost government business or fill your event pipeline heading into 2026, here’s how to turn domestic interest into booked business:

1. Prioritize Speed and Simplicity

Corporate buyers often need to move fast—especially when filling last-minute requests. Make it easy with digital proposals, immersive site tours, and embedded visual assets.

2. Update Group-Focused Visuals

Don’t just show your ballroom. Show the experience. Include set-up variations, AV layouts, catering visuals, and flow for networking. Immersive = memorable.

3. Lead with Value, Not Price

Budgets are under scrutiny, but price isn’t everything. Use immersive storytelling to justify value, reduce risk perception, and showcase unique value drivers.

4. Lean Into Your Market’s Strengths

Big cities like NYC, Vegas, and Chicago? Sell the experience and connectivity. Florida, Nevada, and Texas? Highlight outdoor options and weather benefits. Customize your story based on what your market does best.

Now’s the Time to Book Smarter

The industry doesn’t need more guesswork—it needs action. The properties that adapt fastest to the shift toward domestic group demand will come out ahead.

Immersive selling tools can help you capture interest before it goes elsewhere.

Let’s make sure when they’re ready to book, they book with you.

Schedule your immersive strategy consultation today with one of our Account Executives!