WHITE PLAINS, NY, Cutting-edge innovations, seminars focused on implementation of the latest technologies and a special exhibit area of near-future guestroom gadgets will leave attendees of the upcoming International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show® (IH/M&RS) with a solid understanding of the next generation of technology resources. Taking place November 8-11, 2008, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, the 93rd annual edition will feature nearly 200 tech-focused companies among 1,250 total exhibitors.

"Among the top priorities of industry decision-makers attending the IH/M&RS is discovering the latest and greatest technologies that will enhance guest experiences," said Lynn White, show manager. "With cutting-edge innovations around each corner, this product category continues to be a driving force behind attendance."

New Products and Resources

Attendees sourcing the latest innovations will find impressive new technologies down every aisle, including integrated software, check-in kiosks, high-definition televisions, green technologies, reservation systems, security systems, telecommunications, wireless solutions and more. Companies to be on the lookout for include Agilysis (integrated software), Bose Corporation (audio systems), DirecTV (digital satellite entertainment), Inncom (integrated room automated systems), Interactive Sports Technologies (high definition golf simulator), LG Electronics (LCD and plasma televisions), Long Range Systems (wireless communications), Micros (integrated software), Multi-Systems (integrated software), Onity (electronic locks and in-room safes), Panasonic (LCD and plasma televisions), PAR Springer-Miller (spa management software), Phone Suite (telecommunications), RMS Touch (touch screen POS systems for restaurants), SAFLOK (multi-technology locks), Sharp Electronics Corporation (LCD flat panel televisions), Softbrands (integrated software), Sony Electronics (LCD and plasma televisions), Teledex (telecommunications) and TTI Technologies International (self-service business centers). A complete exhibitor listing is available online, at www.ihmrs.com.

"Green" Technologies

The IH/M&RS will serve as a top destination for discovering the technologies that will lead to more energy-efficient operations, decreased carbon footprints and increased bottom lines. Among the eco-friendly technologies launching at IH/M&RS are the Glass Series e4 Digital Thermostat and Switch by INNCOM International, which is made of recyclable glass and controls room temperature, lighting and more; Sloan ECOStm by Sloan Valve Company, a water conservation system that utilizes a battery-powered Dual-Flush Flushometer for a reduced 1.1-gallon flush option; and the Commercial Soft-Mount, High-Speed Extractors by Maytag®, which decreases drying time and energy usage with extraction of up to 350 G's.

G2X: A Display of New and Innovative Guestroom Technologies

A special exhibit presented by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), G2X will showcase new and innovative technologies in a format designed to encourage dialogue and creative thinking. G2X is the result of HFTP's annual global search for the industry's most cutting-edge and future guestroom innovations. The exhibit includes more than 30 technologies including a voice recognition alarm clock set by speaking to it instead of punching buttons, a virtual library of the latest best-selling books, a bed without a mattress, a closet that generates electricity, a 3D golf course tour, a shower that gives a massage to the beat of your favorite music, a transducer that turns almost any surface into a speaker and a high definition art gallery that changes to suit the mood of the guest.

Seminars

Seminars focused on the latest technology and implementation of those technologies will complement the related products and resources on the Show floor. Tech-focused seminars will include:

Saturday, November 8, 2008
2:30 PM to 3:30 PM
"Securing Payments: What the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards Mean For Your Hotel"
Room 1E10
Information technology is a great business tool, but if not implemented properly, it can leave hotels exposed to great risks. Data security is a mounting concern among consumers, employees, and businesses alike due to the growing number of computer breaches and reports of identity theft. Securing a business enterprise is no easy feat, especially in this high-tech era and one so complex as a hotel organization. Nonetheless, it is absolutely necessary and an important obligation for anyone practicing business. To address these risks and protect card holders, the Payment Card Industry has adopted the Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This standard requires numerous changes to business processes and computer applications and imposes steep penalties for those failing to comply. Is your hotel prepared and making security a top priority? The risks are too great not to focus on security and could cause irreparable harm. This session will address the nuts and bolts of PCI DSS to help hotel operators determine tactical strategies to ensure they are complying and safeguarding the information entrusted in them. It will feature the AH&LA's recently published Hotel Technology 101: The Payment Card Industry Compliance Process for Hotels. Moderator: Clay Dickinson, executive vice president, Jones Lange LaSalle Hotels. Panelists: Jim Abrams, president & CEO, California Hotel & Lodging Association; Dan Connolly, Ph.D., associate professor, University of Denver, School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management; Brad Davenport, PCI solutions marketing manager, RSA, The Security Division of EMC.

Sunday, November 9, 2008
1:00 PM to 2:30 PM
"Information Security 101"
Room 1E09
Discover information on identity theft, data security breaches, viruses, hacking tools, email and web threats. Also, learn how to arm yourself to defend not only your company but also your guests and employees. Speaker: Scott Nowakowski, director, information technology, Denihan Hospitality Group.

Monday, November 10, 2008
1:00 PM to 2:30 PM
"Travel 3.0"
Room 1E10
A look into the future of travel planning which is heading down a new technical savvy path directly affected by consumer posted ratings. It's no longer your grandparent's way of planning for a family vacation. Today's consumer turns to the internet when planning a trip for both the expert ratings and the consumer ratings. Hear how the premier rating companies are preparing to meet the needs of the future traveler. Moderator: Phil Hayward, editor, Lodging Magazine. Panelists: Darren Jones, director, inspections & ratings, Mobil Travel Guide; Glen Mac Donell, director, AAA lodging programs, AAA, Inc.; Brian Payea, trade relations manager, TripAdvisor; and Douglas K. Shifflet, chairman & CEO, D.K. Shifflet & Associates, Ltd.

3:00 PM to 4:30 PM
"Traditional vs. IP Telephone Systems"
Room 1E07
With opportunities such as convergence and integration and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), there is more to think about when selecting a successful telephone system. Designed for all experience levels, this session teaches you what to consider when purchasing a telephone system that best meets your property's unique requirements. Speakers: Don O'Neal, ISHC, president, O'Neal Consultants; and Jules Sieburgh, CHTP, consultant, O'Neal Consultants.

The 93rd annual International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show will run Saturday, November 8, through Tuesday, November 11, 2008, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Following a full-day of conference and networking activities on Saturday, November 8, the IH/M&RS will feature three full days of exhibits from Sunday, November 9, through Tuesday, November 11. The market presents some 1,250 hospitality industry suppliers and attracts approximately 35,000 in total trade attendance.

The International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show is sponsored by the American Hotel & Lodging Association, the Hotel Association of New York City, Inc., and the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association; and is managed by GLM®, a dmg world media business.

For IH/M&RS exhibitor information, contact Lynn White, show manager, at GLM, Ten Bank Street, White Plains, NY 10606-1954. Telephone (914) 421-3249. Fax (914) 948-6197. E-mail: lynn_white@glmshows.com. For attendee information, contact GLM Customer Relations at (914) 421-3206 or (800) 272-SHOW, or by email, at customer_relations@glmshows.com. Additional information and registration is available online, at www.ihmrs.com.