Los Angeles Hotels Miss World Cup Booking Targets at 70% of Properties as Airbnb Gains
Updated
Updated · LAist · Jun 11
Los Angeles Hotels Miss World Cup Booking Targets at 70% of Properties as Airbnb Gains
2 articles · Updated · LAist · Jun 11
Summary
Up to 70% of Los Angeles hotels reported World Cup bookings below expectations, and hotel leaders said some FIFA room blocks agreed about four years ago are still sitting empty.
High fuel prices, geopolitical concerns and the tendency of mega-events to scare off regular summer travelers have cut demand, leaving bookings not only short of World Cup hopes but also behind normal summer levels.
Hotel weakness could trim the tournament’s projected $550 million economic boost because rooms account for roughly 40% to 50% of tourist spending in Los Angeles and also drive spillover business.
Hospitality workers are already feeling the shortfall, with Unite Here Local 11 saying fewer shifts are materializing, especially at downtown hotels.
Airbnb said the tournament could be its biggest hosting event ever, while some hotels still hope late bookings will rise once fans know which teams are playing in Los Angeles' eight matches.