The US lodging industry recorded its best ever year in 2006, posting pre-tax profits of US$26.6bn, up from US$22.6bn in 2005.

The American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AH&LA) Lodging Industry Profile (LIP) reports overall industry profitability grossed US$133.4bn in total sales compared to US$122.7bn in 2007.

It attributes the growth to increased room rates due to high demand levels.

The LIP provides a quick list of significant facts about the lodging, travel and tourism industries, including employment impact, international travel statistics and property and room breakdowns by location, rate and size.

By staff writer