In the hustle of running (or planning to run) an independent lodging business, it can be hard to justify stepping away from your property for a few days. But here’s the truth: attending state, regional, and national industry conferences isn’t a luxury—it’s one of the smartest business decisions you can make.

Whether it’s your local association’s annual conference, a regional gathering, or the national ALP Unlocked conference, these events deliver value that far outweighs the time and cost. Here’s why.

1. You’re Investing in Yourself and Your Business

It’s easy to get so caught up in day-to-day operations that you stop investing in your own professional growth. Conferences provide concentrated time to focus on you—your skills, your vision, your goals.

• Gain fresh strategies to boost bookings and revenue
• Learn ways to streamline operations and save time
• Discover trends that can keep you ahead of guest expectations

When you bring back new ideas, your business benefits immediately.

2. The Networking is Invaluable

Conferences bring together people who understand your world—your challenges, your victories, and even your “you can’t make this stuff up” guest stories.

• Share experiences and solutions with peers
• Build relationships that turn into trusted resources
• Connect with industry experts and potential partners

These conversations often lead to business ideas you might never have thought of on your own.

3. Inspiration Flows Freely

Running a lodging property can be demanding, and burnout is real. Conferences reignite your passion and remind you why you chose this path in the first place. You’ll leave with a notebook full of ideas and the motivation to put them into action.

4. Access to Tools, Products, and Services That Make a Difference

The curated exhibit halls at industry events are a goldmine. You’ll find tools, products, and services designed specifically for independent lodging professionals.

• Technology to simplify your workload
• Décor and amenities to wow your guests
• Marketing solutions to get your property noticed

At ALP Unlocked, as well as at state and regional events, you can have face-to-face conversations with these companies, see demos, and ask the questions that matter to your property.

5. The National Advantage: ALP Unlocked

While local and regional events are incredibly valuable, a national event like ALP Unlocked takes things to another level:

• Broader perspectives – Learn from speakers, panelists, and attendees from across the country
• More variety – Multiple tracks and sessions tailored to different experience levels
• Unmatched networking – Build a national network of peers and industry leaders
• Bigger exhibit hall – More vendors, more solutions, more ideas to take home

It’s the one place each year where the independent lodging community comes together to learn, share, and grow.

6. You Can’t Get This From a Webinar

Online learning is convenient, but it can’t replicate the energy, connection, and immersion you get from being there in person. Conferences give you the space to step out of your daily routine, focus deeply, and return recharged.

The Bottom Line

Whether it’s your state, regional, or national gathering, attending an industry conference is not an expense—it’s an investment in your success. YOU are worth the investment and so is your business!

📅 See upcoming state and regional events on ALP’s Event Calendar.
📅 Join us for the national event – ALP Unlocked, March 2–5, 2026 in Cleveland, OH.

Don’t just run your business—unlock its full potential. YOU are worth the investment and so is your business!