Local Perspectives, Lasting Impact: MacNaughton Hospitality at ULI Hawai‘i’s 2025 Hospitality Market Update

Earlier this month, the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Hawai‘i hosted its annual Hospitality Market Update—a sold-out event that brought together leaders from across Hawai‘i’s real estate, development, and tourism sectors. Organized by Duff Janus, ULI member and Vice President of Acquisitions and Development at MacNaughton, the program offered a dynamic look at the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping Hawai‘i’s visitor economy today and into the future.

The session featured an impressive lineup of panelists and moderators representing hotel ownership groups, developers, investors, and policy experts. Discussions ranged from market capacity and visitor management to product differentiation, traveler trends across Asia, ownership and operating models, and pricing and demand cycles—all framed by the broader theme of long-term resilience in Hawai‘i’s hospitality market.

Emily Su-lan Reber Porter, MacNaughton’s Chief Operating Officer and Head of Hospitality, joined the distinguished panel to share insights on how local ownership and thoughtful development can help sustain Hawai‘i’s tourism ecosystem for generations to come. Drawing from MacNaughton Hospitality’s portfolio—which includes Lotus Honolulu Hotel, Waikiki Malia, Hotel Renew, and Arden Waikīkī—Emily emphasized the importance of balancing economic growth with cultural respect, community benefit, and authentic guest experiences.

“As local owners, we have both the privilege and the responsibility to ensure that Hawai‘i’s hospitality landscape evolves in a way that supports our communities,” Porter noted. “Sustainability isn’t just environmental—it’s about nurturing long-term relationships between visitors, residents, and place.”

The event underscored the critical role collaboration plays in navigating Hawai‘i’s hospitality future. By bringing together diverse voices—from operators and developers to policy and tourism leaders—ULI Hawai‘i continues to provide a forum where ideas and innovation converge for the betterment of the industry.

Mahalo to ULI Hawai‘i for organizing another meaningful event that deepens understanding, sparks conversation, and strengthens the collective commitment to responsible, resilient growth across Hawai‘i’s hospitality landscape.

To learn more about ULI Hawai‘i and their impact, please click here.