In the News - March 2025

March Member Spotlight

Since 1971, J.R. Hobbs has been a leading force in commercial HVAC services, as well as commercial and multifamily new construction projects.

Our skilled commercial service team specializes in HVAC systems for both multifamily and commercial environments, handling all types of HVAC equipment. We set ourselves apart with outstanding customer service, offering a seamless, high-quality experience for our clients.

When you partner with us, you can trust that we will uphold our Corporate Core Values. We prioritize transparency in every aspect of our collaboration, with integrity at the heart of everything we do, ensuring trust and dependability. Our unwavering commitment to excellence drives us to consistently provide top-tier service.

For more information about JR Hobbs Co-Atlanta LLC please call 844-711-3302.

CFHLA Honors Exceptional Hospitality Front Line Professionals at the Golden Pineapple Awards

On Thursday, February 27th, CFHLA hosted our annual Golden Pineapple Awards dinner and celebration at the Orlando World Center Marriott (Thank you Robert Bray, General Manager).

This year, CFHLA recognized 263 “front line” employees from 67 different Central Florida lodging properties, that were nominated for each of the thirteen categories for their exemplary service and outstanding customer satisfaction throughout 2024. Thank you to Ybeth Bruzual of Spectrum News 13, who served as our guest emcee for the second year in a row for the event which attracted over 950 attendees.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR NOMINEES AND 2025 GOLDEN PINEAPPLE AWARD WINNERS!

Outstanding Food & Beverage Service Employee of the Year

Xzavier Salazar

Holiday Inn Orlando International Airport

Outstanding Front Office Employee of the Year

Catherine Davis

Hyatt Regency Orlando

Outstanding Housekeeping Employee of the Year

Gilaine Pierre

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Outstanding Laundry Employee of the Year

Charming Perez

Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

Outstanding Recreational Employee of the Year

Chevis Earle

Evermore Orlando Resort

Outstanding Security/Loss Prevention Employee of the Year

Magaly Gomez

Sheraton Vistana Villages

Outstanding Steward/Dishwasher Employee of the Year

Maria Leticia Suarez

Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

Each honoree, through generous donations from CFHLA Members, received a large gift basket filled with attraction and entertainment tickets, gift cards and more. Thank you to the following companies who contributed to these honoree baskets including: Aligned Business Services, CEC Entertainment, Experience Kissimmee, Florida Citrus Sports, Florida HIA, Greater Florida Electrical Contractors, Global Sourcing International, LLC, J.R. Hobbs Co- Atlanta, LLC, LandCare, Orlando City Soccer Club, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Orlando Resort.

State of Hospitality & Tourism Explores Industry Trends

On Thursday, February 6, CFHLA partnered with CareerSource Central Florida and STR to host our second annual State of Hospitality & Tourism at the Caribe Royale Orlando.

With more than 350 in attendance, this regional economic forum brought together industry and community leaders, elected officials and news media for an in-depth analysis of the current economic impact, market and workforce trends (including recently updated wages, benefits, demographics, etc.), and share local forecasts for the Central Florida hospitality and tourism industry.

The event featured presentations by Nilda Blanco, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives with CareerSource Central Florida, and Isaac Collazo, Vice President of Analytics with STR.

Here are the top five key takeaways:

As the largest employer in our region, nearly 80% of all Central Florida’s occupations are now tied to the leisure and tourism industry. This is a significant opportunity to challenge how we look at careers in the industry and highlight different career paths and non-traditional roles.
Contrary to some perceptions, 90% of job postings are for full-time roles within the industry, which has created numerous opportunities for long-term career paths.
The industry’s wages are very competitive and a launchpad for career advancement. The average entry level wage within the Central Florida hotel and lodging industry is $39,000, which is well above the average Central Florida entry level wage of $31,000. Many positions come with competitive wages, benefits and clear pathways for professional development.
Data shows the market is strong in Central Florida but still recovering from the peak level of visitors staying at our properties in 2019.
There is cautious optimism that 2025 will have stronger demand and growth than 2024, with the opening of new attractions, accommodations, etc.

We look forward to continuing in the spirit of collaboration with our community partners, to strengthen the future outlook of the Central Florida hospitality and tourism industry.