John St. Omer, General Manager, Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel
In an interview with Invest:, John St. Omer, general manager of the Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel, discussed shifts in travel demand, evolving guest expectations, and the city’s momentum toward 2026. “There’s strong potential ahead … we’re optimistic and actively preparing to capitalize on what’s ahead.”
What changes over the past year have had the biggest impact on operations at the Philadelphia Marriott Old City?
The biggest shift has been in travel demand. We’ve seen a drop both domestically and internationally, and that’s had ripple effects across the industry. Some of it stems from government decisions that continue to influence how people move and travel.
Workforce availability has also changed. The labor pool is a bit smaller than it was a year ago, and there’s more competition across the board.
What new guest expectations or behaviors have emerged, and how are you adapting?
The shift has been more financial than physical. With lower demand, there’s a different kind of pressure on rates — they fluctuate in response to broader economic conditions.
Guests are more conscious of value. As rates change, expectations shift along with them. It’s less about amenities and more about what people perceive they’re getting for the cost.
How are corporate events, social gatherings, and weddings shaping your business mix?
Weddings are still strong because they’re typically planned a year or two in advance, and people don’t cancel those even during economic downturns. What has changed is the level of expectation. If a guest negotiated a rate before economic conditions shifted, there’s now a greater demand for service to match or exceed that commitment.
Corporate business is more volatile. Meetings can be canceled or pushed back more easily, and virtual platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams are often used instead of in-person gatherings. That said, we’re still actively promoting the value of face-to-face interaction. We saw during the pandemic how much was lost without it, and we continue encouraging clients to come together physically. That’s where stronger relationships are built.
What trends are you seeing in demand for premium amenities, and how do your offerings align with those preferences?
With premium travel, it’s all about delivering the right experience, and that starts with the basics: a quality product, genuine smiles, and a warm, elevated welcome. People arrive here after dealing with airline delays and travel disruptions, especially in our region. We’re often the last stop before they head home or back to the airport, so we take on the responsibility of helping turn around what might’ve been a rough journey. It’s about going above and beyond in every interaction.
How is the Marriott Old City leveraging its historic district location to attract travelers?
That’s one of our biggest advantages. We’re in what I consider the best part of the city — quieter, more walkable, and filled with character. There’s more foot traffic than vehicle traffic, thanks to cobblestone streets that naturally slow cars and reduce noise.
We’re just a block from the river, with scenic views looking across to New Jersey. That proximity draws both leisure travelers and corporate guests who might otherwise stay in Center City, where it’s busier and less relaxed.
The area is also rich in history, with major attractions within walking distance. And it’s a fantastic food destination. Across the street is a restaurant that was once voted the best in the country and still holds a strong reputation. Their reservations open up every 60 to 90 days, and demand stays high.
How do you collaborate with local businesses to enhance the guest experience?
We work closely with many restaurants and also partner with the Visitors Bureau, which helps coordinate sightseeing tours and other activities. These collaborations let us offer guests a more complete and connected experience.
How are you preparing for 2026 with events like the World Cup and America 250 coming to Philadelphia?
Everyone in the city is looking forward to 2026. It’s not just the World Cup — we’re also celebrating America’s Semiquincentennial and honoring the Navy and Marines. There are major events planned, including a significant golf tournament.
There’s a lot of excitement building, and it’s a big opportunity not just for hotels, but for the entire region. Everyone’s gearing up to be part of it.
What is your outlook for the hospitality sector in Philadelphia, and for your hotel specifically?
There’s strong potential ahead. We’re already in discussions about major opportunities for next year, and we’ve secured a number of commitments. It’s promising. Because we’re located right off I-95 — one of the few hotels with that direct access — we’re well positioned to serve guests heading to the stadium and other key venues. We’re optimistic and actively preparing to capitalize on what’s ahead.
