Turning Hotel Attrition Into Opportunity: How We Saved a Client—and Their Event
Attrition penalties can feel like the end of the world for event planners—but with the right strategy, they can become an opportunity. That’s exactly what happened when one of our DEI-focused clients faced a sudden drop in attendance for their upcoming event in New Orleans.
The Situation: A Drop in Attendance, A Spike in Risk
Originally, the event was contracted for over 3,300 room nights at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel from October 10–15, 2025. But when widespread budget cuts hit higher education DEI initiatives, projected attendance dropped from 1,000 to just 500 participants.
The math wasn’t looking good: the client was now facing a shortfall of more than 1,300 room nights. Attrition penalties loomed. The planner was anxious. The hotel was concerned. Everyone stood to lose.
But this is where HotelAttrition.com, powered by HPN Global, steps in.
The Solution: Give the Hotel Back What They Can Sell
Rather than panicking, we did what we do best—collaborated with the hotel to craft a win-win solution.
Step 1: Releasing Space for Resale
We worked directly with our friends at the Sheraton—especially Scott Jernstrom, a longtime industry partner and Area DOSM for the Sheraton and Marriott New Orleans—to release a significant portion of both guest rooms and meeting space. This included:
- 600 rooms/night (Oct 10–12) and 500 rooms/night (Oct 12–15)
- Prime meeting spaces on the second and third floors, including junior ballrooms, breakout rooms, a private bar/banquet space, and even the massive 24,000 sq. ft. Napoleon Ballroom
By returning this inventory early, we gave the hotel ample time and space to resell it. That not only helps mitigate the client’s liability—it builds goodwill with the hotel and increases flexibility for all sides.
Step 2: Activating Our Sales Force
Of course, released rooms are only part of the puzzle. So, we activated our nationwide network of meeting planners, sourcing partners, and corporate clients to help fill the gap. Our team—affectionately called “The Sharks”—is trained to spot opportunities fast. Anyone looking to book in New Orleans this October? We’re on it.
The Outcome: Collaboration Over Penalties
By working collaboratively and quickly:
- The client is avoiding significant attrition fees
- The hotel gets time to resell prime space and rooms
- Future partnership potential is preserved
This is how we do it at Hotel Attrition. No finger-pointing. No panic. Just proactive, practical solutions that serve everyone involved.
Why This Works
Our approach is powered by:
✅ Decades of hotel negotiation experience
✅ Deep relationships with hotel leadership across the country
✅ The full force of HPN Global’s sourcing engine
✅ A “no cost to the client” model that puts planners first
And most importantly—we don’t just “review contracts.” We roll up our sleeves and solve problems.
Facing a Room Block Crisis?
If your attendance has dropped and your contract hasn’t, don’t wait. Contact us today and let’s find a solution that protects your event—and your budget.