TakeUp CTO Featured in Hotel Dive

posted on December 01, 2025
TakeUp CTO Featured in Hotel Dive

TakeUp CTO Shares His Thoughts on How AI is Leveling the Playing Field for Independent Hotels

Hotel Dive published a new thought leadership byline by Chris McPherson, Co-Founder and CTO of TakeUp, on how small and independent hotels can use AI to compete with (and even outmaneuver) major chains and properties. Escalate PR has been working with TakeUp to elevate their thought leadership, brand awareness and highlight how AI-powered dynamic pricing software can help independent hotels grow their revenue.

What Chris Says

“Instead of guessing which channels deserve attention, AI can analyze past performance and recommend where to invest. For a small property with limited dollars, this kind of guidance makes one’s marketing spend far more efficient.”

Why It Matters

This byline lands at a pivotal moment in hospitality.

Large chains are investing heavily in enterprise AI and data teams, but independent hotels often struggle to keep up, leaving 30% or more of potential revenue unrealized.

McPherson’s piece breaks down a clear, four-step modernization path that shows independents how to:

  • Test and improve AI search visibility using tools like ChatGPT and Gemini
  • Use AI to clean up spreadsheets, simplify operations, and handle routine guest questions
  • Adopt revenue-driving tools such as AI-powered pricing systems
  • Refine marketing spend with AI-based channel recommendations

The result: Independent hotel properties can adopt faster, pivot sooner, and generate measurable revenue gains long before large brands finish their next system rollout.

This article positions TakeUp as a practical innovator in hospitality tech and highlights how AI can deliver immediate, low-lift wins to operators of any size.

Want to Learn More?

You can read the full article on Hotel Dives website: https://www.hoteldive.com/news/hotel-brand-artificial-intelligence-marketing/806635/

FAQ’s

How did Escalate PR support this Hotel Dive byline?

Escalate PR partnered with TakeUp to shape the narrative, develop the content, and secure placement with Hotel Dive as an exclusive byline positioning TakeUp as a leading voice in AI-driven hospitality innovation.

What PR value deos a thought leadership byline like this provide?

This type of thought leadership elevates TakeUp’s CTO as a subject-matter expert, with a firm grasp of what independent properties are facing today. This piece gives the TakeUp sales and marketing teams a reusable thought-leadership asset and key positioning in the highly competitive hospitality tech marketplace.

How does Escalate PR help hospitality tech companies differentiate their stories?

By grounding messaging in market realities like AI adoption gaps, revenue opportunities, and operational efficiency, Escalate PR helps clients speak directly to the pain points that property owners, operators and brands care about, turning complex technology into compelling, actionable content.

Looking to elevate your hospitality brand?

Escalate PR helps hotel tech companies build industry visibility through senior-led PR strategy, narrative development, and AI-optimized content that earns industry-leading placements.
Book time with our team to explore how we can help.