Flywheel news | December 2025 hotel digital marketing news | GCommerce
- Google Search Console average position dropping back down
A few months ago we shared that the average position sharply increased for many sites when Google made that number 100 change blocking a lot of automated queries. Now it’s being reported that for many sites the number is dropping again, signaling that there may be a workaround for blocking the bots and automated queries. Earlier in December many sites were seeing a drop in their average position while impressions skyrocketed again, and marketer Glenn Gabe speculates some scrapers are now getting through. Armed with this information, GCommerce remains diligent in reviewing Search Console data for all clients and will provide updates as needed. Learn more.
- 2026 digital marketing trends & predictions for hotels and resorts
As we step into 2026, hospitality marketing is entering a new era shaped by connected data, transparent pricing, first-party intelligence, and metasearch performance. Travelers now expect immediate answers, consistent rates across channels, and personalized experiences rooted in real intent. While that may seem like a lot to keep track of, we’ve outlined a 2026 forecast of trends to showcase how we anticipate marketing to evolve in the New Year. Learn more.
- How your property can show up in GEN AI search results
GEN AI search, built using LLMs or large language models, are quickly becoming the new front door for travel discovery. Instead of scrolling through ten pages of links, guests are now asking GEN AI-powered search engines for personal recommendations, trip plans, and the best properties for specific needs. While this shift creates opportunity for hotels and resorts, it can be hard to know where to start. The experts at GCommerce have presented an easy start-guide of how a hotel can strengthen their presence across GEN AI and increase direct bookings. Read more here.
- Google: Optimization for AI Search is the same as for traditional search
In a recent interview Nick Fox, SVP of Knowledge and Information at Google, stated that optimization for AI search is the same as what you do for web search and traditional SEO. While there has always been a lot of evidence to support this claim, hearing it from a key player at Google solidifies the strategies that many marketers already had in place. The article also dives into some key takeaways on how to better rank for AI in Search (great content = great site) and learnings from the first several months of AI Mode. Read more.
- The future of travel is Gen-Z: Smart tech, self-care, and social discovery
Skyscanner, a leading global travel booking site, recently released their 2026 travel trends report, highlighting cultural forces and emerging behaviors defining how Gen-Z will travel in the coming year. Key takeaways included that a large majority of the general are planning more trips abroad in 2026 than previous years, 40% of Gen-Z seek beauty treatments and stores while traveling (#BeautyTok), more young people are using travel to meet people, and the use of AI to plan and book trips continues to rise. Learn more.
