Adaptability, rate integrity and people are the key to success in 2006, according to Caterer's Hotelier of the Year 2006.

Speaking at the Master Innholders General Managers' Conference in London last week, John Stauss picked out some key resolutions to help improve and build business in 2006.

"Creating our own superstars by getting the right people in the right jobs is vital," he said. He believed this would enable the next generation of hoteliers to be skilled, creative and innovative business managers.

Stauss, general manager of London's Four Seasons hotel, warned that this could be achieved only by creating a "magical workplace where dignity, recognition, mentoring, celebrating success and creating camaraderie are valued". He said staff would need to use these skills to maximise potential opportunities in the run-up to the London Olympics in 2012.

Stauss recognised the need for flexible hotel management, particularly after the recent shocks on tourism caused by terrorism, natural disasters and epidemics. However, he warned hoteliers to avoid the temptation to discount room rates as this only devalued the product.

"Much better to believe in your product, train your staff, highlight worthwhile value to your customers and simply say no to lowering rates," he added.

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