As Tourism, Hospitality and Leisure (THL) businesses clamber to take advantage of global industry momentum, security and privacy measures are heightening and conscientious consumers are pressing forward with "greener" demands. Meanwhile, industry providers are balancing ways to lower costs while creating personalized and convenient experiences that enhance time-sensitive lifestyles. This customer-centric approach is becoming ever more critical in achieving brand differentiation in a marketplace that is "transparent" and increasingly complex. The primary criterion for industry winners: responsiveness to change.

The latest THL report, Industry Trends 2008, highlights five hot trends that are having a significant impact on industry expectations, growth strategies and brand performance. Topics include globalization; the changing customer; safety, privacy and security; technology's new role; and environmental and social responsibility. In the report, results are revealed from the October 2007 Deloitte & Touche USA LLP Online Travel Survey. THL businesses that adapt quickly to varying market trends while maintaining a laserlike focus on the consumer will be better equipped to weather the upcoming challenges and thrive.