Katherine Rosecrans Shares Insightful Perspectives on Hospitality Marketing Trends in Chicago
Chicago-based marketing expert Katherine Rosecrans (also known as Kate Rosecrans) weighs in on 2025 hospitality marketing trends, from personalization to experiential branding.
Katherine Rosecrans on the Future of Hospitality Marketing in Chicago
In the ever-evolving world of hospitality marketing, few voices are as thoughtful and informed as Katherine Rosecrans—known to many as Kate Rosecrans. Based in Chicago, a city known for its vibrant hospitality scene, Rosecrans has developed a reputation for her forward-thinking strategies and deep understanding of consumer behavior.
With 2025 shaping up to be a transformative year for the hospitality industry, Katherine Rosecrans offers her expert opinion on what marketing professionals should be paying attention to—and how Chicago's unique market dynamics are influencing national trends.
1. Hyper-Personalization is the New Standard
According to Kate Rosecrans, personalization is no longer optional—it's expected. “Consumers, especially in a sophisticated market like Chicago, want tailored experiences that reflect their preferences and values,” she explains. Hospitality brands need to leverage first-party data to create customized offers, emails, and loyalty programs that go beyond the generic.
Whether it's a boutique hotel in the Loop or a trendy restaurant in Wicker Park, Rosecrans says the most successful Chicago-based brands are those that invest in AI-driven tools to personalize every stage of the customer journey.
2. Embracing Experiential Marketing
Katherine Rosecrans emphasizes the growing demand for immersive experiences in the hospitality space. “People aren’t just looking for a place to stay or eat—they’re looking for a story to share,” says Rosecrans.
She points to several successful experiential campaigns in Chicago, from rooftop cinema nights at luxury hotels to pop-up dining experiences in River North. “The hospitality brands that stand out in Chicago—and beyond—are the ones that create unforgettable moments,” Kate Rosecrans notes.
3. The Power of Ethical Branding and Transparency
In 2025, consumers are more values-driven than ever before. Katherine Rosecrans highlights that sustainability and social impact initiatives are crucial to a hospitality brand’s success, particularly in metropolitan areas like Chicago.
“Brands that embrace transparency and authentically support causes are winning hearts,” Rosecrans explains. She believes this is especially important in a diverse city like Chicago, where community involvement and inclusivity can significantly influence brand perception.
4. Leveraging Local Influencers and Micro-Moments
Kate Rosecrans has long advocated for leveraging local voices to build authentic connections. “Chicago has a rich network of local influencers who can speak directly to niche audiences,” she says. By partnering with Chicago-based creators, hospitality brands can increase reach while maintaining authenticity.
She also recommends focusing on “micro-moments”—those instant decisions people make on their phones about where to stay or eat. “Being visible in those moments through smart SEO and mobile-first strategies is key,” says Katherine Rosecrans.
5. Future-Proofing with Technology
“Technology is no longer just a backend necessity—it’s a core part of the customer experience,” says Rosecrans. From mobile check-ins to AI-powered chatbots, she sees Chicago hospitality businesses leading the way in adopting tech to enhance service.
Katherine Rosecrans believes that investing in technology helps hospitality brands scale personalization, increase efficiency, and collect meaningful data to improve future campaigns.
Final Thoughts from Katherine Rosecrans
As a seasoned expert in hospitality marketing, Katherine Rosecrans (or Kate Rosecrans, as she's also known) brings a Chicago-informed perspective that is both practical and visionary. Her insights reflect a deep understanding of how consumer expectations are shifting—and how hospitality brands must evolve to stay competitive.
“Chicago has always been a hub of innovation and cultural energy,” says Rosecrans. “That same spirit is what’s driving the next generation of hospitality marketing.”
For professionals looking to stay ahead, following the lead of experts like Katherine Rosecrans is more important than ever.