9+ Who Owns Red Roof Inn: Parent Company & More


9+ Who Owns Red Roof Inn: Parent Company & More

Determining the ownership of the Red Roof Inn brand involves understanding its corporate structure. This information is often relevant for investors, franchisees, or those interested in the hospitality industry. For example, understanding the parent company reveals broader financial performance and potential future directions of the brand.

Knowledge of a company’s ownership provides valuable context for analyzing its market position and strategic decisions. This can be crucial for competitive analysis within the hotel sector, as ownership influences brand management, expansion plans, and overall market share. Historical context, including previous owners and major acquisitions, adds depth to this understanding, illuminating the evolution of the brand and its current trajectory.

This understanding of corporate structure provides a foundation for exploring further related topics such as brand history, franchise opportunities, financial performance, and competitive landscape within the budget hospitality sector. Deeper exploration of these areas offers a comprehensive view of the brand’s position in the market.

1. Westmont Hospitality Group

Westmont Hospitality Group holds a crucial position in understanding Red Roof’s ownership. As the parent company, Westmont directly controls and manages the Red Roof brand. This relationship signifies that all major decisions regarding Red Roof’s operations, from marketing and franchising to real estate acquisition and development, ultimately fall under Westmont’s purview. This centralized control allows for consistent brand management and strategic alignment across all Red Roof properties. For instance, Westmont’s investment strategies directly impact Red Roof’s expansion into new markets and property renovations.

Westmont’s influence extends beyond day-to-day operations. Their overall corporate strategy and financial performance significantly affect Red Roof’s trajectory. Westmont’s diversification within the hospitality sector, owning and managing a portfolio of other hotel brands, provides Red Roof with access to resources and expertise that might not be available to a standalone company. This shared infrastructure can lead to cost efficiencies and operational synergies. Conversely, any financial challenges faced by Westmont could potentially impact Red Roof’s resource allocation and future growth plans. Understanding this interconnectedness provides valuable insight into Red Roof’s stability and long-term prospects.

In summary, identifying Westmont Hospitality Group as the owner of Red Roof is not merely a factual detail but a critical piece of information for comprehending the brand’s operational structure, strategic direction, and financial health. This understanding is essential for investors, franchisees, competitors, and anyone analyzing the budget hospitality market. Recognizing the implications of Westmonts ownership allows for a more nuanced and comprehensive assessment of Red Roofs current position and future potential within a competitive landscape.

2. Parent Company

Understanding the concept of a “parent company” is crucial when exploring the ownership of any entity, including Red Roof. The parent company holds a controlling interest in another company, its subsidiary. In the context of “who owns Red Roof,” the parent company plays a defining role, shaping the subsidiary’s strategic direction and financial performance. Examining the parent company provides crucial insights into the subsidiary’s operations, market position, and future prospects.

  • Control and Influence

    A parent company exerts significant control over its subsidiary. This control manifests in various forms, from strategic decision-making and resource allocation to brand management and operational oversight. In the case of Red Roof, its parent company, Westmont Hospitality Group, dictates key aspects of the brand’s operations, including expansion plans, marketing strategies, and financial investments. This influence directly impacts Red Roof’s market presence and competitive positioning.

  • Financial Interdependence

    The financial performance of a parent company often has direct implications for its subsidiaries. The parent company typically consolidates the subsidiary’s financial results into its own reports. This interdependence means that the parent company’s financial health can significantly impact the subsidiary’s access to capital, investment opportunities, and overall financial stability. Westmont’s financial standing, therefore, plays a critical role in Red Roof’s ability to pursue growth initiatives and navigate economic fluctuations.

  • Brand Portfolio and Synergies

    Parent companies often own and operate multiple brands within a specific industry or across diverse sectors. This diversified portfolio can create synergies and economies of scale. Westmont Hospitality Group’s extensive portfolio of hotel brands allows for resource sharing, operational efficiencies, and potentially enhanced brand recognition. These factors can positively influence Red Roof’s cost structure, marketing reach, and overall market competitiveness.

  • Long-Term Strategy and Vision

    A parent company’s long-term strategy and vision typically guide the direction of its subsidiaries. Westmont’s strategic focus on value-driven lodging directly shapes Red Roof’s market positioning and target audience. Understanding the parent company’s overarching goals provides critical context for interpreting the subsidiary’s current operations and future trajectory. This alignment ensures that Red Roof’s development aligns with Westmont’s broader vision for the hospitality market.

Therefore, understanding the role and influence of the parent company, Westmont Hospitality Group, provides essential context for answering the question, “who owns Red Roof?” This knowledge allows for a deeper comprehension of Red Roof’s operational structure, strategic direction, financial health, and competitive position within the budget hospitality market. Analyzing the parent company’s characteristics, from its financial performance and brand portfolio to its long-term vision, offers valuable insights into Red Roof’s present and future trajectory. This holistic understanding is crucial for investors, industry analysts, and anyone seeking a comprehensive perspective on Red Roof’s position within the broader hospitality landscape.

3. Private Ownership

Red Roof’s private ownership under Westmont Hospitality Group significantly shapes its operational structure and strategic decision-making. Private ownership contrasts with public ownership, where a company’s shares are traded on a stock exchange. This distinction carries several implications. Decision-making processes within privately held companies tend to be more centralized and less subject to the demands of external shareholders. This structure allows Red Roof to adapt more quickly to market changes and pursue long-term strategies without the pressure of quarterly earnings reports. For example, investment decisions regarding property renovations or expansion into new markets can be made based on strategic fit rather than immediate shareholder returns. This agility can be a significant advantage in a dynamic industry like hospitality.

The impact of private ownership extends to financial reporting and transparency. Privately held companies are not obligated to disclose financial information to the same extent as publicly traded companies. This lack of public scrutiny provides Red Roof with greater flexibility in managing its finances and pursuing strategic investments. While this structure offers advantages in terms of confidentiality and operational agility, it also limits public access to financial performance data, making it more challenging for external stakeholders to assess the company’s financial health. However, this opacity also shields Red Roof from the short-term market pressures that can sometimes influence publicly traded companies.

In summary, Red Roof’s private ownership under Westmont Hospitality Group is a defining characteristic that influences its operational flexibility, strategic decision-making, and financial transparency. This structure allows for greater agility in responding to market changes and pursuing long-term growth strategies. While the lack of public financial reporting may limit external scrutiny, it also provides a degree of insulation from short-term market pressures. Understanding the implications of private ownership is crucial for analyzing Red Roof’s current market position and projecting its future trajectory within the competitive hospitality landscape.

4. Franchise Model

Red Roof’s utilization of a franchise model is directly linked to its ownership by Westmont Hospitality Group. Franchising allows Red Roof to expand its brand presence and market reach while leveraging the capital and operational expertise of individual franchisees. This model aligns with Westmont’s broader investment strategy, which focuses on maximizing returns while mitigating risk. By granting franchise licenses, Red Roof reduces its direct capital outlay for property development and operations, while simultaneously increasing brand visibility across wider geographic areas. This approach enables rapid expansion without requiring substantial direct investment from the parent company. For example, a franchisee might invest in constructing and operating a new Red Roof Inn, adhering to the brand’s established standards and guidelines, while Westmont benefits from franchise fees and royalties, expanding the brand’s footprint without assuming the full financial burden of property ownership and management.

This franchise model also fosters local market adaptation. Franchisees, often local entrepreneurs, possess valuable insights into regional market dynamics, allowing them to tailor their operations to specific customer needs and preferences. This localized approach can enhance brand relevance and customer satisfaction. For instance, a franchisee in a tourist destination might offer specialized packages or amenities catering to vacationers, while a franchisee in a business district might focus on providing services tailored to corporate travelers. This flexibility allows the brand to cater to diverse market segments while maintaining consistent brand standards. However, the franchise model also presents challenges. Maintaining quality control across a network of independently operated franchises is crucial for upholding brand consistency. Red Roof must implement robust training programs, operational guidelines, and quality assurance measures to ensure that franchisees adhere to brand standards and deliver a consistent customer experience. Failure to do so can negatively impact brand reputation and customer loyalty.

In summary, Red Roof’s franchise model, driven by Westmont’s ownership structure and investment philosophy, plays a significant role in the brand’s expansion strategy and market penetration. While franchising allows for rapid growth and local market adaptation, it also requires careful management to ensure brand consistency and quality control. Understanding the interplay between Red Roof’s franchise model and Westmont’s ownership structure provides crucial insights into the brand’s growth strategy, operational dynamics, and overall market position within the competitive budget hospitality sector. This knowledge is valuable for potential investors, franchisees, and anyone analyzing the dynamics of the hospitality industry.

5. Real estate investment

Real estate investment forms a core component of understanding Red Roof’s business model and its connection to Westmont Hospitality Group. Analyzing Red Roof’s real estate holdings and investment strategies provides key insights into the brand’s financial performance, growth trajectory, and overall market position. This aspect is intrinsically linked to the question of ownership, as it directly influences the brand’s value and long-term sustainability.

  • Property Ownership and Leasing

    Red Roof employs a mixed approach to real estate, owning some properties outright and leasing others. This strategy allows for flexibility in managing capital expenditures and adapting to market conditions. Owning properties provides long-term asset appreciation potential, while leasing offers greater flexibility to enter new markets or exit underperforming locations. The balance between owned and leased properties directly impacts Red Roof’s financial leverage and risk exposure.

  • Strategic Location and Market Analysis

    Red Roof’s real estate investment strategy prioritizes strategic locations that align with the brand’s target market. Properties are often situated near highways, airports, and business districts, catering to budget-conscious travelers. Careful market analysis informs these location decisions, considering factors such as demand, competition, and accessibility. This strategic approach to real estate acquisition contributes directly to Red Roof’s market positioning and revenue generation potential.

  • Property Development and Renovation

    Red Roof invests in property development and renovation to maintain brand standards and enhance property values. Renovations may include upgrades to guest rooms, common areas, and amenities. These investments aim to improve the guest experience, attract new customers, and increase the overall value of the real estate portfolio. The allocation of capital for these projects reflects Red Roof’s commitment to long-term sustainability and market competitiveness.

  • Relationship with Westmont’s Portfolio

    Red Roof’s real estate strategy aligns with Westmont Hospitality Group’s broader investment portfolio. Westmont’s expertise in real estate acquisition, development, and management provides Red Roof with access to resources and expertise that contribute to its overall success. This relationship allows Red Roof to leverage Westmont’s extensive network and experience in the hospitality industry, optimizing its real estate investment decisions.

In conclusion, understanding Red Roof’s approach to real estate investment is essential for comprehending the brand’s financial performance, growth strategy, and overall market position. This aspect is intricately connected to Westmont Hospitality Group’s ownership and broader investment philosophy. Analyzing the interplay between real estate investment and ownership provides valuable insights into Red Roof’s long-term sustainability and competitive advantage within the budget hospitality sector. This knowledge is crucial for investors, analysts, and anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of Red Roof’s business model.

6. Hospitality Industry

The hospitality industry provides crucial context for understanding Red Roof’s ownership and its implications. This industry encompasses a broad range of businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, all focused on customer service and experience. Red Roof, operating within this dynamic and competitive landscape, is significantly influenced by industry trends, economic fluctuations, and consumer preferences. Westmont Hospitality Group’s ownership of Red Roof positions the brand within a larger network of hospitality businesses, impacting its access to resources, market positioning, and overall strategic direction. For example, Westmont’s experience and expertise in the hospitality sector can provide Red Roof with valuable insights into market trends, operational efficiencies, and brand management best practices. This connection also influences Red Roof’s ability to adapt to evolving consumer expectations and competitive pressures within the industry.

Furthermore, the hospitality industry’s cyclical nature directly impacts Red Roof’s performance. Economic downturns can lead to reduced travel and leisure spending, affecting occupancy rates and revenue. Conversely, periods of economic growth can create opportunities for expansion and increased profitability. Westmont’s diversified portfolio within the hospitality sector can provide a degree of resilience against these cyclical fluctuations, mitigating risk and potentially providing access to alternative revenue streams. For instance, during periods of reduced travel, Westmont’s ownership of extended-stay properties might offset declines in traditional hotel occupancy. Understanding these industry dynamics is essential for assessing Red Roof’s financial performance and long-term prospects.

In summary, analyzing Red Roof’s ownership within the broader context of the hospitality industry provides valuable insights into the brand’s operational challenges, opportunities, and strategic direction. Industry trends, economic cycles, and competitive pressures all play a significant role in shaping Red Roof’s performance. Westmont Hospitality Group’s ownership positions Red Roof within a larger network of hospitality businesses, influencing its access to resources, market positioning, and ability to navigate industry-specific challenges. This understanding is crucial for investors, analysts, and anyone seeking a comprehensive perspective on Red Roof’s position within the dynamic and competitive hospitality landscape.

7. Brand Portfolio

Examining Westmont Hospitality Group’s brand portfolio is essential to understanding the implications of its ownership of Red Roof. A brand portfolio represents the collection of brands a company owns and manages. Analyzing this portfolio provides insights into Westmont’s investment strategies, market diversification, and overall corporate direction. This understanding, in turn, sheds light on Red Roof’s position within the larger corporate structure and its potential for future growth and development.

  • Diversification and Risk Mitigation

    Westmont’s brand portfolio spans a range of hotel segments, from budget-friendly to upscale properties. This diversification mitigates risk by reducing reliance on a single market segment. If one segment underperforms, others may compensate, stabilizing overall revenue streams. For Red Roof, this diversified portfolio provides a degree of insulation from economic fluctuations that might disproportionately impact the budget hospitality sector. For instance, Westmont’s ownership of luxury hotels could offset potential declines in Red Roof’s occupancy during economic downturns.

  • Resource Allocation and Synergies

    Managing a diverse brand portfolio allows for resource sharing and potential synergies across brands. Westmont can leverage its expertise in areas such as marketing, operations, and revenue management across its entire portfolio, potentially leading to cost efficiencies and enhanced performance for individual brands like Red Roof. For example, centralized procurement of supplies or shared marketing campaigns could benefit Red Roof by reducing costs and increasing brand visibility.

  • Brand Positioning and Market Segmentation

    Each brand within Westmont’s portfolio occupies a specific position within the broader hospitality market. Understanding these positions clarifies Red Roof’s target market and competitive landscape. This analysis reveals how Westmont strategically segments the market and differentiates its various brands to cater to diverse customer needs and preferences. For instance, Red Roof’s focus on budget-conscious travelers distinguishes it from Westmont’s upscale hotel brands, minimizing internal competition and maximizing market penetration.

  • Long-Term Growth and Investment Strategies

    Westmont’s brand portfolio reflects its long-term growth and investment strategies. Analyzing the types of brands Westmont acquires or develops provides insights into its overall vision for the hospitality market. This understanding illuminates the potential trajectory of brands like Red Roof, indicating potential areas for future investment and expansion. For example, if Westmont focuses on acquiring extended-stay properties, this might suggest a similar direction for Red Roof, reflecting evolving market demands and long-term growth opportunities.

In conclusion, analyzing Westmont Hospitality Group’s brand portfolio provides crucial context for understanding Red Roof’s position, potential, and strategic direction. The portfolio’s diversification, resource allocation strategies, brand positioning, and long-term growth plans all influence Red Roof’s operations and future trajectory. This understanding is essential for investors, industry analysts, and anyone seeking a comprehensive perspective on Red Roof within the broader hospitality landscape.

8. Market Competition

Market competition significantly influences Red Roof’s strategic decisions and operational performance. Understanding the competitive landscape within the budget hospitality sector is crucial for interpreting the implications of Red Roof’s ownership by Westmont Hospitality Group. This competitive landscape comprises various other hotel chains, including Motel 6, Super 8, and Days Inn, each vying for market share within the same target demographic. Westmont’s ownership provides Red Roof with access to resources and expertise that can enhance its competitive advantage. For example, Westmont’s established network within the hospitality industry might provide Red Roof with preferential supplier agreements or access to innovative marketing strategies, enhancing its ability to compete effectively against rivals. Furthermore, Westmont’s financial strength can enable Red Roof to invest in property upgrades, technological advancements, and enhanced customer service initiatives, strengthening its market position relative to competitors. Analyzing the competitive landscape requires considering factors such as pricing strategies, brand differentiation, customer loyalty programs, and geographic coverage. For instance, Red Roof might differentiate itself through pet-friendly policies or enhanced loyalty programs to attract specific customer segments and gain a competitive edge.

The intensity of market competition also influences Red Roof’s pricing strategies and profitability. In highly competitive markets, Red Roof might need to adjust pricing to remain competitive, potentially impacting profit margins. Conversely, in less saturated markets, Red Roof may have greater pricing flexibility. Understanding these dynamics requires analyzing market share, competitor performance, and prevailing industry trends. For example, if a competitor introduces a highly successful loyalty program, Red Roof might need to respond with similar initiatives to retain market share. This competitive pressure can drive innovation and continuous improvement within the budget hospitality sector, ultimately benefiting consumers through enhanced services and competitive pricing. Analyzing competitor strategies, including marketing campaigns, property renovations, and expansion plans, provides valuable insights into the overall market dynamics and potential challenges for Red Roof. For example, if a competitor expands aggressively into new markets, Red Roof might need to adjust its own expansion plans to maintain its market presence.

In summary, market competition represents a critical factor in understanding Red Roof’s performance and the implications of its ownership by Westmont Hospitality Group. Analyzing competitor activities, market share dynamics, and industry trends provides crucial context for evaluating Red Roof’s strategic decisions, pricing strategies, and overall market position. This understanding is essential for investors, analysts, and anyone seeking a comprehensive perspective on Red Roof’s competitive landscape and its potential for sustained success within the budget hospitality industry. Successfully navigating this competitive environment requires continuous adaptation, innovation, and a clear understanding of market dynamics, all of which are influenced by Westmont’s ownership and strategic guidance.

9. Long-Term Strategy

Red Roof’s long-term strategy is inextricably linked to its ownership by Westmont Hospitality Group. Westmont’s overarching corporate goals and investment philosophy directly influence Red Roof’s strategic direction, shaping its growth trajectory and market positioning. This influence manifests in various ways, from investment decisions regarding property acquisitions and renovations to brand management and marketing strategies. Understanding this connection is crucial for assessing Red Roof’s long-term prospects and potential within the competitive budget hospitality market. For instance, Westmont’s focus on value-driven lodging significantly impacts Red Roof’s target market and brand positioning, emphasizing affordability and convenience for budget-conscious travelers. This strategic alignment ensures consistency between the parent company’s vision and the subsidiary’s operational focus.

Westmont’s long-term strategy also considers broader industry trends and economic forecasts. This forward-looking perspective informs Red Roof’s strategic planning, enabling proactive adaptation to evolving market demands and competitive pressures. For example, if Westmont anticipates increased demand for extended-stay accommodations, this might lead Red Roof to invest in developing properties catering to this specific market segment. This proactive approach allows Red Roof to anticipate market shifts and position itself for long-term growth. Furthermore, Westmont’s financial stability and long-term investment horizon provide Red Roof with the resources and stability to pursue strategic initiatives that might not be feasible for smaller, independently owned companies. This financial backing enables Red Roof to invest in property upgrades, technology enhancements, and brand-building initiatives, strengthening its competitive position and supporting long-term growth. Real-life examples of this influence can be seen in Red Roof’s expansion into new markets, its investments in property renovations, and its focus on developing innovative services such as pet-friendly accommodations and enhanced loyalty programs, all reflecting Westmont’s strategic guidance.

In conclusion, analyzing Red Roof’s long-term strategy requires understanding the crucial role of Westmont Hospitality Group’s ownership and overarching corporate vision. This connection influences key strategic decisions, resource allocation, and the brand’s overall trajectory within the competitive hospitality landscape. Recognizing the interplay between ownership and long-term strategy provides valuable insights for investors, analysts, and anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of Red Roof’s potential for sustained success. This understanding allows stakeholders to assess the brand’s ability to adapt to evolving market dynamics, navigate competitive pressures, and capitalize on emerging opportunities within the budget hospitality sector. The practical significance of this understanding lies in its ability to inform investment decisions, predict market trends, and assess the long-term viability of Red Roof within a dynamic and competitive industry. Successfully analyzing Red Roof’s future prospects requires a holistic approach that considers both its individual brand strategies and the overarching influence of its parent company’s long-term vision.

Frequently Asked Questions about Red Roof Ownership

This section addresses common inquiries regarding Red Roof’s ownership structure, providing clarity and dispelling potential misconceptions.

Question 1: Is Red Roof a publicly traded company?

No. Red Roof is privately held by Westmont Hospitality Group and its shares are not traded on any stock exchange.

Question 2: What is Westmont Hospitality Group?

Westmont Hospitality Group is a privately held company specializing in hotel ownership and management. It operates a diverse portfolio of hotel brands across various market segments.

Question 3: How does Westmont’s ownership influence Red Roof’s operations?

Westmont’s ownership influences Red Roof’s strategic direction, financial decisions, and brand management. This includes decisions related to expansion, renovations, and marketing strategies.

Question 4: Does Red Roof own all of its properties?

No. Red Roof utilizes a mixed approach to real estate, owning some properties outright and leasing others. This strategy offers flexibility in managing capital expenditures and adapting to market conditions.

Question 5: How does the franchise model impact Red Roof?

The franchise model enables Red Roof to expand its brand presence while leveraging the capital and operational expertise of individual franchisees. This approach facilitates growth without substantial direct investment from Westmont.

Question 6: Where can one find more information about Westmont Hospitality Group?

Information regarding Westmont Hospitality Group, due to its private nature, is often limited. Financial news outlets and industry publications may offer periodic insights into the company’s activities.

Understanding Red Roof’s ownership structure provides valuable context for analyzing its market position and strategic decisions. This knowledge is essential for potential investors, franchisees, and anyone interested in the hospitality industry.

For further exploration, the subsequent section delves into Red Roof’s history and evolution within the hospitality sector.

Understanding Red Roof Through Ownership Research

Researching “who owns Red Roof” offers valuable insights beyond simple ownership details. It provides a foundation for understanding the brand’s operational structure, financial stability, and strategic direction. The following tips offer guidance on leveraging this research for a comprehensive understanding.

Tip 1: Investigate the Parent Company’s Portfolio: Exploring Westmont Hospitality Group’s brand portfolio reveals diversification strategies and potential synergies. This offers insights into Red Roof’s competitive advantages and resource allocation.

Tip 2: Analyze Financial Performance: While Westmont’s private status limits public access to financial data, industry reports and news articles can offer valuable insights into its financial health, indirectly impacting Red Roof’s stability.

Tip 3: Understand the Franchise Model: Researching Red Roof’s franchise agreements provides insights into expansion strategies, operational structure, and potential risks associated with brand consistency across franchised locations.

Tip 4: Assess Market Competition: Analyzing Red Roof’s competitors within the budget hospitality sector reveals market dynamics, pricing strategies, and brand differentiation. This clarifies Red Roof’s competitive position and potential challenges.

Tip 5: Evaluate Real Estate Holdings: Researching Red Roof’s property ownership and leasing strategies provides insights into its financial leverage, risk exposure, and long-term investment approach.

Tip 6: Consider Industry Trends: Staying informed about hospitality industry trends, economic forecasts, and evolving consumer preferences provides context for understanding Red Roof’s strategic decisions and potential for future growth.

Tip 7: Review Historical Performance: Researching Red Roof’s historical performance, including past acquisitions, renovations, and market expansions, reveals patterns and potential indicators of future strategic direction.

Leveraging these research tips provides a comprehensive understanding of Red Roof, extending beyond basic ownership information to encompass strategic analysis, financial health assessments, and market positioning insights. This knowledge is beneficial for investors, analysts, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the brand’s dynamics within the competitive hospitality landscape.

The following conclusion synthesizes the key findings of this exploration into Red Roof’s ownership and its broader implications.

Conclusion

Exploring the question of Red Roof’s ownership reveals a multifaceted understanding of the brand’s position within the hospitality industry. Westmont Hospitality Group’s private ownership significantly influences Red Roof’s operational structure, strategic decisions, and long-term vision. The franchise model, real estate investment strategies, and competitive landscape all play crucial roles in shaping Red Roof’s performance and trajectory. Analyzing these interconnected factors provides valuable context for assessing the brand’s financial stability, market positioning, and potential for future growth. This understanding extends beyond simple ownership details to encompass a comprehensive analysis of the brand’s dynamics within a competitive market.

The implications of Red Roof’s ownership extend beyond the present. Westmont’s long-term strategy and investment philosophy will continue to shape Red Roof’s evolution within the dynamic hospitality landscape. Continuous monitoring of industry trends, competitive pressures, and Westmont’s broader portfolio activity provides crucial insights for anticipating Red Roof’s future trajectory and potential for sustained success. This ongoing assessment remains essential for investors, analysts, and anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of Red Roof’s position within the ever-evolving hospitality industry.