Justin Knight, CEO of Apple Hospitality REIT, Inc. (NYSE: APLE), sat down for a video interview at Nareit’s REITweek: 2026 Investor Conference in New York, June 1-4.
Knight said the company’s performance has exceeded expectations so far this year, with demand strengthening across leisure, business transient, and group segments. Occupancy gains have been evident both mid-week and on weekends, helping support an optimistic outlook for RevPAR growth over the balance of the year, he noted.
Knight also pointed to the FIFA World Cup as a potential incremental demand driver, noting that Apple has exposure to every U.S. market where games are expected. “Our team’s been incredibly focused on maximizing the opportunity,” he said, adding that the company is in close contact with its commercial teams to be well positioned as the tournament unfolds.
On capital allocation, Knight said Apple remains focused on dispositions, with proceeds directed toward acquisitions or share repurchases depending on market pricing. Looking ahead, forward bookings remain the company’s most important indicator. “Today the momentum is positive,” Knight said, signaling confidence in favorable lodging demand trends through year-end.