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The Rise of AI-Planned Travel in 2026
TakeUp, a revenue engine for independent hospitality properties that pairs collaborative AI with dedicated human oversight, today released The Rise of AI-Planned Travel in 2026, a new consumer research report based on a survey of 300 U.S. travelers who took at least one overnight leisure trip in the past year. The study explores how travelers are using artificial intelligence to plan, research, and book their trips, and what that shift means for hotels and lodging operators.
Powered by survey platform Pollfish, TakeUp gathered responses that reveal a traveler audience that is highly aware of AI (90 percent), increasingly comfortable using it, and already relying on it to compare prices, evaluate accommodations, and make booking decisions. The research also surfaced key points of friction – 55 percent of respondents have yet to use an AI tool for travel planning activities – including concerns around accuracy, real-time pricing, and personalization, which will shape how AI tools evolve next.
“Travelers are no longer just browsing with AI, they’re using it to make real decisions about where to go, where to stay, and what to book,” said Bobby Marhamat, CEO of TakeUp. “This research makes it clear that AI is becoming a primary gateway for travel discovery, and if your property is not showing up in AI recommendations, you are losing visibility and bookings.”
The research shows that AI is already shaping how travelers discover hotels and experiences, with a large majority of travelers (86%) having used AI to find or book accommodations. It’s also shaping conversion. When travelers receive a hotel recommendation from an AI tool they trust, a clear majority said it directly increases their likelihood of booking that property, with 60% reporting they would be somewhat more likely to book and another 23% saying they would be “much more likely.” This underscores how quickly trusted AI is becoming a meaningful driver of bookings.
The Rise of AI-Planned Travel in 2026 revealed that:
- AI Awareness Is Nearly Universal: 90% of travelers are aware that AI tools can help plan or book travel, signaling broad familiarity with AI-powered planning.
- Once Travelers Try AI, They Keep Using It: Among travelers who have used AI for trip planning, 63% rely on it for most or every trip, and 96% say they will probably or definitely use it again.
- Price Comparison Is a Primary Use Case: 35% of travelers say AI is most helpful for comparing prices across flights, hotels, and activities, highlighting pricing as a critical decision driver.
- Strong Trust and Satisfaction: 94% of AI users trust AI-generated travel recommendations at least as much as other sources (e.g., search engines, travel sites) and 96% report being somewhat or very satisfied with the recommendations they receive.
- AI Influences Booking Decisions: More than three-quarters of AI users have booked travel based primarily on an AI recommendation and 84% say a trusted AI recommendation would make them more likely to book a specific hotel.
- Non-Users Are Open to Adoption: Travelers who have not yet used AI cite satisfaction with existing methods and lack of awareness as top barriers, but most say they would try AI if it saved time or money.
The survey also highlights how traveler expectations are evolving. Future demand centers on more proactive and personalized AI capabilities, including real-time price alerts, smarter recommendations based on past travel behavior, and tools that adapt plans as conditions change.
“This data makes one thing clear,” said Kourtney Thomas, Head of Customer Success at TakeUp. “AI is changing guest behavior faster than most independent properties expect. The properties that win will be the ones that make it easy to understand what’s included, what’s unique, and why the stay is worth it.”
The full The Rise of AI-Planned Travel in 2026 report is available for download here:
https://cxpho.share.hsforms.
com/2pxCONR1qSPK_VXiG4AuJwQ About TakeUp
TakeUp is the AI-powered revenue optimization partner for independent stays. Purpose-built for properties without data science teams or big-brand budgets, TakeUp stands apart by pairing enterprise-grade AI with dedicated revenue experts, driving an average 20% revenue increase and saving operators up to 15 hours a week on manual pricing. Founded in 2022, TakeUp’s mission is to give independent stays powerful, approachable tools to help them compete and win in a fast-moving market.
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New STEM Graphic Novel Blends Adventure With Real Hands-On Science
The gap between science fiction, graphic novels and hands-on, experiential science is finally being bridged with the introduction of The Spark Experiment, a groundbreaking full-color interactive graphic novel that promises more than just adventure. The Spark Experiment releases on April 28, 2026.
Created by High Touch High Tech – SCIENCE MADE FUN!, a global leader in hands-on science enrichment programming for children, this high-energy sci-fi adventure includes safe, fully guided innovative STEM experiments that readers can perform at home—turning scientific concepts from the story into exciting, immersive experiences. This unique format fills a long-standing gap in the children’s graphic novel market, offering educators, librarians, and young readers an engaging, science-driven adventure that inspires curiosity and makes learning interactive.
Fifth grader David Patel and his spirited second-grade neighbor Marta Martinez, uncover a science experiment gone wrong and are suddenly transported to the mysterious Micro Universe—a strange dimension where the laws of physics no longer apply. With the help of a curious creature named Spark, they manage to return home… not realizing they’ve accidentally brought back a dangerous threat: Negatrons, energy-draining beings intent on invading their town. As they spread, David, Marta, and Spark must use creativity, problem-solving, and 18 real do-it-yourself science experiments—all of which readers can perform themselves—to save their community and learn to “spark” their own imaginations along the way.
Known for bringing dynamic, experiment-based science programs to students worldwide, High Touch High Tech’s mission aligns perfectly with the book’s commitment to making science fun, accessible, and experiential. Written by acclaimed authors Matthew K. Manning and Matthew Loux, The Spark Experiment marks an exciting step forward for STEM-based graphic storytelling, opening the door for a new generation of readers who crave exploration, creativity, and discovery.
ABOUT HIGH TOUCH HIGH TECH
High Touch High Tech – SCIENCE MADE FUN! is a global leader in hands-on science enrichment programming for children. With 35 franchise locations in 12 countries, High Touch High Tech brings engaging, curriculum-aligned science experiences directly to schools, camps, preschools, and special events. For over 30 years, the company has empowered children to explore science through interactive experiments that spark curiosity, foster critical thinking, and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Through long-standing partnerships with family-focused brands like Royal Caribbean, JW Marriott, and Beaches Resorts, High Touch High Tech continues to make science meaningful, accessible, and FUN for millions of young learners worldwide.
High Touch Entertainment was created by founder Daniel Shaw as a way of offering additional science content to kids beyond the High Touch High Tech franchise territories. To differentiate from other science books on the market, Shaw instead landed on the development of a science comic book, with real science experiments wrapped in a compelling story.
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Perricone MD Relaunches the Neuropeptide Collection, Spotlighting Two Targeted Serums for Visible Lifting and Deep Wrinkle Reduction
Perricone MD today announces the relaunch of its Neuropeptide Collection, marking a new era of intelligent skincare engineered to visibly reduce the most advanced signs of aging. With nearly 30 years of research, clinically proven results, and a holistic philosophy rooted in beauty from the inside-out and outside-in, the reimagined collection delivers skincare with experience through formulas created to support skin shaped by time and expression.
At the core of the collection is Perricone MD’s long-standing expertise in neuropeptide science, an approach pioneered by founder Dr. Nicholas Perricone, one of the first to use neuropeptides in topical skincare for their high-performing benefits. These powerful, protein-like building blocks help unite surface cells and visibly reduce wrinkle depth. Formulated with the brand’s most advanced neuropeptide technology and next-generation biotech ingredients, including biomimetic growth factor peptides, this targeted collection improves elasticity, lift, and contour in areas prone to sagging or creasing. Together, these precision-driven actives deliver visible results that honor both the skin and the story it tells.
The Neuropeptide Deep Crease Serum is designed for areas most prone to etched-in, repetitive movement, addressing frown lines, smile lines, nasolabial folds, and creases around the eyes, lips, and forehead. It works to smooth the appearance of deep-set wrinkles, improve surface uniformity, and reinforce the skin’s look of density and structural resilience, particularly in high-movement zones. Plant Stem Cells, derived from a rare Swiss apple, work alongside the peptides to further promote thickness and support overall smoothness and resiliency.
The Neuropeptide Eyelid Lift Serum is an ultra-lightweight, fast-absorbing formula created for one of the most delicate and expressive areas of the face: the upper eyelid. It visibly smooths eyelid creases, crepiness, and uneven texture, while reducing the look of drooping or sagging lids. Over time, the eye area appears lifted, defined, and more awake. In addition to the core peptide technology, the serum features Perricone MD’s patented Acyl-Glutathione, which helps to replenish fragile skin, reduce the look of creases, and reveal a smoother, more youthful appearance.
“The reimagined Neuropeptide Collection represents what Perricone MD has always stood for, skincare guided by experience, science, and results,” said Lance Patterson, Global President of Perricone MD. “With decades of research behind our neuropeptide technology, this relaunch marks a new era of intelligent skincare designed to support skin as it evolves. These formulas are created to visibly lift, smooth, and define, addressing the realities of mature skin with precision, respect, and proven expertise.”
The Neuropeptide Deep Crease Serum (1 US fl. oz. / $189) and Neuropeptide Eyelid Lift Serum (0.5 US fl. oz. / $129) are now available for purchase on PerriconeMD.com and select retail partners. Both products are suitable for all skin types.
About Perricone MD
For nearly 30 years, Perricone MD has been a holistic, three-tier skincare and wellness system. This consists of diet, essential dietary supplements and potent topical skincare solutions backed by powerful ingredients, cutting-edge research and extensive clinical and consumer studies.
Perricone MD was created by Dr. Nicholas Perricone, world-renowned author of New York Times bestseller, The Wrinkle Cure. Dr. Perricone’s seminal work challenged the prevailing norms of the skincare industry with its visionary approach to aging and introduction to the advantages of a healthy lifestyle.
Perricone MD is driven by the pursuit of fearless innovation and a stubbornly uncompromising spirit of excellence. Good enough has never been good enough—a belief that drives our commitment to consistently deliver targeted results. We continuously seek the truth in unlocking the powerful science behind healthy-looking skin, from the inside-out and outside-in.
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Zesty Paws Expands into Veterinary Channel with Launch of Professional Line Featuring Digestive and Healthy Aging Innovations
Zesty Paws, an H&H Group brand and award-winning leader in pet supplements, today announced its official expansion into the veterinary channel with the launch of Zesty Paws® Professional™, a new product line developed exclusively for veterinary recommendation. The Professional line debuts with two targeted innovations—Native Canine Probiotic™ for digestive support and Healthy Aging NAD+ Precursor for longevity—each supported by dedicated veterinary distribution partnerships.
This milestone marks Zesty Paws’ first formal entry into veterinary-exclusive channels, extending the brand’s science-first approach beyond retail and e-commerce into clinical settings.
Zesty Paws® Professional™ Native Canine Probiotic™
Zesty Paws® Professional™ Native Canine Probiotic™ is a veterinary-formulated digestive solution designed to support dogs experiencing occasional diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset. The formula features canine-native probiotic strains originally sourced from healthy dogs, allowing them to effectively function within the canine digestive system. Currently, it is the only probiotic on the market developed with this canine-native approach and will be distributed in partnership with epiq Animal Health to their veterinary network.
Targeted benefits include:
- Clinically Studied Digestive & Stool Support: Studied for its ability to support a healthy gut microbiome, improve stool quality, and help manage occasional diarrhea.
- Fast-Acting Diarrhea Support: Because the probiotics are native to the canine digestive system, they are designed to work quickly and efficiently.
- Immune System Support: Provides 6 million CFU per packet in a veterinarian-formulated meal topper suitable for small, medium, and large dogs.
It is powered by Zesty Paws’ proprietary Canine TripleShield™, that has been scientifically studied* to support healthy fecal scores and digestive balance within 7 days, the formula is designed to help balance gut bacteria and strengthen the gut’s cell lining.
In preclinical trials, the majority of dogs developed healthier intestinal microbiome populations, and improved stool consistency and fecal scores. This science-driven solution is introduced through a vet-exclusive 7-day protocol for dogs experiencing occasional diarrhea, with a complementary daily maintenance option available through retail and e-commerce to support ongoing digestive health and flexible, long-term use.
With the introduction of Native Canine Probiotic™, Zesty Paws® further expands its portfolio as the official probiotic line of the American Kennel Club®, reinforcing its commitment to canine-specific digestive health.
*based on early clinical data conducted on a small sample, 2025.
Zesty Paws® Professional Healthy Aging NAD+ Precursor
The Zesty Paws® Professional Healthy Aging NAD+ Precursor, powered by Niagen® and distributed in partnership with Durvet to their extensive national veterinary network, is designed to deliver targeted benefits aligned with the needs of aging dogs such as:
- Cellular Support During the Aging Process: It is developed to provide the fuel cells needed to help support cellular tissue and muscle health as dogs age, addressing foundational aspects of longevity and vitality.
- Supporting Energy and Metabolism: It helps provide energy for healthy cell metabolism while supporting cells at the molecular level, contributing to overall metabolic efficiency.
- Supporting Muscle, Neurological, and Immune Health: It may help support cellular energy production that benefits muscle maintenance, neurological function, and immune health—key areas of concern in aging dogs.
NAD+ declines as dogs age, which impacts cellular function. Supplementation with Niagen® (Nicotinamide riboside) helps restore NAD+ levels to support healthy aging. This supplement can be integrated into a patient’s daily regimen to help maintain physiological resilience and promote healthier aging outcomes in canine patients.
Strategic Expansion into Veterinary Channels
“At Zesty Paws®, innovation starts with science and delivers tangible impact, and our entry into the veterinary channel is a natural evolution of that commitment,” said Akash Bedi, CEO for North America, Middle East and India at H&H Group. “With Zesty Paws® Professional™, we’re bringing veterinarians clinically informed solutions that address real-world needs—from acute digestive care to long-term healthy aging—while maintaining the quality and trust pet parents already know.”
For Zesty Paws®, the professional line complements its existing portfolio and will be available starting January 2026. The launch builds on the brand’s established credibility while allowing Zesty Paws® to thoughtfully broaden its reach into professional settings, creating new opportunities for collaboration with veterinary partners, while its existing portfolio, will continue to serve millions of pet parents through retail and e-commerce.
*based on early clinical data conducted on a small sample, 2025.
About Zesty Paws
At Zesty Paws®, we are wellness nerds with a non-stop obsession for pet health—meaning we do the research, sweat the small stuff, and skip the junk. The result? Bite-Sized. Pet Science.™ As an award-winning pet supplement brand beloved by besties and trusted by pet parents, helping pets live a Zestful life is more than just a promise—it’s our science-driven method for everything we do.
Zesty Paws® is proud to be the official probiotic line of the American Kennel Club®, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to canine-specific science and trusted standards in pet wellness. Zesty Paws® is also a member of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) and proudly displays the NASC Quality Seal on its products.
For more information about Zesty Paws®, visit ZestyPaws.com or follow along on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.
About epiq Animal Health
epiq Animal Health is a solutions provider, value-added distributor, and strategic partner for manufacturers in the animal health industry. They create efficiencies for the supply chain, partner for success with product management, and deliver on the go-to market strategy. By using industry insights and relationships, they find paths to success in distribution channels. Learn more at epiqah.com.About Durvet
Founded in 1970, Durvet is a leading animal health distributor and pioneer of the centralized OTC supply chain model. The company offers a diversified portfolio across livestock, equine, and pet health categories and operates from a 150,000-square-foot headquarters in Blue Springs, Missouri, with advanced logistics capabilities. Durvet supports more than 50 member distribution points through a nationwide network of 750+ sales professionals, delivering animal health solutions to customers across the United States.You May Also Like
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Families can now use SmileScan™, a free AI-powered oral health scan offered by Dentistry.One, to identify potential areas of concern and receive an overall oral health score
Dentistry.One, a virtual-first dental care solution, today announced a new partnership with America’s ToothFairy, a nonprofit dedicated to improving access to dental care and oral health resources for children in need.
Through the partnership, families can use Dentistry.One’s SmileScan™, an AI-powered oral health scan that reviews photos of the teeth and gums and delivers a clear report in minutes. The report highlights areas of concern and flags common issues such as tartar buildup, gum inflammation, and gum recession.
America’s ToothFairy works with nonprofit, safety-net dental clinics and community partners nationwide to connect children to dental care. The nonprofit supports underserved communities through a focus on access, prevention, and education, including funding, oral care products, equipment, and free resources for Dental Resource Program member clinics and other community programs that serve children in need.
“For many families, accessing dental care isn’t always easy,” said Brant Herman, Founder and CEO of Dentistry.One and MouthWatch. “Provider availability, differences in Medicaid participation, cost pressures, and transportation challenges can all play a role. SmileScan helps flag potential issues early and gives families a clear next step—whether that’s connecting with a dentist online or getting help finding and booking care nearby—so kids can get the right care sooner, when it can make the biggest difference.”
When virtual care is needed, a Dentistry.One dentist is available. When in-person treatment is required, care coordinators help families find and book nearby, in-network dental providers.
“This partnership helps families move from concern to care with less delay,” said Jill Malmgren, executive director at America’s ToothFairy. “By sharing SmileScan and Dentistry.One’s virtual services, we are giving families, especially those facing barriers to care, easier access and a faster path to preventive and restorative dental care for their children.”
To learn more, visit dentistry.one.
About Dentistry.One
Dentistry.One is a virtual-first dental care solution from MouthWatch, Inc., created to break down the barriers that prevent millions of people from accessing the dental care they need. Through telehealth, Dentistry.One provides anxiety-free online consultations, AI-powered tools like SmileScan™, and seamless care coordination to help patients take control of their oral and overall health. To learn more, visit https://dentistry.one/.
About America’s ToothFairy
As a resource provider, America’s ToothFairy increases access to oral health care by supporting nonprofit clinics and community partners delivering education, prevention, and treatment services for underserved children. Since 2006, the organization has provided resources to help more than 16 million children and caregivers protect their smiles from tooth decay. Learn more at www.AmericasToothFairy.org. -
Olive & June Expands Retail Distribution in the U.S. With Debut at Ulta Beauty
Olive & June, the leader in accessible, salon-quality at-home nail care, officially announced its nationwide debut at Ulta Beauty, the nation’s largest beauty retailer. Launching in 600 stores across the U.S. and on Ulta.com beginning January 18, 2026, the brand will offer a complete Olive & June DIY nail destination within the retailer including a full range of polish, press-ons, treatments, tools, and an Ulta Beauty exclusive deluxe Gel Mani System. This milestone marks the next phase in Olive & June’s retail growth and mission to make salon-quality nail care accessible to all.
Since launching its first-of-its-kind at-home product line in 2019, Olive & June has made it possible for millions of consumers to achieve salon-quality results from home, building a loyal community of DIY beauty enthusiasts and redefining the nail care industry.
“Beautiful nails for everyone has always been our mission, and we’re thrilled to further expand our distribution from mass to prestige beauty retail with Ulta Beauty,” says Sarah Gibson Tuttle, Founder/CEO of Olive & June. “We have built and led the DIY movement in nails with our all-in-one Mani System and the Olive & June at-home educational method. For the first time ever, we’re offering our signature Mani System in-store exclusively at Ulta Beauty. They’re the perfect partner to bring our vision of a premium DIY nail destination to life. Their community loves discovering, testing, and building routines that make them feel great, and we’re so excited to introduce them to Olive & June and their best nail life.”
Olive & June has led the democratization and mass adoption of at-home nail routines. Its entry into Ulta Beauty aligns with growing consumer demand for high-performance DIY solutions and represents the next phase of retail modernization for the category. Ulta Beauty will now offer the fastest-growing nail brand in MULO—including the No. 2 press-ons in the market—for the first time. This addition further differentiates the retailer’s assortment with Olive & June’s superior fit technology at an accessible $10 price point.
“We are so excited to welcome Olive & June to the Ulta Beauty family,” said Kaitlin Rinehart, Vice President of Merchandising, Ulta Beauty. “This launch comes at a moment where the nail category is experiencing remarkable momentum, fueled by our guests’ desire for self-care rituals and everyday moments of self-expression through their beauty routine. As they continue to embrace at-home artistry and elevated nail care, this partnership allows us to bring an even wider range of high-quality, accessible and simple solutions to their routines. We’re thrilled to welcome Olive & June into our assortment and look forward to inspiring our community with new ways to feel confident, creative, and cared for.”
Olive & June products will be available starting January 18 in 600 Ulta Beauty stores nationwide and on Ulta.com. To find Olive & June at an Ulta Beauty location near you, visit https://oliveandjune.
com/pages/find-us-irl About Olive & June
Your BFF for all things nails, Olive & June was founded in 2013 by mani-obsessee Sarah Gibson Tuttle in Beverly Hills, California as an elevated salon experience, delivering personalized attention and luxury service at an approachable price. In 2019 with the mission to bring beautiful nails to everyone, Olive & June introduced a full line of products for a salon-quality experience at home. Through these first-of-their-kind products and educational content, Olive & June revolutionized the at-home nail experience. For more information, visit www.oliveandjune.com.
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