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Trends Shaping the Future of Hospitality

August 26, 2024

The hospitality industry is rapidly evolving. Driven by shifts in consumer preferences, the evolution of artificial intelligence and sustainability demands, these emerging trends are not only redefining how planners can engage with hotels but also how these trends are impacting operations for those within the industry.

Here are a few game-changing trends worth noting:

Adopting renewable energy: More meetings are seeking eco-friendly experiences that align with their values. To respond to this growing trend, hospitality businesses are adopting renewable energy options like solar, wind and geothermal, which not only reduce their carbon footprint but also enhance efficiency and appeal to sustainability-minded guests. While challenges such as funding and space constraints exist, the long-term benefits, including cost savings and energy stability, make green energy investments a smart move for the industry.

The sustainable traveler: Sustainability is increasingly important in hospitality as more companies look for eco-friendly practices from hotels and other businesses. This trend extends beyond restaurants serving veggie or vegan dishes or how the lighting in hotel guestrooms can conserve energy. Now hotel essentials like towels and bedsheets are made from sustainable materials. According to Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report, 76 percent of travelers prioritize sustainable travel, highlighting that this shift is more than just a trend—it’s a key factor for many people today.

Wellness: Today’s business and incentive traveler is prioritizing health and wellness by selecting destinations that offer well-being experiences like healthy meals, fitness classes, meditation and lifestyle coaching. These wellness-focused vacations allow them to return home feeling rejuvenated and inspired, rather than just ticking off sightseeing spots. The growing demand for such experiences reflects a shift towards more mindful and health-oriented travel choices.

Harnessing the power of AI: Artificial intelligence is transforming the hospitality industry, especially when it comes to customer service. In addition, meetings & event planners can utilize AI to help streamline bookings for their clients. AI can also optimize restaurant operations, manage inventory and personalize menu recommendations based on customer preferences. By leveraging AI, planners, as well as hotels and restaurants, can deliver efficient services and accommodations, which can improve both operational efficiency and client satisfaction.

Mobile check-in for hotel guests: Thanks to mobile check-in services, guests no longer need to wait in line at the hotel reception desk. By using their smartphones, the convenience of checking into their hotel can happen in the hotel lobby or from the airport simply by using a hotel app. Mobile check-in provides a seamless experience for both guests and hotel staff, reducing wait times and streamlining operations. Hotel mobile apps can offer personalized welcome messages, room upgrades and special offers tailored to each guest’s preferences.

Bleisure is on the rise: Work trips are being redefined with the rise of bleisure travel, where business travelers extend their stays to enjoy leisure activities after completing their work commitments. Whether it’s catching a show, exploring local cuisine or sightseeing, bleisure travelers blend business with pleasure by experiencing new destinations and immersing in local culture.

Virtual reality tours: If your clients are interested in experiencing their hotel before they arrive, suggest a virtual reality tour. It’s a fun way for your clients to get excited while you plan their itinerary. For hotels, resorts and event venues, VR technology offers a dynamic way to showcase their offerings.

Personalization: Hotels and restaurants are increasingly personalizing the travel experience from booking to check-out. By leveraging data-driven insights, hotels tailor stays to individual preferences, making each room feel uniquely suited to guests. Similarly, restaurants use guest information to offer personalized menu recommendations and accommodate dietary needs. As the hospitality industry is committed to enhancing every aspect of the experience, it’s wise for planners to also ensure their clients’ hotel and dining experiences are memorable and tailored to their needs.

Voice search and voice control: This trend simplifies the guest experience by allowing voice commands for various needs. Instead of typing or tapping, guests can speak requests for local recommendations, hotel amenities or room temperature adjustments, effectively having a personal assistant at their disposal. This technology extends beyond hotel rooms to restaurants, where guests can order meals just by speaking. Additionally, voice search and control technology helps streamline hospitality operations an enhance overall efficiency.