Three years after a worldwide pandemic altered travel and lifestyle patterns, we all wonder about the future of the hospitality sector. We have all had to adjust to this new reality, demonstrating beyond a doubt that resilience is ingrained in our DNA. Innovation and technology, which help us better handle these changes and prepare for the future, are at the core of this resilience.
Modern hoteliers must be aware of the changes influencing the hospitality sector as the world gradually recovers and begins to travel again.
We'll examine those trends in this post to help you better prepare for your stay in the coming days. For additional information, continue reading.
1. B-leisure is still thriving
Another significant new market niche that will grow in importance over time is leisure travel. Travelers that combine business and leisure travel often prolong their work travels into the weekend, allowing them to spend their free time exploring the area.
It is anticipated that this trend will continue even beyond 2024, and hoteliers will need to rise to the occasion by providing convenient and comfortable accommodations for both leisure and business travelers. For instance, if you’re in Montreal, the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel can be an ideal stay to check-in. On the other hand, if you, by any chance, are planning to visit Manchester, the Clayton Hotel Manchester won’t disappoint. The possibilities are endless!
2. Individualized care and warm hospitality
It is important to keep in mind that our industry is and will always be people-focused, and we must constantly keep that in mind when doing anything we do. Guests want to feel welcome when they arrive, and the best way to do so is not to have them greeted by a faceless screen that lacks the empathy necessary to make them feel comfortable.
Instead of using technology to eliminate the human element and the hallmark of hospitality, you can utilize it as a tool to track, evaluate, and improve the quality of our services. It has also been examined that the impact of technological advancement on the economy may support human-machine collaboration in areas where human judgment is still far superior to that of computers.
Even a robot that can't carry your bags upstairs or demonstrate how to utilize the facilities in your room isn't a replacement for a smiling receptionist who wants to know about your hobbies and whether you need anything to make your short stay more comfortable.
3. Increasing reliance on technology
Nevertheless, technology has a lot to offer, and these advancements take place in the background to streamline operations and enable us to deliver better, more responsive services. You could, for instance, make sure that pricing and real-time availability are posted on time. Before customers even enter the hotel, you may check them in online and obtain their credit card information (ensuring that the pre-authorization process is completed online rather than at the front desk).
Instead of a stuffy desk, hotels may use the welcome space for something cozier and more pleasant using tablet- or cloud-based PMS solutions. Using intelligent algorithms, they can determine rates that eliminate the need for managers. And a ton more in some situations. In addition to this, hotels can provide guests with superior care and services and an important information exchange to ensure that they always depart satisfied.
4. Astute mobile technology
Smart mobile technology can enable a bright future for the hospitality sector, and it would be fair to say that many organizations are working to simplify these procedures for hoteliers. Hotels have always been in the business of connecting people to their new surroundings, so it makes sense that the promise of this new technology has also been translated into our sector.
By facilitating more efficient check-ins and check-outs, mobile technology—such as mobile check-ins—offers the potential to improve consumer satisfaction. In order to move your hotel into the future, it is essential to empower visitors and involve them in their stay. This service is one method to do this.
5. Growth of environmentally favorable and sustainable methods
Conscientious tourists will increasingly favor hotels that emphasize sustainability and environmentally friendly operations as climate change picks up speed. Sustainability will undoubtedly be a top consideration for consumers when selecting a hotel, and the hospitality sector needs to contribute to this movement by offering sustainable amenities and increasing communication about your hotel's eco-friendly initiatives.
6. A stronger focus on health and safety
After the pandemic, health and safety have become imperative rather than just "nice to have." Whether you're using antibacterial gel dispensers, routinely disinfecting all surfaces, or giving out free masks to guests upon check-in, guests want to know what you're doing to keep them safe. Embracing hygiene practices is crucial to advancing your hotel's future.
7. The rise of digital nomads
The pandemic made it possible for anyone to work remotely, allowing a new generation of people to combine work and travel. You are tapping into a new market sector that will become increasingly significant as a target market for your hotel's marketing initiatives by drawing in remote workers. Ancillary revenue will likely increase in the hotel due to the increased consumption by digital nomads.
In the end!
It is hard to limit ourselves to an annual update in the hospitality industry of today. While some broad patterns have undoubtedly existed and are still developing, this formerly cozy sector is generally always coming up with new ideas and ways to reinvent itself. It goes beyond simply catering to consumers. It is gaining pace on its own and influencing the economy and society of 2024 and beyond.