The hospitality and tourism sector has gone through substantial changes over the past few years, especially after COVID-19, and is continuing to do so. There is an evident shift in technology, work-life balance approach, and travelling preferences among the younger generation. The hospitality industry is trying to keep pace with the emerging technology and trends to provide memorable experiences to its guests.

The hospitality industry is evolving to align with the preferences and expectations of the younger generation. Here are some of the emerging trends that are shaping the core approach and functioning of hotels throughout the world:

• Use of Robotics: Hotel robots are emerging as a pivotal and lucrative option for both employers and guests. Service robots like housekeeping robots, food service robots, and luggage handling robots are becoming famous. They help hotels to automate tasks, improve visitor experiences, and increase operational efficiency. They can undertake repetitive jobs which are often monotonous, provide speedier service, and operate 24/7, freeing up human staff to focus on more personalised encounters. In the long term, robots help to reduce labour costs and enhance safety and hygiene.

 

• Use of AI: Artificial Intelligence is revolutionising the hotel industry by providing streamlined operations, data analysis, and anomaly detection. AI can be used in many aspects, such as revenue optimisation, allocating tasks, and managing inventory. Nowadays, it is used to provide flexible pricing and accommodation options to guests depending on their budgets and needs, respectively. AI chatbots can further assist in resolving customers’ queries in a short period. It can also provide an automotive check-in and check-out for the speedy arrival and departure of guests. It allows guests to experience serenity with minimal human interference or disturbance.

 

• Sustainable hospitality: With the increasing concern over the environment and growing consumer awareness, sustainability has become a necessity for the hospitality industry. People are becoming eco-conscious about their travel and hotel choices. Sustainability will be a great choice to cut carbon footprints, reduce waste, maintain cleanliness by going plastic-free, and many more. It will help to retain customers by providing them with a cleaner and greener environment. Use of renewable energy resources such as solar cells will further decrease the energy consumption cost for hotels. Plus, hotels can gain a positive image by using cruelty-free materials for artefacts, decorations, upholstery, furnishing, and toiletries. Vegan and organic food is also in high demand and can enhance the flavours and quality of food at hotel restaurants.

 

• Including local experiences: The popularity of solo travelling is increasing, with a shift towards holistic travel. Nowadays, people are interested in exploring beyond the walls of hotels. The local experience of cuisine, culture, and activities acts as a detox from the fast-paced city life. Hotels are now providing interactive workshops like cooking and pottery, cultural displays, and guided tours for an immersive experience of the location. Mostly done by collaborating with local artists and event organisers. This collaboration benefits both hotels and local people.

 

• Pre-booking Virtual-Reality Tours: Through VR technologies, hotels are now offering a virtual experience of the stay at the property. This includes a virtual tour of the rooms, balcony views, and amenities present at the stay. VR helps to make informed decisions. It further represents hotels in a sophisticated way. It becomes an efficient way to reach the customers and enhance the brand value.

 

• Providing personalised experiences: Personalisation entails providing individualised service and interaction based on the guest’s preferences and previous stays. Personalisation can include accommodation preferences, eating options, activities, and greetings for special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries. It provides a pleasurable and memorable experience for clients, hence increasing their loyalty.

 

• Culinary experiences: Culinary trends are reshaping the way guests dine at hotels and resorts, embracing new approaches to cater to modern tastes. Recently, trends like farm-to-table have become a hit, offering fresh and locally sourced ingredients. It highlights seasonal flavours while supporting local farmers. With an increase in health consciousness and a taste for local cuisines, more guests are seeking meals that are healthier and environmentally friendly. According to a report, the demand for plant-based options has skyrocketed, increasing its retail market from $3.9 billion (2017) to $8.1 billion in 2023. Another trend is the fusion of global cuisines, blending flavours from around the world to create unique, memorable dishes.

 

• Bleisure travel: It refers to travelling with the intent to work and vacation. With the rise in work-life balance and remote working options, travellers now extend their travel and stays. The hospitality industry is trying to cater to the needs of remote work by providing high-speed internet, dedicated co-working spaces, and private meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology. Some even provide business concierge services. These attractions draw business travellers and offer them extended stays to enrich their experiences.

 

• Workforce Transformation: One major issue that the hospitality sector has been dealing with for ages is staffing shortages. As per a survey by the American Hotel & Lodging Association, 76% of hotels in North America reported staffing shortages, with 13% experiencing severe understaffing impacting operations. The human interaction component of hospitality remains influential. To attract and retain talented and experienced staff, hotels are now offering flexible shifts, increased wages, and extended benefits to their employees. Retention is frequently seen as a critical component of hotel business success. Another transformative step is to train the individuals on new technologies and services. The future appears to involve a combination of hosting by both humans and AI.

Conclusion

Innovations in technology, shifts in work-life balance, the importance of sustainability, and shifting expectations on the part of guests are all factors that will shape the future of hotels and tourism. Businesses that are able to incorporate new trends into their operations while also retaining their customers and employees are in the best position to thrive in the shifting environment. Guest needs have shifted strongly toward customised service with streamlined digital processes and wellness-focused offerings. The evolving market demands that hotels and tourism operators embrace innovation while putting customer engagement and sustainability at the forefront to stay competitive.