In a highly dynamic sector kept lively by ongoing evolution and plenty of competition, constantly keeping up with the times is not simply a goal to aim for, but a real necessity.
This is why it is worth knowing in advance what the key trends in the Hospitality sector in 2024 will be, so you know what customers will be looking for and what the insiders’ next moves will be. So let’s see what the key trends of 2024 will be in the hotel sector, realising that from now on, digitisation (in various forms) and sustainability will be the most important factors.
Data Analytics for the Hotel Sector
Offering customised experiences based on data collected: in 2024, hotel guests will expect to see customised solutions, specifically tailored to their preferences. Hotel operators can respond to this demand using data from previous stays, collected in their hotel software.
Sustainability and the Green Economy in Hospitality
Towards greater sustainability: consumers’ choices are increasingly influenced by the demand for greater sustainability. This trend works in favour of facilities that ensure a greener and more environmentally friendly experience with sustainable practices: energy efficiency, waste management, reduced water consumption, organic choices at breakfast and any other meals that may be served.
Artificial Intelligence in Hotels
Artificial Intelligence is increasingly present: AI is no longer something far away. Applications of AI are about to change certain aspects of the way people approach hotels, by means of chatbots and virtual concierges. Hotel operators can now be available to serve guests (and potential guests) 24 hours a day, reducing waiting times for customers while at the same time optimising use of their employees’ time.
Augmented Reality
The role of Augmented Reality: targeted use of Augmented Reality can concretely improve the guest experience. Consider, for example, the creation of interactive maps making it easy for customers to find their way around the facility, or virtual tours of the spaces available to them and the surrounding area.
Healthcare and Hospitality
Focus on wellness: since the pandemic, wellness has become a crucial consideration in the organisation of any holiday. It should come as no surprise that there has been an increase in searches for hotels with wellness areas, fitness centres, yoga studios and massage centres.
Local Food and Wine
The importance of the local cuisine: partly as a result of the desire for greater sustainability, guests are increasingly eager to discover local flavours right in the hotel, for a more authentic, unique experience.
Hybrid Spaces
Hybrid and bleisure spaces: the term “bleisure” refers, of course, to travel combining business with leisure. Hotels that want to attract these travellers, who are neither strictly business travellers nor holidaymakers, must offer hybrid spaces for both work and relaxation.
The Centrality of the Smartphone
The customer’s smartphone as a key to evolution: with the latest PMS software, guests can improve their experience using their own smartphones, which can serve as a digital key for entering the room, eliminating the need to carry a physical key, and a tool for checking in and possibly even checking out independently, without waiting in a queue.