HOTELS AND HOSPITALITY 4.0: TOP FUTURE OF LODGING SPEAKERS TALK TRAVEL

Future of lodging speakers have no end of new trends to talk about. We put together a quick run through of subjects that hospitality speakers are apt to hit on at conferences and conventions for your enjoyment.

Smart Hotel Rooms with High-Tech Features

Lodging speakers will likely predict the continued integration of smart technology into hotel rooms over the next few years. Motion sensors to control lights and temperature, customizable ambiance controls, voice assistants, high-tech entertainment systems, automated climate adjustments, and more tech-enabled features will become mainstream offerings that provide next-level convenience and experiences.

Increased Automation and Robotics

To better serve guests while reducing labor costs, many hotels may shift towards increased use of automation and robotics – self-service kiosks for check-ins/outs, delivering amenities and room service via robots butler assistants, automated luggage storage via robotic arms. Lodging speakers should highlight the pros and cons of such emerging technologies as they relate to both hotel operations and the guest experience.

Rapid Growth of Eco-Friendly Sustainable Hotels

Sustainability will remain a huge trend in hospitality. An ever-growing number of hotels will aim to earn sustainability certifications, implement programs to reduce energy, water usage and waste, source locally produced organic fare, and promote eco-initiatives. Future lodging speakers will discuss how “going green” is becoming mainstream and affects brand image and profitability.

Continued Smartphone Utilization Growth

Hotels will keep adopting new ways for guests to use their smartphones before and during stays. Speakers are apt to point out mobile apps that allow controlling room features, mobile entry, virtual concierge services, location-based offer and generate visual data to make future stays hyper-personalized based on preferences. Easy BYOD functionality will be key.

Localized, Authentic Hospitality Experiences

Travelers increasingly seek one-of-a-kind accommodations that reflect local culture and provide unique perspectives. Rather than generic mass-market hospitality, speakers may note that vacation rentals, boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and B&Bs surging in popularity due to their distinctive atmospheres and authenticity. Customizing stays via niche, specialized options will be key.