Joanna James
The hospitality industry is always evolving, with travellers constantly changing the way they travel and experience the world around them, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, businesses need to keep track of shifting traveller preferences if they are to stay ahead in spite of intense competition and various industry changes. Here are a few key trends that have emerged within the hospitality sector in 2024, and which will likely shape the industry in more impactful ways in the future.
With many travellers now becoming more eco-conscious and opting to engage in sustainable travel, hospitality businesses are incorporating eco-friendly practices and experiences that cater to such preferences. Sustainable sourcing practices, reducing waste and conserving water are some of the most common initiatives now being taken among businesses. Hotels have also begun to offer eco-conscious accommodations with energy-efficient infrastructure and eco-friendly spaces.
The use of new technologies is now a growing practice with several businesses looking to improve modern-day travel experiences. The presence of AI in the hospitality industry is a notable trend with many travellers now choosing to use artificial intelligence as a travel guide to plan their trips and experiences. As a result, many hospitality companies and businesses are leveraging AI to improve traveller experiences and cater to their exact preferences. The importance of AI technologies is further highlighted by leading figures in the hospitality industry like Nishan Silva who believe AI technology can help take the sector to new heights.
Rather than beginning a new diet or workout routine, many travellers now want to improve their health and wellness while travelling. They are now actively looking for destinations and experiences that provide various care-based activities like meditation sessions, yoga classes, and spa treatments. This mindset indicates that travellers are not only interested in using their vacation time for adventure and exploring, but also for improving their mental and bodily health through various soothing activities.
With travellers looking for personalised experiences, hospitality companies and businesses are now focused on providing more customised services. Making use of data to gain insights into customer behaviours and purchases is now a key aspect of the hospitality industry. Furthermore, given the overall traveller preference for local experiences, hotels are now offering additional packages that provide access to local activities and events for more authentic experiences.
One of the major after-effects of the pandemic is the rise of ‘bleisure’ travelling, a concept that combines travel and work following the rise of remote working during COVID. As a result, people are no longer faced with the choice between work or pleasure but instead opt for both, giving rise to an entirely new travel experience. This has prompted hotels to provide co-working spaces, additional transportation services and even facilities like Wi-Fi to allow for better working conditions.
Hotel staff and workforce play a crucial role in the hospitality industry. However recent challenges faced by businesses to maintain and grow their staff have led to several new approaches in training and managing employees and industry workers. While some companies are resorting to workforce management tools to improve scheduling and labour optimisation, others are beginning to automate various manual tasks like booking management and front desk services.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
