Curious about what changes the new year will bring? Travellers' expectations evolve and so does hotel innovation. As we approach 2024, hotels of all sizes are starting to prepare for this new chapter.
In a world where change is the only constant, hoteliers must be ready to explore and gradually embrace the upcoming trends. In this article, we’ll explore seven hotel innovation trends that will shape the future of hospitality.
Without further ado, let’s dive in!
Table of contents
Top Hotel Innovation Trends
Reasons for innovating go beyond modernization; it’s all about crafting a strategic response to the growing demand from guests seeking something more than just a simple stay.
In a crowded market where properties vie to stand out, innovation has become essential. Increasing efficiency, maximizing benefits, and enhancing customer satisfaction is just the beginning.
In this article, we’ll explore the top hotel innovation trends for 2024. They’ll not only help you transform your property but also attract more customers and improve profitability.
1. Artificial intelligence: Turning Data into Customized Experiences
Artificial intelligence (AI) serves as the brains behind the creation of new customized experiences.
It’s power to meticulously interpret data from guests and learn from every interaction, AI can help us make the best decisions. These decisions rely on concrete information rather than mere assumptions.
AI analyzes guests’ past preferences, booking behaviour, and consumption patterns. This empowers hotels to implement AI to predict and meet the specific needs of each visitor.
For instance, if a guest has particular dietary preferences, AI can identify that information, enabling the hotel’s associated restaurants to offer gastronomic options catered to their needs. This way, every meal becomes a satisfying experience.
Simply put, AI-driven hotels can interpret data in a way that allows them to make well-informed decisions to improve every aspect of the guests’ experience.
2. Chatbots: The Evolution of Customer Support
Chatbots are digital allies, powered by AI, that not only answer to guests instantly but are also constantly learning and improving their precision.
Let’s see an example. A guest arrives late at the hotel after a long day. They might have queries about wifi, breakfast, or simply need advice on where to find the best pizza. The chatbot has your back. It not only provides answers but can also learn about the specific preferences of that guest.
So, what’s so special about chatbots and AI combined? The answer lies in how they create a comfortable and highly personalized stay. That's how, in the hospitality trends for 2024, they definitely hold one of the top positions.
3. Energy Saving Technology: Commitment to Sustainability
With sustainability at the forefront of environmental concerns, hotels are seeking ways to minimize their environmental footprint. By 2024, the main trend involves adopting eco-friendly practices and implementing hotel technologies that improve sustainability and contribute to energy savings.
In this context, LED lighting systems can be installed in all common areas and hotel rooms, significantly cutting down on electrical consumption and related expenses.
But that's not all – smart thermostats and occupancy-based sensors also play a role. When rooms are empty, the system automatically adjusts the temperature, contributing to energy savings and operation efficiency.
By adopting adequate technology on this journey toward sustainability, your hotel can make a difference and lead the way to a greener and more profitable future.
4. Voice-enabled Technologies: Full Control with Simple Commands
With voice assistants and voice-activated devices integrated into hotels, guests can enjoy full control of their experience using simple voice commands.
In the rooms, for example, guests can handle the TV, adjust the curtains, and even get information about hotel services, all with just a few spoken words.
Moreover, voice commands can be incorporated into the lobby, allowing guests to ask a voice assistant about local events, transportation schedules, or restaurant recommendations.
This evolution not only streamlines daily interactions but also adds a touch of innovation to the hotel. That’s how, in a world where convenience is key, voice technology becomes the perfect ally.
5. Contactless Service: The New Standard
Mobile check-ins and digital keys are here to stay. Guests are highly satisfied with these speedy and efficient arrival and room access experiences.
But there's more. If we look to the future, we are starting to see facial recognition technology emerging to completely eliminate the need for any physical interaction.
This shift towards contactless services not only streamlines daily operations but also improves the guest experience, making it one of the top trends for 2024.
6. Robotics: Efficiency and Enhanced Experiences
Imagine a hotel where robots take care of room cleaning, ensuring a flawless standard. Now, think about the efficiency of a robot swiftly and accurately transporting guests' luggage. And let's not forget the convenience of having food and drinks delivered without delays.
These aren't just futuristic fantasies; they are operational advancements that the robotics industry is introducing to hospitality.
By 2024, automation and robotics are becoming crucial elements to optimize operations, improve efficiency, and take guest experiences to a higher level.
7. Augmented reality (AR): Redefining Interactivity
Augmented Reality (AR) is the game-changer that will completely transform how guests interact with their surroundings.
How? Guests can take a virtual tour of the entire hotel, highlighting the most interesting places and must-see features. But there's more to it: AR will also virtually guide them through the rooms to help them decide, providing a sneak peek of their upcoming stay.
This technology will set a new standard for the hotel experience, reshaping the way guests connect and explore their surroundings during their stay.
Conclusion
To sum up, staying up-to-date on these hotel innovation trends will help you better understand your guests’ expectations, keeping you ahead in a competitive and ever-changing market. Embracing the innovations of 2024 is a wise move if you're seeking improvement in operational efficiency and, above all, loyal and satisfied guests.
Author
Eva Lacalle
Eva has over a decade of international experience in marketing, communication, events and digital marketing. When she's not at work, she's probably surfing, dancing, or exploring the world.
IDC Study: The Business Value of Mews Hospitality Cloud
Download now
Hospitality hot takes straight to your inbox
Sign up to our monthly newsletter for industry insights, product news, partner updates and more.