By Peter Skudutis – Global Hospitality Entrepreneur
The hospitality industry in Australia has faced many challenges and changes in the past couple of years due to the pandemic, lockdowns, and travel restrictions and the challenges of re-emerging from the pandemic.
However, the sector has also shown resilience, innovation, and adaptability to meet the evolving needs and preferences of customers. In 2024, here are some of the emerging trends that will shape the hospitality industry in Australia.
Leveraging technology to improve guest experiences
Technology has become an essential tool for hospitality businesses to enhance their operations, services, and customer satisfaction.
From online booking platforms, contactless payments, digital menus, and QR codes, to smart devices, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, technology offers many opportunities to streamline processes, reduce costs, increase efficiency, and personalise experiences. For example, some hotels are using voice-activated assistants, facial recognition, and biometric scanners to provide seamless check-in and check-out, room access, and personalised settings.
Some restaurants are using interactive tables, digital walls, and holograms to create immersive and engaging dining environments. Technology also enables hospitality businesses to collect and analyse data, feedback, and reviews from customers, and use them to improve their offerings and marketing strategies.
Greater adoption of green practices
Sustainability and environmental awareness are becoming more important for customers and hospitality businesses alike. Customers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly options and practices when choosing where to eat, drink, and stay.
Hospitality businesses are also recognising the benefits of reducing their environmental impact, such as saving energy, water, and waste, lowering operational costs, enhancing their reputation, and attracting more customers. Some of the green practices that hospitality businesses are adopting include using renewable energy sources, installing energy-efficient appliances and lighting, implementing waste management and recycling systems, sourcing local and organic ingredients, offering plant-based and vegan menus, and providing reusable or biodegradable packaging and utensils.
Personalised services for travellers
Travellers are seeking more personalised and customised services and experiences when they visit a destination. They want to feel valued, understood, and catered to by the hospitality businesses they interact with.
They also want to explore the local culture, cuisine, and attractions, and have authentic and memorable experiences. Hospitality businesses can meet these expectations by offering personalised services and recommendations, such as tailored itineraries, concierge services, curated menus, and exclusive deals and discounts. They can also use technology, such as mobile apps, chatbots, and social media, to communicate with travellers, provide information, and solicit feedback.
Additionally, they can partner with local businesses, communities, and organisations to offer unique and diverse experiences, such as cultural tours, cooking classes, and volunteer opportunities.
Growth in last-minute bookings
Last-minute bookings are becoming more common and popular among travellers, especially in the post-pandemic era. Travellers are taking advantage of the flexibility, convenience, and affordability that last-minute bookings offer.
They are also influenced by the uncertainty and volatility of the travel situations. Hospitality businesses can capitalise on this trend by offering attractive and competitive rates, discounts, and incentives for last-minute bookings. They can also use technology, such as online platforms, mobile apps, and push notifications, to reach out to potential customers and inform them of the availability and deals.
Furthermore, they can ensure that they have adequate staff, inventory, and capacity to accommodate last-minute bookings and provide quality service.
Increased focus on health and wellness offerings
Health and wellness are becoming more prominent and prioritised by travellers, especially after the pandemic. Travellers are looking for ways to enhance their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, and to cope with the stress and anxiety caused by the pandemic.
Hospitality businesses can cater to this demand by offering health and wellness offerings, such as spa treatments, fitness facilities, yoga classes, meditation sessions, and wellness retreats. They can also provide healthy and nutritious food and beverage options, such as fresh juices, smoothies, salads, and bowls.
Moreover, they can ensure that they follow the health and safety protocols and guidelines, such as sanitising and improves cleaning practises, to protect their customers and staff from illnesses.
Outdoor spaces will see increased demand
In 2024, customers in the hospitality industry will be seeking out beach clubs and outdoor spaces for a variety of reasons. The COVID-19 pandemic has made people more conscious of their health and safety, and outdoor spaces provide a safer environment for socialising and relaxing, such as fire pit areas, natural swimming pools, outdoor BBQ facilities and other outdoor elements that offer a unique experience that cannot be replicated indoors.
Beach clubs, for example, generally offer stunning views of the ocean and a refreshing sea breeze, often coupled with enjoyable music and entertainment.
Finally, outdoor spaces provide an opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature. Beach clubs and other unique outdoor spaces will continue to grow in popularity among customers in the hospitality industry in 2024 and beyond.
Guests will be seeking out entertainment offerings
The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, and entertainment is becoming an increasingly important aspect of it. In 2024, successful hospitality ventures will need to provide guests with more than just a comfortable bed and good food. They will need to offer unique and memorable experiences that keep guests coming back for more.
Entertainment is a great way to do this. Whether its live music, comedy shows, or interactive experiences, entertainment can help create a fun and engaging atmosphere that guests will love. By incorporating entertainment into their offerings, hospitality businesses can differentiate themselves from their competitors and attract a wider range of customers. So, if you’re looking to start a successful hospitality venture in 2024, make sure to prioritize entertainment!