How to incorporate the latest trends in hospitality at your property in 2023
It’s hard to believe, but 2022 is almost over. As we enter the new year, now is a perfect time to evaluate your business and position it for success in 2023. One key way to do this is to tap into the biggest trends in hospitality leading into 2023. From sustainable practices to smart hotel technology to incentivizing employees, let’s take a look at the future of the hospitality industry and what’s going to be hot in 2023.
Sustainability
One of the biggest trends in hospitality in 2022 that will continue in 2023 is the push towards sustainability. With travelers becoming more and more eco-focused, hotels can anticipate an influx in guests leaning towards hotels that feature rooftop gardens, farm-to-table restaurants, sustainable toiletries, and water conservation-focused laundry services.
According to Hospitality Net, 3 out of 4 accommodation providers say they’ve implemented some form of sustainability practices at their property, but only one-third of those actively communicate their efforts to guests and potential guests. Don’t forget to share these practices on your hotel’s website and social media, as well as in your email marketing.
Bleisure
Another trend that took hold in 2022 and is poised for growth in 2023 is bleisure travel: or part business, part leisure travel. According to Forbes, 89% of people planned to add personal vacation time to their business travel in 2022 and this trend will continue in 2023.
How can you reach this type of traveler in 2023?
Studies have shown that many of these travelers stay at the same property for both the business and the leisure portions of the trip. So, having offerings that accommodate both parts of a bleisure traveler’s trip is key. Adding flexible workspaces and meeting rooms that allow working guests to take video calls and answer emails outside their hotel rooms in a quiet space is crucial. Additionally, when looking to unwind, hotels typically associated with business travel now have the opportunity to showcase their relaxing offerings, including spa appointments, in-room massages, and tour package options — which are also ideal for family and friends who tag along.
Employee-Focused Initiatives
The year 2022 saw staffing shortages plague the entire hospitality industry. For 2023, putting a focus on your employees will go a long way when it comes to attracting and retaining staff.
Offering employees incentives for any rewards program sign-ups or guest room upgrades they sell are one way to make current staff feel valued and rewarded, while also attracting potential employees.
When it comes to retention, make sure you speak with staff regularly and check to see how they’re managing their role. Employees who feel cared for are less likely to look for work elsewhere. Offering them opportunities to grow and develop in their career will also make them less likely to seek a new position. Staff are more likely to stay in a job which offers career prospects. Not to mention, they’ll be more enthusiastic and go above and beyond for guests.
Smart Hotel Technology
One of the other key trends in hospitality for 2023: technology. Just like most other industries, the future of the hospitality industry is digital. In today’s day and age, most travelers expect a digital experience, from check-in to check-out. According to a recent study by Avail, 71% of Gen-Zers and 71% of Millennials lead the way in 2022 when it came to making plans to travel more often. And with more younger travelers starting at your property, incorporating smart hotel technology will be key in 2023.
Offering guests a branded mobile app that allows them to check-in and check-out digitally, order room service, and book spa appointments all from the convenience of their mobile device is critical to capturing digitally minded travelers. In-room tablets will also bridge the digital divide and allow guests to order room service, adjust temperature controls, and browse the latest hotel offerings all with the tap of a finger.
Looking to learn more about bringing your property’s tech into 2023? Request a demo.
