Independent Lodging Congress’ Post

Yesterday, I attended the AI + Tourism/Hospitality Tech Networking Conference at Fishburners. The event highlighted how AI is driving significant changes in the hospitality sector, traditionally known for lagging in technological adoption.   Speakers emphasized the current wave of AI-driven innovations led by dynamic Australian ventures in the sector. These innovations are transforming the industry, enabling hospitality businesses to drive more revenue and optimise their costs, so they can focus on what they do best, customer experience.   AI, when done well, shouldn't take the human out of the equation but should boost it. A compelling example discussed was the use of table QR code menu ordering system launched during the COVID era, which, while necessary, often resulted in a less personal customer experience. This shows the importance of integrating AI in ways that complement human interaction rather than replace it.   Looking ahead, we can expect improvements in staff and financial management, customer experience, and the hyper-personalization of services. There's much to be excited about.   However, challenges remain, including financial constraints faced by Australian hospitality venues and the industry's fragmentation, placing the responsibility of innovation on larger players.   Thanks to Leo Plaza for organising and for the very interesting debate and point of views shared by : Ross Dawson: Top AI voice and founder of Bondi Innovations. A great meet this week! Clinton Lui : Actively scaling the AI Build Club community in Australia, with a powerful story of his family restaurant business Anurupa(Anu) Sharma: Ex-Intel AI & ML innovation team and founder of Silicon Valley Cofounder Venture Studio. Eitan Bienstock: Managing director at Sigma Ventures. Jeffrey Williams : founder of Barcats who is disrupting hospitality staff recruitment and staff training across AU, NZ and now the UK. And the moderation by Brinley Meagher   It was followed by some great pitches by entrepreneurs Cookventory helpicams.com TapOnn™ Young Entrepreneurs Hub #AI #HospitalityTech #TourismTech #Innovation #CustomerExperience #Technology #FutureOfHospitality #AIinHospitality #Networking #TechConference #AustralianTech #DigitalTransformation

RealRate's U.S. Hotels ranking for 2023 is now out; watch the video right here! https://realrate.ai - The first AI rating agency https://lnkd.in/ePpAeMfC #hotels #artificialintelligence #ratings #technology #startup #ai

Investors!! Imagine walking into a bustling restaurant where every detail is perfectly managed, every guest’s need is anticipated, and the entire operation runs seamlessly. This isn’t a distant dream – it’s the reality Oblivion™ is poised to deliver. Introducing Oblivion™, a groundbreaking AI solution from Goldweathers LLC, ready to transform the hospitality industry. Based in the UAE, we are set to redefine how businesses operate and elevate guest experiences with our advanced AI technology. Why Oblivion™ is Your Next Big Investment: Exceptional ROI: Our ROI is impressive. Transformative Impact: Oblivion™ isn’t just software; it’s a revolution in hospitality management. Know more: Watch our video: https://lnkd.in/eXHQEy66 to see Oblivion™ in action and understand the transformative impact we’re making. Exclusive Insight: For an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, comment “OBLIVION” on our video or reach out directly to receive a special preview. We’re excited to discuss how Oblivion™ aligns with your investment strategy and explore the potential for a mutually beneficial partnership. #GuaranteedROI #InvestSmart #OblivionAI #GrowthOpportunity #InnovationInvestment #TechInvesting #FutureOfAI #HighReturns #SecureInvestment #RevolutionizeHospitality #Dubai #UAE #AI

Exciting times for Lokalee and the entire hospitality tech sector as they've just landed a solid $5.6M in pre-series A funding! 🚀 This leap forward is a personal touchpoint for me, recalling the days when I consulted for startups eagerly waiting for that game-changing investment spark. Lokalee's trajectory, from empowering 250 hotels with AI-enhanced guest experiences to now broadening their horizons into European markets, underscores the irreplaceable value of innovative tech solutions in tourism. 🌐✨ Witnessing Lokalee's commitment to enhancing the digital journey of each guest, it's clear this is more than just business growth—it's about reshaping how we experience travel. For those in the hospitality industry or watching the rise of AI-driven platforms, what are your thoughts on this evolution? Let's discuss below! #HospitalityTech #InvestmentNews #TravelInnovation #DigitalTransformation #AI https://lnkd.in/e9iHVarz

Amadeus completed a survey of global senior hospitality leaders to understand where they were focusing their technology investments this year. The study revealed, in part: 💡 Hoteliers expect to increase their investment in technology by an average of 16% over the coming 12 months 💡 85% of hoteliers view personalization as a key driver of commercial value, feeling it could help deliver in excess of 5% in incremental revenue 💡 43% of hoteliers say their primary focus is improving operational efficiencies during high occupancy 💡 Hoteliers are keen to find ways to broaden and improve the services they offer guests, including specific room attributes (43%) and upselling of room types and value-add amenities (40%) Download the report for much more, including insights on AI, sustainability, and other trends! https://hubs.la/Q02yVgh80

🚀 Digitisation in Hospitality: What is the right level?🚀 Recently, a top executive from a major hotel chain boldly declared, “Hospitality will never be fully digitised.” Like other industries with tangible assets (agriculture, construction, and manufacturing), it seems obvious that Hospitality can’t be entirely digitised. However, does only human-provided service always equal excellent customer experience? As #foodforthought, the #TRC invites you to reflect on the digital future of hospitality. Digitisation can help hospitality businesses to develop better services, if digital technology is applied to complement the traditional functioning of hospitality industry. But what is the sweet spot? Imagine this: well-trained, well-paid employees using technology to deliver high-quality service. Picture AI, mobile tech, contactless experiences, automation, and even friendly robots. This is the vision that Max Starkov, a Hospitality & Online Travel Tech Consultant, describes in his article: https://lnkd.in/g3HidRNN What is your opinion? Are you as impatient to see “Hospitality’s digital awakening” or do you remain cautious about digital technology in Tourism? 🤔👨💻🌐 #foodforthought #digitisation #hospitalitynews

Investors!! Imagine walking into a bustling restaurant where every detail is perfectly managed, every guest’s need is anticipated, and the entire operation runs seamlessly. This isn’t a distant dream – it’s the reality Oblivion™ is poised to deliver. Introducing Oblivion™, a groundbreaking AI solution from Goldweathers LLC, ready to transform the hospitality industry. Based in the UAE, we are set to redefine how businesses operate and elevate guest experiences with our advanced AI technology. Why Oblivion™ is Your Next Big Investment: Exceptional ROI: Our ROI is impressive. Transformative Impact: Oblivion™ isn’t just software; it’s a revolution in hospitality management. Know more: Watch our video: https://lnkd.in/eXHQEy66 to see Oblivion™ in action and understand the transformative impact we’re making. Exclusive Insight: For an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, comment “OBLIVION” on our video or reach out directly to receive a special preview. We’re excited to discuss how Oblivion™ aligns with your investment strategy and explore the potential for a mutually beneficial partnership. #GuaranteedROI #InvestSmart #OblivionAI #GrowthOpportunity #InnovationInvestment #TechInvesting #FutureOfAI #HighReturns #SecureInvestment #RevolutionizeHospitality #Dubai #UAE #AI

🤔 Some very relevant trends to be aware of in hospitality now a days 🤔 _____________________________________________________________ According to a new research study “Hospitality in 2025” by Oracle Hospitality, 95% of people plan to travel in the next 6 months, however: ✅ Many want to eliminate the ‘touch’ from the high-touch industry they once knew. ✅ Nearly three-quarters (73%) of travelers want to use their mobile device to manage their hotel experience, including checking in and out, paying, ordering food and more. - Reference: Hotel Business #digital #guestexperience #hotel #tech #hospitality #keyless #pms #guestapp #hoteltech #digitalkeys #checkin #upsell #startup #ai #design

The Future of Hospitality: Emerging Trends to Watch While the future depicted in 50s sci-fi may not align with our current reality of roads and houses, it's undeniable that humanity has made remarkable strides. In no arena is this more evident than in the world of hospitality. Consider the scene in today's restaurants, where robotic humanoids seamlessly welcome guests, assist with baggage, and even handle orders and delivery. While some may dismiss this as mere gimmickry, it's a clear indicator of how AI has exceeded predictions and expectations. Take, for instance, Microsoft's Co-Pilot, capable of crafting detailed vacation itineraries, or Google Gemini, automatically placing bookings based on information gleaned from your emails. These advancements showcase AI's transformative potential in hospitality. I'm particularly enthusiastic about the prospects of further integrating AI into the industry. While contactless check-ins and sustainable practices are undoubtedly beneficial, AI offers unparalleled opportunities for revolutionizing hotel, restaurant, and resort management. Establishments can optimize resource utilization through efficient workload distribution, enhance guest experiences through personalized services, and maximize revenue through data-driven insights and predictive analytics, all by leveraging AI. As we witness the burgeoning synergy between AI and hospitality, it's evident that the possibilities are boundless. I eagerly anticipate seeing how this merger continues to shape the landscape of hospitality, promising exciting innovations and enhanced experiences for both guests and businesses alike. Sara Harrel #HOTL752 #branding #socialmedia

#Hospitality Comparing 30 years ago to today, we see that while technology and AI have transformed our world, true success in hospitality comes from investing in people. No matter how advanced our tools or properties are, at its core, hospitality is about human connection, and it isn’t rocket science.