Automation, virtual reality, contactless service – these are few of the technologies that are here to stay

A competitive arena that packs several opportunities, the hospitality industry demands constant innovation, probably more than any other sector in the world. Keeping up with the latest business trends not only prevents companies from getting left behind, but also helps them provide their customers an unforgettable experience.

In a post-pandemic world, the hospitality sector has undergone some major transformation. Trends considered as good-to-have became must-have solutions. Here are some technologies that are likely to leave a significant impact on the hospitality landscape:

CONTACTLESS PAYMENTS 

Contactless payments are running the show in the hospitality sector. It not only provides a hassle-free and time saving payment option to guests, but also minimises the risk of COVID-19 transmission by limiting contact. Hotel staffers as well as guests are glad for this technology, which protects their overall safety without interfering in the service.

AUTOMATION

Automation holds the potential to usher in a new era for the hospitality industry. Hotels and restaurants can provide their guests with a premium experience by incorporating robotics for basic tasks like greeting customers and providing information.
The same service can also be used for offering room service and performing housekeeping chores. It minimises unnecessary people-to-people contact, while also helping hotels to use their manpower for more pertinent jobs.

REALITY MADE VIRTUAL 

Apart from the inclusion of robotics, another trend that can take the hospitality sector up by a notch is virtual reality. 360 degree videos and virtual reality tours help hotels showcase their properties more appealingly to customers. The latter can also view the facilities available from the comfort of their home, before making a booking decision. Hotels that implement these solutions are bound to get a clear edge over their competition, which might not have tapped the potential of this emerging trend yet.

HEALTHIER F&B OFFERINGS 

With guests across the globe becoming more health conscious, it is imperative for restaurants and hotels to offer healthier F&B options. The shift towards healthier and organic food calls for a substantial change in the existing F&B offerings.
One way for hoteliers to achieve this is by revamping their menus. Alternatively, they can create a separate menu for guests who prefer organic or vegan diets.

THE VOICE MATTERS

From Siri to Alexa, voice control has touched almost every aspect of our daily lives. The hospitality sector is no different either. Voice control comes with great applications for the hospitality world. Some of the primary utilities include controlling devices in the hotel room and allowing guests to place basic commands such as calls for room service. This can help them create a more personalised customer experience.

While not all of the above might be viable for players in the hospitality, Nanda recommends that companies evaluate the ones that are more pertinent to their immediate business needs. They can use start small and then scale up the solutions they can deploy to increase their profits along while providing the customers with a memorable experience.

Source Link – HOTELIER INDIA