Top 5 takeaways from 2024 The Hospitality Show in San Antonio Last Week | By Mike Pavicich

The Hospitality Show, a collaboration between Questex and the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), wrapped up its second annual event with a bang! This year, the show unfolded in San Antonio, Texas, welcoming nearly 5,000 attendees and 460 companies.

The buzz reached its peak during the closing keynote by Erin Andrews, FOX Sports Broadcaster. Her talk, Breaking Barriers: Erin Andrews on Leadership, Resilience, and Teamwork, was a major highlight. Under the moderation of Eva Saha, Andrews shared her trailblazing journey in sports broadcasting, offering insights on how authenticity and teamwork fueled her success. Her inspiring stories and advice resonated deeply with aspiring leaders in attendance, shaping new paths to success across any field.

For me, there were some standout takeaways and trends that seemed to resonate throughout the conference.

1. Automation & Robotics

With staffing challenges front and center, hoteliers are turning to digital transformation tools to keep the magic alive. From AI-driven customer solutions to robotic cleaning wonders, hotels are using tech to curb labor shortages, save money, and up their game in guest interactions.

This push towards modernized networks is a game changer, helping hoteliers introduce cost-saving amenities without breaking the bank while enhancing guest experiences and workplace conveniences.

Experts also spotlighted artificial intelligence's revolutionary role in hospitality, discussing how these digital marvels can boost guest engagement and operational efficiency like never before.

2. Resilience and Future-Proofing

Profitability took center stage, as sessions zeroed in on refreshing revenue ideas and strategies to streamline costs. With real-life case studies, experts illustrated how dynamic pricing, loyalty programs, and extra services could drive profits and guest loyalty.

With economic uncertainties looming, hoteliers are prepping for the future by shoring up cash reserves, optimizing costs, and reviewing their tech choices to stay lean and competitive. Smart financial plans ensure they can roll with any economic punches thrown their way.

3. Collaboration for the Greater Good

The opening keynote by José Andrés, celebrated Chef and Humanitarian, tugged at heartstrings, advocating for food as a powerful agent of positive change in the hospitality world.

Sustainability took the spotlight, with discussions on implementing eco-friendly measures without sacrificing profits. Emphasizing sustainable sourcing, energy-efficient tech, and waste reduction, the discourse highlighted gains in brand value and customer trust.

Special shout-out to the attendees and The Show’s charity partner, Clean The World, who came together to build over 1,000 hygiene kits with recycled soap and toiletries for those in need, bringing hope to hurricane victims in Florida and North Carolina.

4. Extended Stays: The Growing Trend

Extended stay accommodations are on the rise! This sector is not just growing, but reshaping the landscape for travelers and investors alike. Hoteliers are eagerly expanding options, offering more apartment-style rentals and longer-stay choices that adapt to evolving traveler needs.

5. Have Tech Vendors Gone Too Far?

It’s a hot topic in hospitality – has tech vendor support and service automation gone too far, leaving the human touch behind? Many hoteliers feel isolated as technology companies dial down live customer support, shifting towards digital-only solutions like chatbots. This arms-length approach leaves hoteliers searching for tech partners who prioritize real connections.

Customers First: The Heart of Our Mission

In light of these insights from so many frustrated hoteliers, we are inspired to further enhance SalesAndCatering.com’s ongoing commitment to putting our customer's first. This means doubling down on our pledge to make customer satisfaction our top priority. It’s reassurance that we are on the right track with our blend of innovative tech combined with exceptional human service. We believe it’s the human factor that truly shapes exceptional customer success and experiences.

In Summary

Attending the event was an amazing opportunity for our team! We shared our latest product enhancements, connected with STS Cloud users, and caught up with industry colleagues and partners. Plus, we made some fantastic new connections while soaking up the vibrant culture and energy of San Antonio.

Looking ahead, we’re planning to attend next year’s Hospitality Show 2025, October 26-28 at the Denver Convention Center. Hopefully we will see you all again in Colorado!