COVID-19 uprooted all the industry trends that were set to take over this year. For the time being, it has reshaped the future of hospitality.
While we could have never predicted this sort of disruption, here are some trends that you should prepare to make the most of.
After all, we’re not going to be on lockdown forever. Let’s get ahead of the game!
Accommodation-friendly
Inclusiveness is expected. Hotel owners and planners are encouraged to consider the needs of everyone that may book at their establishment. This trend isn’t going to go away, and more and more hotels will begin to cater beyond the able-bodied. This includes people with dietary restrictions and physical handicaps.
Health and Wellness
This is probably the most obvious of the upcoming trends. Although most wouldn’t describe wellness as a “trend”, this necessity is going to evolve in the pandemic aftermath. Sanitation standards are going to be a priority. No property can successfully go from strict COVID guidelines to lackluster sanitation procedures.
Sustainability
Right now, plastic is heavily used. Pre-packaged food and disposable gloves are in heavy demand right now. On the other hand, some environmentally hazardous amenities have been removed due to safeguards.
The negative environmental impact of single-use plastic is still here. It’s difficult to take preventative measures now, but people are going to want to be more careful in the future. More and more people will book with environmentally conscious hotels. Consider the non-eco-friendly amenities you’ve already been forced to remove. Can they be replaced? Are they necessary in creating quality experiences?
Staycations
Even when people are ready to travel again, many are going to have reservations. Even before the pandemic, staycation searches were up 38%. With the trend already realized, the pandemic solidified staycations as a top trend for travelers. People want luxury experiences without extensive travel. If you can learn to market to your local demographics, you’ll have a leg up over your competitors.
Technology
Is your technology up-to-date and user friendly? Everyone has made a sharp pivot towards the digital world. This means that your website needs to be up to date, you need to be equipped with high-quality tech equipment and have a solid support staff. Many hotels offer mobile check-in and digital concierge services.
Looking for a Director of Sales and Marketing to help you navigate these trends? Reach out to us at info@jdisearch.com.