On June 28, the Hospitality Show launched at the Venetian Resort Las Vegas. Over 300 exhibitors and thousands of attendees were present for the two day event. Unlike traditional conventions, sustainability is at the forefront. The show is a brand new event hosted by American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA). Kicking off the event was keynote speaker Kat Cole, former Cinnabon president. Admiral William H. McRaven also spoke at the event providing life lessons that can be applied to the hospitality industry as well as our personal lives. Members of The Path Less Traveled Team attended and provided a first hand look at some of the innovations that will make their way to the hotel consumer.
New Hotel Brands
A brand new hotel brand is emerging out of the pandemic with a focus on extended stays. Stay APT was present at the show and provided some insight on the growing brand. Stay APT currently has 15 open locations with more properties in the pipeline. The brand looks to cater to guests staying 20 days or more. So far, Stay APT sees a majority of guest stays from traveling professionals such as travel nurses.
The Growing Use of AI And Tech
A big focus at The Hospitality show revolves on the use of technology in the hospitality industry. Technology companies are developing solutions for hotel properties. Post pandemic staffing issues have created a significant impact on hotels. Technology company SkillCat is combating this issue by training the next generation of HVAC and facilities technicians through their web based training platform. Students participate in AI based assessments and scenarios. Upon completion, hospitality companies can hire technicians through the platform, helping with staffing maintenance techs at their properties.
Robots have entered into the travel and hospitality market over the past few years. Keenon has a variety of robots in their portfolio. Their robots are being deployed in hotels providing services such as delivering food. LG brought their ServeBot to the show demonstrating the capabilities of the fully autonomous robot. In hotels, the robot can operate in complex environments including restaurants and throughout the property.
Combating Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a significant issue in the travel industry. Marriott has partnered with nonprofit organization Polaris to combat human trafficking in the hotel industry. Front line staff receive mandatory training so that they can be equipped with tools to recognize and respond to trafficking occurring at hotel properties. Marriott CEO Anthony Capuano and Polaris staff spoke at The Hospitality Show demonstrating the work the industry has done to combat human trafficking. The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation and Marriott International announced a $550,000 combined contribution to support the AHLA Foundation’s No Room for Trafficking (NRFT) Survivor Fund. Choice Hotels, Extended Stay America, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Sonesta have contributed to the survivor fund. The National Human Trafficking Hotline operates 24 hours 7 days a week. 888-373-7888.
Future Hospitality Shows
The Hospitality Show Las Vegas was well attended, especially for its first debut. Next year the Hospitality Show will take place in San Antonio Texas from October 28, 2024 to October 30, 2024. Attending The Hospitality Show at the Venetian Las Vegas provided great insight on what the consumer and hospitality industry can expect in the near future.