In a newly released report, global trends for the hotel industry showed environmental initiatives to be the most salient emerging trend in 2013.
Technology followed, with social media and Health and Wellness gaining a fair amount of attention.
The reigning ‘Environmentally-friendly’ trend, in conjunction with rising sustainable travel interests among tourists, continues to drive the reduction of environmental impact, promotion of sustainable business practices and green products and services offerings.
The use of eco-friendly cleaning products with an emphasis on locally sourced food and reduced environmental footprint is considered a key sustainability measure by both respondent categories.
Low-flow water systems and the adoption of renewable energy for Asia-Pacific and energy-related staff education for global respondents, were identified as the key measures to be implemented in 2013. For senior level respondents, credentials and reputation surfaced as the key objectives with a focus on online presence.
According to Timetric’s report, 35 per cent of respondent segments indicate that they may save less than 5 per cent of total organisational expenditure over the next 12 months ensuing to the implementation of sustainability measures. The regional analysis of cost-saving targets reveals that 59 per cent of respondents from companies primarily operating in Asia-Pacific expect to save 5–10 per cent of their organisational expenditure.
Timetric’s report demonstrated that 35 per cent of luxury respondents expect expenditure increase to be 3–10 per cent. Wi-Fi technology, online reservations, and high-speed internet access being the primary technological facilities provided to customers by luxury hotels.
Correspondingly, flat-screen televisions, Wi-Fi technology, and online reservation are the key technological facilities expected by customers in luxury hotels. In addition to technology, investment on social media and networking sites, mobile, and online portals are expected to increase amply.
In total, 65 per cent of luxury hotels and 32 per cent of other hotels expect health and wellness tourist volumes to grow in 2013. Respondents have already implemented items on their menus to meet the needs of health and wellness tourists. Gymnasiums and swimming pools are considered the key facilities offered by hotels, while free access to health and fitness facilities is a key complimentary facility.
Timetric is a leading provider of online data, analysis and advisory services on key financial and industry sectors.
source: http://www.hotelview.net / Home> Hotel News / April 04th, 2013
