As we closed 2024, I shared insights into the moderated RevPAR growth expected for 2025 and the strategies that could help hotels outperform in a competitive landscape. Now, as we step fully into the new year, it’s time to shift from strategic outlook to actionable steps that will define success in our industry.
2025 isn’t about doing more of the same—it’s about doing it differently, better, and smarter. If last month’s discussion focused on the “why” of change, this edition dives into the “how.”
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From Strategy to Implementation
The changes on the horizon are transformative.
Technology, guest expectations, and operational efficiency are not just evolving—they’re converging. This convergence presents an unparalleled opportunity for innovation. The question is, how do we harness it effectively?
In December, we examined the importance of commercial planning, TRevPAR focus, and digital transformation. As we look ahead, success lies in turning these frameworks into operational realities:
• Pricing Automation: AI-driven algorithms aren’t just a tool—they’re a necessity. Does your strategy have the agility to adapt rates in real-time without manual intervention?
• Attribute-Based Selling (ABS): Guests increasingly expect personalized experiences. Are hotels enabling choices that let them build their ideal stay while boosting revenue per reservation?
• Dynamic Menus & F&B Innovation: Smart menus and AI-powered pricing aren’t just for future-focused properties—they’re tools for any operation aiming to maximize every guest interaction.
Operational Excellence and Guest-Centric Evolution
Efficiency is no longer just about cost-cutting; it’s about delivering better guest experiences.
• Self-Service Check-In/Check-Out: Contactless options are becoming standard. Are Hotels meeting guest expectations while empowering staff to focus on high-value interactions?
• Process Automation for Groups: Group bookings can be a time drain. Tools to streamline this process can unlock significant team productivity and guest satisfaction.
• Hyper-Personalization: Today’s guests demand recognition and relevance. Leveraging data to anticipate and exceed their needs.
AI Agents and the Future of Hospitality
The introduction of AI agents is set to redefine SaaS, enabling seamless automation across traditionally siloed systems. From dynamic pricing to guest interactions, these tools aren’t just supporting operations—they’re leading them.
• Unified Efficiency: Exploring the potential of AI agents to integrate CRS, RMS, and CRM functions into a single, streamlined system.
• Proactive Decision-Making: Are we ready to let AI not just inform but act on critical operational decisions, enhancing both efficiency and profitability?
Sustainability and Innovation as Cornerstones
Eco-conscious guests are looking for brands that share their values. Aligning operations with these priorities isn’t just a trend; it’s a differentiator.
• Green Operations: every property should actively be pursuing renewable energy, waste reduction, and carbon offsets.
• Wellness as a Revenue Driver: Have you tapped into the growing demand for wellness-focused experiences, from yoga retreats to mindful dining?
The Call to Action
2025 is here, and the opportunities are boundless for those willing to embrace change and innovate boldly.
Now is the time to assess, adapt, and act. The path forward is one of clarity, precision, and purpose—rooted in the essence of hospitality yet driven by the possibilities of innovation.
Let’s make 2025 a year where the extraordinary becomes the standard.
Until next time, keep exploring the endless possibilities of hospitality.
👉 Read the full article at the Hospitality Labs blog and subscribe for more actionable insights and exclusive content. Let’s shape the future of hospitality together!
Fernando Vives
About Fernando Vives
Fernando Vives stands at the forefront of hospitality expertise, guiding Minor Hotel Europe and Americas (part of Minor Hotels ) Commercial Discipline and Top Line Results. His dynamic leadership oversees a vast portfolio, including sales, revenue management and digital growth, steering a team of over 2,000 across 30 countries and managing a turnover of over $3 billion USD. Awarded as one of the Top 20 Extraordinary Minds by HSMAI in the industry for Commercial & Revenue Optimization Leadership, Fernando’s extensive background includes senior roles at renowned hotel chains and ventures into entrepreneurship. He is an academic pioneer, and an esteemed speaker and a passionate industry advocate, Fernando’s educational prowess is matched by his commitment to shaping the future of hospitality as an Ambassador for Hospitality Labs
The views and opinions expressed in this newsletter are solely those of Fernando Vives and do not necessarily reflect those of any company or organization he works for or is affiliated with, nor those of their partners or suppliers. The data sources used are mostly public, ChatGPT may have been used for research assistance, copywriting or editing. If you find any discrepancies or errors in the data or insights shared, please reach out via LinkedIn for necessary adjustments. Thank you for following and being a part of this community.
