The global hospitality industry continues to navigate the challenges brought on by the pandemic and, more recently, economic uncertainty following the Autumn budget. From evolved customer needs and expectations to worker supply-demand imbalances, one aspect which has exploded is technological advancements. Technology is playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping digital strategies, operational productivity, and guest experiences.
For hotel owners and operators, staying one step ahead of the curve is vital. Technology is integral to the design and evolution of smart hotels, which is something that many in the industry are actively pursuing as a way to maintain a competitive edge in the market. However, it’s not simply a case of using technology to keep pace; it’s about future-proofing their infrastructure while maintaining a delicate balance between helpful automation and personalised services for their guests and customers.
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Here are some of the pressing technology trends that look to shape the hotel and hospitality industry in 2025 and beyond.
Infrastructure and compliance
Before implementing innovative technologies in hotels, careful attention must be paid to ensure they have the right supporting foundational infrastructure. Adherence to stringent building compliance surveys is a must, as is validating network capabilities and assessing incumbent systems to ensure safe integration.
Conducting a thorough investigation into a hotel’s existing pain points will also prove incredibly valuable. Consolidating guest and stakeholder feedback, and utilising it to identify suitable technological upgrades or replacements, will also help hotel management pursue short- and long-term goals.
With this groundwork in place, hotels can confidently and assuredly pursue new solutions that can add value to their existing premises while positioning a gradual technological overhaul that will serve them well for the years to come. Provided that all remedial works comply with the most recent UK Building Regulations legislation, they should find themselves with ample opportunities.
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By GlobalDataLet’s take a look at the key technologies and solutions that hoteliers should be considering, based on their key priorities and objectives..
IoT integration
The Internet of Things (IoT) is vastly improving how hotels operate and interact with guests. Smart room systems are increasingly sophisticated solutions that are gaining traction, which can offer anything from occupancy-based lighting sensors and automated climate control to interconnected room amenities and real-time inventory tracking. Many of these features can be controlled and adjusted remotely, using a mobile device. Hotels can also leverage IoT for predictive maintenance, being alerted to any potential issues that can be attended to before guests arrive.
Connected IoT technologies can be applied to a range of modern hotel features that can collectively enhance the guest experience while providing valuable data for hotel operators to improve and optimise their services.
Seamless security
Hotel security technologies have evolved beyond key cards and CCTV systems. Many modern solutions can now include:
- Biometric access for guests and staff
- AI-powered surveillance that can detect unusual behaviour patterns or data
- Network segmentation to separate guest and internal data
- Advanced, cardless payment system encryption to safeguard financial transactions
These additional and cost-effective security measures help hotels manage physical assets, protect digital information and maintain guest privacy. Expect to see these deployed more regularly across boutique hotels and franchises.
Smart kiosks and digital concierge services
Front desk operations are being transformed by technology that can streamline check-ins and provide guests with a more automated, quick and pain-free service.
Self-service kiosks are designed to reduce wait times and free up staff resources to focus on other important duties. Mobile check-in solutions can also alleviate the need for guests to approach the front desk entirely. If hotels can connect the process of administering key cards via kiosks and check-in technology, then room assignments can become more automated.
Digital concierge platforms can now offer guests 24/7 assistance. These types of open-source tools can action requests, communicate with guests, and perform automated tasks without the need for human supervision or intervention.
Of course, no concierge or smart check-in service is error-free, and staff will need to oversee operations to a degree. However, these solutions can drastically improve guest experiences, particularly in hotels with high turnover of traffic, reduce wait times, increase availability, and reduce operational overheads. Hotels should endeavour to integrate these solutions as soon as possible if they want to create efficient, hassle-free and positive experiences for all their guests.
Personalisation through data analytics
Hotels are taking advantage of big data and AI tools to further improve personalisation for guests. Deploying these tools allows establishments to utilise predictive analytics to anticipate guest preferences, automatically personalise room settings based on guest history and set dynamic prices that optimise revenue and encourage conversions via targeted marketing campaigns.
Data drives everything, and hotels can leverage it with these innovative tools to deliver even more customised and efficient experiences, while maximising their revenue potential.
Sustainability and energy management
Many modern technology solutions are built with energy preservation and environmental consciousness firmly in mind. Smart energy management systems are now being adopted, and the hotel industry is no different, often using the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance’s ‘Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality’ framework as a guide.
From smart HVAC systems that optimise airflow and energy usage to lighting systems that adjust based on natural light and occupancy levels, the possibilities for hotel rooms and suites are tremendous. Extending this further with smart water management and waste reduction, hotels can see their energy ratings improve exponentially, leading to even better cost optimisation and the continued cultivation of a circular economy.
Construction and renovation technology
When hotels are faced with the need for renovations, extensions, refurbishments and more, construction itself can also be augmented with the help of technology. Building Information Modelling (BIM) paves the way for more efficient construction planning, virtual reality (VR) tools provide more immersive visualisations and designs, and smart materials can also reduce the need for frequent maintenance due to their durability.
If hotels can reduce their construction costs, minimise overheads and create realistic timeframes while maintaining a high-quality outcome for the benefit of their guests, this technology is worth considering for future construction work.
Looking ahead
As we fast approach 2025, it’s expected that the integration of smart hotel technology will become a priority for many establishments. With operational efficiency and positive guest experiences firmly atop their priority lists for the new year, hotels can leverage emerging technologies to set themselves apart in an increasingly competitive and unpredictable market.
While there is no doubt that such an upheaval will warrant a significant investment – in time, resources and budget – the long-term savings and tangible improvements will make it worthwhile. However, the key to success lies not in adopting every possible new technology solution, but in carefully choosing and implementing ones that align with both your operational goals and guest expectations.
Hotels must be prepared to adapt quickly and strategically to changing market demands while maintaining their core focus on providing positive guest experiences, carving a positive reputation and maintaining their unique position in the now tech-led hospitality market.
About the author: Annie Button is a freelance writer based in the UK. She specialises in business development, sustainability, digital trends, marketing, and HR.
