Just like many other industries, hospitality is changing at a rapid pace. New technologies are emerging, and guests’ expectations are quickly evolving. With so many exciting things going on in the market, how can business owners know how to pivot or how to predict changes that may be coming down the pipeline?
If you’re concerned about what this year may bring for the hospitality industry, you’re not alone. Discover five critical hospitality industry trends you need to know about so you can prepare your business and your workforce to thrive in 2024.
Data-Driven Decision-Making
The rise of AI and business intelligence platforms has made it easy for hospitality organizations to collect data about their customers and their businesses.
In 2024, more businesses are likely to use information on guest behavior to determine everything from hours of operation to restaurant menus to staffing levels for different times of the day. This information will help businesses streamline their operations and avoid wasting money and resources.
Authentic Experiences at Every Turn
The data is in — Gen Z values authenticity more than any generation before them. As this generation enters the job market and has more money to spend, they want to spend it with businesses that provide them with authentic experiences.
This may mean offering a menu with a distinct local or cultural flair. This can also pertain to how you market your hospitality business, using micro-influencers to craft an authentic narrative that connects with real people.
Vegan and Plant-Based Options
Many experts expect to see an even greater rise in the number of people becoming health-conscious in 2024. This is great news for restaurants that have been putting healthier options on the menu. For some, it may mean hiring specialized chefs who can get creative in making tasty dishes with organic ingredients.
This plant-based movement extends beyond just food. Among the hotel industry trends that business owners may want to pay attention to is investing in vegan bedding and furniture made of sustainable materials. Data shows that Gen Z and those coming after them care deeply about the environment.
Greater Personalization
The data that hotels collect on guests is predicted to lead to greater levels of hyper-personalization in 2024. For hotels, this may mean offering customized packages with room service meals, amenities, and activities that particular guests have shown interest in during past stays.
With regard to restaurant industry trends, this may mean offering coupons and deals based on what customers have ordered in the past or using ordering systems that prioritize their favorite meals, making it easier for guests to order what they want.
Continued Labor Shortages
Many expect the hospitality industry to continue to contend with a smaller workforce and an ongoing labor shortage. It’s crucial for employers to be prepared for hospitality staffing trends like this with effective hiring strategies.
To avoid leaving jobs unfilled in your business, you may want to consider partnering with a hospitality staffing agency to widen your talent pool and help you locate qualified candidates more easily.
The Best Time to Prepare Is Always Now
If you want to ensure your business remains on an upward trajectory in 2024, it’s critical to prepare now for changes coming to the hospitality industry. Start thinking about where you may need to employ a different strategy or what talent you need to hire to take your business to the next level. The hospitality job outlook is great, but you must have the right candidates to fill open roles.
For those searching for candidates with specific skill sets, One Haus can help you find them. We work closely with clients to help them see past staffing challenges and hire candidates who possess the traits they desire.
Whether you need seasonal staff or a high-level executive to lead your organization for the long term, contact us to see how we can help you find success with your hiring this year.