How The World’s New Tempo Is Impacting Hospitality
The hospitality industry is centered on people, with the aim of creating the most memorable experiences possible. As such, the relationship between the new pace of global life and the service industry is deeply intertwined. In other words, new customer habits directly impact the hospitality sector, leading to changes that open up new perspectives and opportunities.
Hoiana Resort & Golf, Việt Nam
Accor Group has recently published the report “The New Quality of Time: How the New Pace of Life is Shaping the Hospitality Industry,” providing detailed insights into how time influences hospitality services. Accor highlights five key elements of this new rhythm and shares perspectives and potential opportunities for the future of the tourism and hospitality industry.
Slowing Down and Time Out: The Response to the increased pace of life
In contrast to the rapidly accelerating pace of modern life, people are increasingly inclined to "hit the brakes" and slow down. A prime example is the significant rise in wellness retreats and activities focused on self-care, with the aim of slowing the pace of life in all aspects. The desire to take time for oneself has led to some of the leading trends in the industry, such as heightened interest in physical, mental, and emotional wellness, the slow travel mindset, and new expectations for the workplace.
Arizona Biltmore Hotels & Resorts
The wellness market is expanding exponentially, growing from $4.9 trillion in 2019 to $5.6 trillion in 2022, according to the Global Wellness Institute. Additionally, many see travel as an escape from the constant rush of life. A vacation that meets the needs for relaxation, wellness, and mental balance is becoming the top choice. In fact, where better than a resort or hotel with meticulously curated services ready to meet these expectations?
Embracing the Generational Legacy: Time to Share Experiences Across the Ages
As life expectancy increases, we are witnessing the rise of a multigenerational community. Travelers now embark on family trips that encompass diverse groups of customers all at once, and industry professionals must be ready to meet their varied needs. As family travel becomes a trend, the hospitality industry must evolve in space design, service packages, amenities, and programs to cater to these multigenerational guests.
House on the Clouds
Based on these insights, some employment opportunities could be applied within hospitality establishments:
Mentorship programs: Pair younger workers with experienced staff to facilitate knowledge exchange, ensure health and stamina, and enhance work performance.
Expanding the workforce: Hiring senior employees brings consistency and increases the likelihood of finding loyal staff, especially in today’s tight labor market.
Storytelling and corporate culture: Leverage the personal experiences and journeys of veteran employees by incorporating storytelling about the hotel or local area into guest experiences from the perspective of a “long-time employee”.
Taking Time Together as Never Before: Seeking Connection, Community and Impact
A notable change in time-spending is a growing emphasis on authentic connections in various ways. People want to be part of a community, engaging in real, meaningful experiences—such as connecting with destinations or cultures—through unique, in-depth approaches. For the hospitality industry, this means that customers are observing and evaluating hotels, restaurants, and event venues through a new lens, seeking connection in different forms. Guests may look for private communities that share interests, such as golfing, chess, yoga, or participating in local cultural tours.
Heritance Aarah (Maldives) offers a cultural experience tour, introducing the traditional beauty of the island nation and engaging visitors in unique activities.
Welcoming the Blended Living Movement: Hospitality for Flexible Work and Leisure Time
Boundaries are increasingly blurred as people's lifestyles shift. Work, play, and relaxation no longer have the clear separations they once had. During vacations, guests may seamlessly switch to work mode with laptops in hand; conferences may take place alongside entertainment schedules; and remote work with a beachfront view from the balcony is now a familiar activity. Hospitality establishments that cater to these changing needs will more easily attract guests compared to competitors. This impacts design, facilities, room structures, experience spaces, and revenue streams in the hotel industry.
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hà Nội
Protecting the Future Now: Building the Sustainable Hospitality of Tomorrow
As global awareness grows, with a collective focus on the planet, the hospitality industry must adapt accordingly. Sustainability awards and certifications have been established to measure and benchmark a company’s “green” credentials, giving customers another reason to choose one business over another. A segment of travelers is now habitually considering environmental impact when making decisions. To appeal to this demographic, businesses must explore options that positively impact the local ecosystem.
Partnering with like-minded stakeholders: Collaborate with property owners, operators, brands, and groups committed to long-term relationships, strong innovation, and the integration of sustainable practices.
Choosing eco-friendly materials: Implement eco-conscious design and construction with sustainable materials and energy-saving features in new hotels or renovations.
Pursuing sustainability certifications: Aim for certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) to demonstrate a property’s commitment to a sustainable future.
Based on the report The New Quality of Time: How the World’s New Tempo is Impacting Hospitality by Accor Group, published in September 2024.
Cover: Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa