The Hospitality Show, now in its second year, will take place at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio from Oct. 28-30, 2024. The Show will bring together 5,000 attendees and promises to drive profitability for owners, operators and hospitality innovators through dedicated content, extensive networking and 400+ operations and technology vendors.
In this installment of The Hospitality Show Advisory Board Q&A, we catch up with Knowland CEO Jeff Bzdawka.
What do you think is the biggest problem for the industry currently?
The industry's most pressing challenge is navigating the perfect storm of rising costs, economic uncertainty, and shifting guest expectations. This confluence of factors is creating a shift in travel behaviors and threatens to reduce industry profitability, forcing hoteliers to reevaluate their strategies and seek innovative solutions.
What new trends do you see affecting the hospitality industry the most in 2024?
The divergent growth trajectories of luxury and lower-end properties, coupled with the decelerating leisure travel market, are creating a challenging landscape for hoteliers. This uncertainty underscores the urgent need for proactive guest acquisition strategies, particularly in the group and corporate segments, to stabilize revenue and maintain profitability.
What do you see as the biggest opportunities for the industry this year?
Artificial intelligence has undoubtedly made a significant impact on our industry and will continue to do so. However, it's crucial for hoteliers to understand the practical applications of AI and establish industry-wide guidelines for its responsible use, especially concerning customer data and user experience. The unknown potential of AI presents both opportunities and challenges that we must navigate carefully.
What do you think the industry's biggest accomplishment has been in the past year?
The transformation of meetings and events from agenda-driven gatherings to immersive experiences focused on engagement is a remarkable achievement. We're witnessing a shift away from traditional keynote speeches and packed schedules toward more intimate breakout sessions and ample networking opportunities. This evolution is evident in the trends reflected in The Hospitality Show and is elevating the role of events across all industries.
What are you most looking forward to at The Hospitality Show?
I'm excited about the dynamic and interactive atmosphere that The Hospitality Show fosters. The integration of sessions with vendor booths creates a unique and engaging environment that encourages collaboration and innovation. Unlike traditional trade shows, THS prioritizes meaningful interactions and insights over product demonstrations. This year's event promises to provide valuable perspectives and set the stage for a promising 2025.