Nicholas Reichert, director of enterprise engagement of software company Kipsu, is set to attend Hotec Operations, an annual conference presented by Questex, the parent company of Hotel Management. At the conference—scheduled this year for June 11-14 at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.—buyers meet one-on-one with hospitality-focused suppliers to learn about new products and services and to keep up to date on emerging trends.
Ahead of the event, Reichert discussed artificial intelligence and new ways technology can help hoteliers.
1. How has your segment of the industry changed over the past year?
The hospitality industry is adapting to workforce challenges and rising labor costs, which have impacted profitability. Despite these hurdles, there's a vibrant opportunity for innovation and growth, especially as the sector navigates competition from short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.
2. Can you share some ways you and your company have adapted to these changes?
Kipsu harnesses its extensive data resources and AI technology to enhance hotel efficiency and profitability. By integrating cutting-edge technical solutions, Kipsu empowers frontline service workers, streamlining operations and driving innovation in hospitality.
3. What are some trends you think will have staying power beyond 2024?
Utilizing AI and [natural language processing] to boost efficiency via automation, while maintaining a human-centric approach, represents a trend with enduring impact in the hospitality industry well beyond 2024. This balance underscores a commitment to innovation and personalized service, shaping the sector's future.
4. What is the biggest challenge you have overcome over the past year?
The past year has been marked by a significant achievement: Successfully executing an enterprise-wide partnership with a leading global hotel brand. This involved rolling out new functionalities to thousands of hotels and conducting extensive onboarding and training. It's been a monumental step forward in our journey.
5. How have you incorporated environmental, social and governance efforts into your hospitality operations?
Our [diversity, equity and inclusion] workstream, dedicated to product accessibility, exemplifies our commitment to ESG by integrating inclusivity and sustainability into our operations.
6. What are you most excited about accomplishing over the next year?
Over the next year, I'm thrilled about the opportunity to apply the valuable insights gained from deploying Kipsu on a global scale with a major brand, to expand and replicate this success across other leading names in the hospitality industry. This ambitious endeavor highlights our confidence in leveraging cutting-edge technology to redefine guest experiences worldwide.
7. What is the value of meeting hospitality buyers one-on-one?
Engaging one-on-one with hospitality buyers is crucial, as it directly enhances our enterprise relationships and informs our product development. Founded on the principle of building strong connections with frontline staff and industry partners, we deeply value the unique perspectives and insights gained from these personal interactions.
Hotec Operations will take place June 11-14 at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Applications are open for buyers and suppliers.