The hospitality industry is continuously evolving and growing, particularly in New Zealand. In this blog, we cover the top trends to keep you in the loop and think outside the box.
Co-Living Spaces – The New Hotel?
We know that Airbnb is the alternative to hotels, but now some hotel chains are offering their own version through co-living spaces where visitors can choose the level of privacy or community they want to experience. AccorHotels’ new brand Jo&Joe has created a new ‘open house’ category of accommodation for neighbours and travellers alike. This includes collaborative kitchens, a bar for locals and guests, a ‘happy house’ area creating a ‘home-like’ experience and even dormitory-style bedrooms if desired. The brand is also offering out-of-the-ordinary (known as OOO!) accommodation types like mud huts and beach shacks. Time will tell whether this approach takes off, but it does undeniably cater to a market of travellers who want a different experience to the standard hotel stay.
Not Just Accommodation
Travellers typically choose between two basic options when taking a trip overseas – a group tour or independent travel. Today the pre-packaged tour concept is on its way out and hoteliers are arranging custom tour options to attract more travellers instead. Airbnb is also heading in this direction. Last year they launched ‘Trips’ (tours and activities) and ‘Places’ (meetups and event suggestions), and have hinted soon to introducing new services like restaurant bookings and grocery deliveries through the app. Hotel services are also evolving. The AccorHotels branch Onefinestay.com has partnered with Context Travel to offer local experiences. Others include the Peninsular Hotel’s red-carpet photoshoots and Four Seasons Hotels where guests can experience helicopter rides and private jet experiences.
Greater Flexibility Around Accommodation Pricing
Competition is fierce and travellers can compare prices at the click of a button. Hotels that can adjust to the market quickly and adjust their prices at the drop of a hat are staying ahead of the curve and providing customers with the competitive pricing they are after.
Smart Hotel Technology
Features like streamed in-room entertainment and smartphone apps controlling electricals are taking technology to a new level. Location-based technology lets hoteliers track guests and offer personalised service. Geolocation technology points guests to venues they might like most while they’re out and about.
Fast ‘Fine’ Food
Most people like fast food, but with consumers more health-conscious than ever, not everyone wants McDonalds or Dominos. The latest fast-food trends include gourmet pizzas, ultra-fresh sushi, pre-made delivered dinners, chef-endorsed meals and options catering to special diets like paleo and gluten-free.
More Healthy Food Options
Vegetarian and vegan menus aren’t as niche as they were and while clean eating and less processed foods are seen as buzz words in the industry, the most successful restaurants are catering to all the markets on their menus. Even McDonalds hinted at the potential for a McVegan burger this year.
Localism Is The New Luxury
In the face of competition from Airbnb and its emphasis on authentic rather than ‘tourist’ experiences, localism is the new buzzword circulating hotels. It’s no longer about serving Swiss chocolates and French wine; now guests want local produce in their rooms and on the restaurant menu. It’s a contrast to the cookie-cutter experience that many hotel chains offer, which means in 2018 management needs to find that sweet spot somewhere between providing a holiday experience and making guests feel they are living like locals.
Bartercard can help you stay on top of the latest trends without the expensive price tag. There are over 6,000 registered Bartercard businesses New Zealand wide, including restaurants, bars, hotels, resorts and suppliers that utilise Bartercard as one of their primary business growth strategies. To attract and retain customers, increase business profits and feel energised by your business, contact Bartercard about joining today.
