by Georges Panayotis
Of all economic activities, Tourism is undoubtedly one of the first to adapt to changes in individual behavior and economic forces, generating the rise of new models in terms of services and products…
Contrary to what politicians have long believed, Tourism is not a minor industry; nor is it secondary or folkloric. It bears global challenges, brings global giants into play, requires a veritable strategy adapted to continents and countries alike.
Already several thousand years old, this activity is also the one that offers the best perspectives for the future since the desire and need to discover the world is self evident for new generations who do not wish to be locked in by to their native frontiers. Despite the unleashing of military violence and climatic or political issues, regularly experienced by major tourist destinations, the renaissance of Tourism remains a light at the end of the tunnel, and the populations actively engaged with it are increasingly numerous.
But this does not mean that situations cannot change. A cyclical renaissance goes hand in hand with upsets that shake up former models, challenged by the power of online distribution players, concerned with the ever rising role of the sharing economy. The evolution involves constant anticipation and invention. The hotel industry lies at the heart of this permanent re-evaluation and it is necessary to outline the new adaptations.
Developers have learned to let their imagination play and have invented new practices such as the multi-use complexes, where complementary businesses and hotel brands cohabit. New hybrid concepts break down virtual barriers between customer types that restricted presence in space-time. New partnerships are being implemented that address the needs of Generation Y more than traditional ones.
Hospitality is being reinvented and so much the better. For more than fifteen years, the Hospitality Awards have brought these innovations and individual experiences to the fore to share them and help our industry evolve. This will happen once again on November 5, 2015 at the 16th edition that will include a new improvement. The day will kick off with the 3rd TourInvest Forum, a new platform where investors and project leaders can gather and exchange. It is an opportunity to bring to life the fresh ideas of hospitality entrepreneurs and support the necessary transformation of our industry.
More than ever, Tourism is one of the activities that is key to the global economic order as are the march towards renewable energy or the introduction of robotics to daily lives. This new tourism order is being implemented and it would be preferable for all of today’s actors to keep an eye on it rather than regret not seeing something coming when it’s already too late.
