Robin Gilbert-Jones

Hotel tech is shifting from cost center to growth engine, with AI, data integration, and guest-facing tools driving efficiency and revenue.

The hotel technology sector is shifting from cost center to growth engine, with AI, data integration, and guest-facing tools driving efficiency and revenue, but success hinges on modernized systems, cultural readiness, and proactive risk management

The hotel industry in 2025 faces a complex economic landscape, but forward-thinking brands that lean into loyalty, luxury, and live tourism are finding opportunity amid disruption.

AI won’t replace frontline travel roles, but by supercharging developer productivity, it’s reshaping how the entire industry hires, innovates, and grows.

As growth slows, hotels are embracing experience, innovation, and agility to navigate a cautious, yet resilient, travel landscape in 2025

The future of travel is social, visual, and creator-led.

Social media is no longer just inspiring travel, it’s where trips are being researched, priced, and booked. As platforms evolve into powerful sales channels, creators are becoming the new travel agents, short-form video is replacing static ads, and the booking journey is evolving into a low-friction social interaction.

Recession alarm bells are going off. A global downturn isn't our base case, but it's still worth reviewing how the travel industry might perform in a worst-case scenario. Even in a turbulent market, travel won't stop — it will shift.

AI and social commerce are reshaping travel, blending personalized automation with human connection across a mobile-first global market.

The ongoing live tourism boom provides compelling opportunities for hotels to maximize revenue by boosting average daily rates, extending stays, increasing guest volumes, and building long-term growth and loyalty.