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Innovation dans l’hôtellerie
Woman sitting in a modern space, using a smartphone. Illustration of digital technologies in the hotel industry to improve the customer experience.

Technological innovations that are transforming the hotel industry in 2024

November 12, 2024
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6 min read
The hotel industry is constantly evolving, and 2024 marks a pivotal year, with the emergence of new technologies that are redefining the customer experience and optimizing property management. These innovations are part of a dynamic of digitalization and increased personalization, allowing hotels to meet the expectations of an ever more demanding clientele. This article explores the main advances that are transforming the hotel sector in 2024 and explains how each establishment can take advantage of these technologies to stand out.

1. Digitalization of services thanks to digital room directories

The digital room directory is emerging as one of the major innovations in the hotel industry in 2024. Like the solutions offered by companies like Sunver, this type of service allows hotels, campsites and tourist residences to offer easy and instant access to essential information for their customers. These platforms, accessible via a simple QR code, replace traditional paper booklets and allow real-time interaction, thus reducing requests at the reception.

Benefits for hoteliers and customers

Digital room directories allow hotels to highlight their additional services (spa, room service, local excursions), while facilitating online reservations and payments. For guests, instant access to this information enhances the experience and simplifies their stay. In addition, by eliminating paper booklets, hotels are committed to an eco-responsible approach in line with modern expectations, making it easier to obtain labels such as the Green Key.

2. Artificial intelligence for advanced personalization of the customer experience

Solutions based on artificial intelligence (AI) are at the heart of the transformations in the hotel industry in 2024. Chatbots, powered by technologies like GPT-4, allow institutions to manage frequent requests by automating responses to common questions. In addition, AI offers the ability to personalize the customer experience according to their preferences, by recommending activities, services, or special offers.

Concrete examples of use

Chatbots can, for example, answer customer questions about breakfast schedules, service rates, or available activities in real time. They also make it possible to gather feedback to improve the quality of service. By combining AI and automation, hotels optimize their management and reduce staff workload.

3. Integrated online payment for a frictionless experience

Integrating online payments into hotel services simplifies transactions and improves customer satisfaction. In 2024, hotels are offering payment solutions via platforms like Stripe, Apple Pay and Google Pay to allow customers to pay for their purchases directly from their phones. Whether for additional services, activity bookings or impulse purchases, online payments provide real fluidity.

Why online payments are essential

With online payments, establishments increase their additional income by facilitating access to services, without requiring direct contact with staff. This approach meets the expectations of modern customers, who are used to fast and secure transactions. By allowing more spontaneous purchases, hotels optimize their turnover and build customer loyalty.

4. Virtual reality and augmented reality for an immersive taste

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionizing the way hotels present their spaces and services. In 2024, these technologies allow customers to virtually visit rooms, facilities and even the surroundings of the establishment before booking. VR and AR also make it easy to view special offers, like premium suites or wellness services.

How do these technologies impact bookings?

Hotels that incorporate virtual reality experiences capture the attention of customers by offering them a detailed overview of the property, which can encourage bookings. For example, an online visitor can virtually explore the spa, imagine themselves in a luxury room, or discover the surrounding landscapes. This visual immersion builds customer trust and improves conversions.

5. Automated management solutions: PMS, CRM, and data integration

The automated management of hotel establishments is becoming essential in 2024, with systems such as Property Management Systems (PMS) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) that centralize information and simplify operations. With these tools, hotels optimize reservation management, billing and customer communication.

Benefits of integrating management systems

Connected PMS and CRMs allow institutions to personalize interactions, automate availability updates, and ensure better resource management. Hotels can thus anticipate the needs of their customers, send personalized reminders and offer targeted offers. By integrating real-time data, these solutions improve operational efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction.

6. Mobile applications for a connected stay

Mobile applications play a key role in the customer experience in 2024. Indeed, many hotel chains now offer dedicated applications that allow customers to check in/check out, order services or consult information directly on their smartphone.

Why mobile applications are becoming indispensable

For customers, these applications are synonymous with simplicity and convenience. They can access information at the click of a button, without the need to ask staff. Mobile applications also allow hotels to communicate directly with customers via notifications, increasing engagement and loyalty.

7. Sustainability at the heart of hotel innovations

Eco-responsibility is a pillar of technological innovations in the hotel industry in 2024. Institutions are adopting sustainable technological solutions to reduce their carbon footprint, such as digital room directories (as offered by Sunver) and smart energy management systems. These solutions contribute to the reduction of resource consumption and allow hotels to adhere to environmental certifications, thus meeting the expectations of customers who are increasingly sensitive to ecological issues.

Impact of sustainability on the reputation of establishments

Eco-responsible hotels attract more customers, especially those concerned about their environmental impact. By adopting practices that respect the environment, hotels strengthen their image and differentiate themselves on the market. Sustainability is becoming a competitive asset, contributing to customer loyalty and business growth.

Conclusion: A promising future for connected and sustainable hotels

Technological innovations are redefining the hotel industry in 2024, transforming management practices and the customer experience. By investing in solutions like digital room directories, artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence, online payments, and integrated management systems, establishments can not only improve operational efficiency, but also increase customer satisfaction. In addition, by integrating eco-responsible initiatives, hotels position themselves as committed and attractive players for modern and demanding customers.

Create, personalize, and share your AI-assisted digital Room Directory.

Offer your customers a sublime experience, reduce solicitations and boost your additional revenue.

Article written by:

Nathan Assouline

Co-founder of Sunver

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