Reflecting back on the last few years, they have been about reacting and evolving. Lockdowns, unprecedented demand, suppliers closing at short notice, customer demands changing, IT developments and staff shortages have all been overcome.
Will 2023 be the year the industry capitalises on being resilient and resourceful? With rising interest rates, and
un predictable energy bills, businesses need to keep on their toes to adapt where able. Coupled with a constantly evolving society, those businesses who can set themselves apart from the crowd are those most likely to do well this year.
Using a generic search engine to look for 'travel trends 2023' brings up a range of priorities for the 2023 traveller. To touch on just a few we expect to see this year:
- Inclusivity / open approach to diversity. With over 1.3m people in England and Wales identifying as LGBTQ +, providing a welcoming / friendly experience open to all will set a business apart.
- Hay-cations (you heard right) an even more rustic experience out in the wild countryside, where less is more - great news for converted barns, farm diversifications etc.
- Technology - with remote table top ordering via apps becoming the norm in many restaurants and app/phone booking a pre-requisite, what's next to enhance the experience? Apps to control in room heating, order room service, book meals, in room QR codes as an equivalent to 'what's on brochures' in lobbys...
- Eco credentials – visibility, knowledge and sincerity? Today's travellers are discerning, and not fooled by broad eco statements. The devil is in the detail, can you stand behind your credentials?
We are looking forward to working with our clients to see what the year brings.
By Jackie Kirsopp (Tourism & Hospitality Manager)
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