Hospitality Think Tank

The meeting began with a discussion on the current economic situation and investment trends, with participants sharing insights on the challenges faced by investors in finding viable opportunities, the influence of interest rates on investment decisions, and the need to adapt to disruptive events. The conversation also included specific examples from different regions, such as Finland, Mexico, and Vietnam, shedding light on the impact of the pandemic and the varying levels of investor confidence in different sectors.

The main topic of the meeting was sustainable hotel development, with participants discussing the complexities of building sustainable hotels, the interplay between operations, construction, owner and operator mindsets, and the alignment of brand values with sustainability goals. The discussion also delved into the challenges of reducing emissions in building operations and construction, with participants highlighting the potential dilemma of investing in carbon to make buildings more energy efficient. The participants emphasized the importance of considering external limitations and the use of technology and smart building management systems to contribute to sustainable building practices.

The meeting also touched on the challenges of promoting sustainability in the hospitality industry and changing consumer behavior. Participants highlighted the importance of education, storytelling, and making customers feel like active participants in the sustainability journey. The conversation delved into the need for a shift in mindset towards quality over quantity, and the potential role of financial incentives and government oversight in driving faster change. The speakers also emphasized the significance of sharing sustainable results and involving customers in meaningful actions towards a better world.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the intricate process of providing hospitality services, emphasizing the educational aspect for both guests and employees. Participants acknowledged the complexity of the discussion and the lack of clear answers, while highlighting the tools and perspectives provided for making buildings more sustainable. The section concluded with a call for open sharing of solutions and learning from failures in the community, emphasizing the importance of honesty and vulnerability in the pursuit of knowledge and progress.

Full conversation here:

With the participation of Willem van Bolderen (Studio Puisto), MariaPia Intini (CitizenM), Hylton Lipkin (Banyan Tree), and Celine Vadam (WE(i) Think)