The local hospitality industry is expected to grow in the short-term, mainly due to SA`s hosting of the Fifa World Cup next year.
This is according to Frost & Sullivan analyst Lindsey Mc Donald. Speaking yesterday at the Avaya Hospitality Day, held at The Saxon Hotel, in Johannesburg, Mc Donald addressed technology trends within the hospitality industry.
According to Mc Donald, this short-term growth needs to be sustained over the next five to 10 years, as a long-term plan.
"The industry needs to ensure the focus for growth and expansion goes beyond the World Cup next year. While it cannot be denied the event has been a significant kick-start to the industry, it is very important that new entrants to the hospitality sector are properly equipped to remain viable when the last of the spectators go home next year," she says.
"Industry growth is naturally expected to slow after the tournament, but if hospitality businesses are properly established and operated, there is no reason why new opportunities won`t arise after 2010."
Frost & Sullivan says SA`s favourable exchange rate is attracting tourists to the country. Conversely, a lack of specialised tourism industry skills is restraining the growth of the sector.
"Cost saving is a key driver [for the hospitality industry] with 30% of operational costs attributed to labour," Mc Donald adds. "We`re seeing a big drive in automation in terms of reception areas, as well as food and beverage processes."
The economic crisis has not bypassed the tourism industry and decreasing operational costs through automation makes financial sense, says the research firm.
Automation will eventually decrease the amount of staff employed, which - in turn - will help alleviate the skills shortage problem, notes the analyst.
Other notable trends include venues offering business guests WiFi and video conferencing technologies as standard features in high-class accommodation suites, the interoperability of MP3 and video connectivity with LCD screens, and using handsets and TVs to complement the d'ecor, she says.
"It`s really about ensuring the comfort of your guests. Free WiFi and Internet should be the order of the day."
The objective of many members of the hospitality industry is to offer a personalised experience, she continues. "The key to achieving this is through IP-telephony services. Offer guests a portal to hotel services and track their activities, thereby utilising intelligent processes to build brand loyalty."
Share