Latest news with #hospitalitytech
Hospitality Net
10-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Agentic AI: What It Is, How It's Different, and Why It Matters in Hospitality
When we say 'AI agents,' we're not talking about the suit-wearing, memory-wiping types from Men in Black, but these new agents might be just as transformative. In the world of hotel tech, AI agents are emerging as intelligent, task-driven assistants that work behind the scenes to simplify operations, boost efficiency, and create better guest experiences. Instead of battling aliens, these agents are here to tackle fragmented systems, reduce manual workloads, and unlock a smarter, more connected future for hospitality. And unlike the old 'app-for-everything' approach, agentic AI offers a more agile, scalable way to run your hotel. What Is Agentic AI? Agentic AI refers to AI systems that act as autonomous agents, they can set goals, make decisions, and take actions independently, often across multiple steps, without requiring human input at each stage. Unlike traditional AI, which is typically built to perform narrow, pre-defined tasks (like forecasting tomorrow's occupancy or auto-responding to a guest inquiry), Agentic AI is designed to operate proactively, often across a chain of tasks, using reasoning, memory, and planning to achieve outcomes. Traditional AI vs. Agentic AI FeatureTraditional AIAgentic AI Task Scope Single, narrow Multi-step, dynamic Autonomy Reactive Proactive Memory Stateless or limited context Long-term memory and self-reflection Planning No Yes Adaptability Pre-programmed Learns and adjusts on the fly Agentic AI systems are often powered by large language models (LLMs) or multi-modal models, and embedded within software 'agents' that can interact with APIs, tools, and even users to accomplish goals. Think of them more like capable digital assistants than calculators. Agentic AI Use Cases in Hospitality In the context of hotel operations and technology, Agentic AI could radically improve productivity and guest experience. Here are a few realistic examples: Automated Revenue Optimization Agent An agent could continuously monitor booking patterns, competitor rates, and demand forecasts, adjusting prices in real time, while also coordinating with the marketing system to push special offers on low-occupancy nights. An agent could continuously monitor booking patterns, competitor rates, and demand forecasts, adjusting prices in real time, while also coordinating with the marketing system to push special offers on low-occupancy nights. Email booking automation Agentic AI can read and understand incoming booking and inquiry emails, extract key details, check availability, update systems, and respond with personalized confirmations or follow-up questions, automating what used to take multiple staff and systems. Agentic AI can read and understand incoming booking and inquiry emails, extract key details, check availability, update systems, and respond with personalized confirmations or follow-up questions, automating what used to take multiple staff and systems. Customer Support Agentic AI can transform hotel chatbots and call centers from passive responders into proactive assistants that understand guest intent, take real action across systems, and deliver seamless, personalized service, day or night. Agentic AI can transform hotel chatbots and call centers from passive responders into proactive assistants that understand guest intent, take real action across systems, and deliver seamless, personalized service, day or night. Guest Journey Concierge Instead of a chatbot that only replies to questions, an agentic concierge could plan a guest's full experience: making dinner reservations, scheduling spa treatments, and sending updates. All tailored to guest preferences and executed across different internal systems. Instead of a chatbot that only replies to questions, an agentic concierge could plan a guest's full experience: making dinner reservations, scheduling spa treatments, and sending updates. All tailored to guest preferences and executed across different internal systems. IT Support and Monitoring Agent Agentic AI could monitor your hotel's technology infrastructure (POS, PMS, Wi-Fi, door locks), identify issues, and automatically file support tickets or perform resets. In smaller properties, it could act as a virtual IT administrator. Agentic AI could monitor your hotel's technology infrastructure (POS, PMS, Wi-Fi, door locks), identify issues, and automatically file support tickets or perform resets. In smaller properties, it could act as a virtual IT administrator. Onboarding and Training Agent New staff could interact with an AI agent that not only answers questions but proactively guides them through procedures, checks their progress, and customizes training based on real-time performance and system access logs. New staff could interact with an AI agent that not only answers questions but proactively guides them through procedures, checks their progress, and customizes training based on real-time performance and system access logs. Procurement and Inventory Agent An agent could monitor usage data, identify key trends from your F&B systems, forecast supply needs, and automatically source and place orders with suppliers. The Challenge: Fragmented Tech Stacks and Siloed Data One of the biggest hurdles to adopting Agentic AI in hospitality is fragmentation. The typical hotel tech stack includes dozens of separate systems: PMS, POS, CRS, RMS, CRM, HR, and more, each with its own database, interface, and logic. Agentic AI thrives in environments where it can see the whole picture and interact with systems freely. In a hotel setting, that's rarely the case. Here's why fragmentation poses specific problems: Lack of Integration Agents need programmatic access to systems via APIs or tools. Many hotel tech vendors still offer limited or closed integrations, making it hard for an agent to 'act.' Agents need programmatic access to systems via APIs or tools. Many hotel tech vendors still offer limited or closed integrations, making it hard for an agent to 'act.' Data Silos Guest profiles, booking data, staff schedules, and maintenance records are often stored in disconnected systems. An agent that doesn't have a holistic view will be severely limited. Guest profiles, booking data, staff schedules, and maintenance records are often stored in disconnected systems. An agent that doesn't have a holistic view will be severely limited. Inconsistent Data Quality Data formats and quality vary even when systems are connected. One system may list 'Mr. Smith,' another 'John Smith,' and a third 'J. Smith.' Disambiguating such entries requires complex reconciliation logic. Data formats and quality vary even when systems are connected. One system may list 'Mr. Smith,' another 'John Smith,' and a third 'J. Smith.' Disambiguating such entries requires complex reconciliation logic. Security and Compliance Agentic systems that operate across multiple data sets and tools increase the risk of security breaches or non-compliance, especially with regulations like GDPR or PCI DSS. The Advent of Agentic AI Marketplaces Agent marketplaces are quickly emerging as hubs for hoteliers to find, review, test and deploy industry-specific solutions. This flexibility is redefining scalability and efficiency for all types of hospitality businesses. Apaleo recently announced Agent Hub, an industry first. where hotels and vendors can discover, customize, and deploy agents built for everything from email bookings and CRM insights to marketing and digital twins, connected via Apaleo's existing APIs. This means that hotels get fast, low-risk access to smart helpers without waiting on custom development or ripping out legacy platforms. What Hotel Tech Leaders Can Do Despite these challenges, the shift toward Agentic AI is inevitable, and worth preparing for. Here's how hotel tech professionals can lay the groundwork: Prioritize Open APIs Choose vendors that offer full API access and are willing to work with external orchestration layers. Unify Data Where Possible Consider a hospitality data platform or middleware that centralizes key data across systems. Document Business Logic Agents need to understand how things work. Well-documented SOPs and workflows can serve as scaffolding for their decision-making. Start Small Begin with constrained use-cases (e.g., rate adjustment or maintenance ticket triage) before expanding to more complex agent tasks. Implement Strong Oversight Ensure human-in-the-loop oversight, especially for guest-facing or sensitive operations. Suggested Reads Agentic AI explained on Wikipedia - Link NVIDEA Blog - What Is Agentic AI? - Link Top 10 Trends Driving Hospitality Into an Agent-First World - Link Apaleo unveils Agent Hub - link Video # 1 - Business Transformation with Agentic AI Video # 2 - Automating Email with Agentic AI During the recent EHL Open Innovation Summit, we spoke with Romy Abbrederis, Co-founder of Lobby, about how agentic AI is reshaping hotel operations behind the scenes. Our conversation explored how Lobby tackles the complexity of reservation emails, why modular systems are key to adapting to different hotel needs, and how AI can support hospitality teams without replacing the human element. Conclusion While it's challenging to forecast the exact pace of adoption, one thing is certain: Agentic AI is a game-changing opportunity for the hotel industry. This technology stands to benefit all stakeholders, enhancing the guest experience with faster, more personalized interactions; empowering staff by automating routine tasks and freeing up time for high-value service; and driving profitability and efficiency for hotel owners. The road ahead points to a more connected, responsive, and profitable industry that delivers a truly elevated digital guest journey. To be continued :-)
Hospitality Net
10-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Maestro to Showcase Full Suite of All-In-One PMS Innovations at HITEC Indianapolis
MARKHAM, Ontario —Maestro PMS will showcase the latest enhancements to its industry-defining property-management system in Booth #2411 at HITEC North America 2025, to be held June 16 to 19 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. As a platinum sponsor of the premier technology event, Maestro will display its full selection of offerings, including its popular Guest Experience Management System (GuestXMS), in-demand embedded payments solution MezzoPay with unique integration to Silverware POS, newly enhanced Spa Management module, and the much-anticipated Maestro Touch — a powerful new feature of Maestro PMS designed to revolutionize the front desk user experience. Attendees can also preview powerful updates to the Front Desk and Sales & Catering systems, designed to boost operational speed, improve data visibility, and simplify complex workflows for staff. Maestro PMS is constantly innovating, and we are eager to showcase our latest feature set at HITEC Indy. Maestro's impactful technology is helping independent hotel operators take greater control of their operations while enhancing both guest and staff experiences. The tools we will demonstrate and display are enabling hoteliers to thrive and remain competitive as modern travelers' demands continue to evolve. We invite all attendees to experience the most reliable, flexible, and secure PMS on the market. Lisa Jane 'LJ' Wheaton, Maestro Senior Product Strategist Maestro PMS was designed from the ground up to help new hires and longtime hospitality veterans deliver world-class experiences without being sidetracked by technology. The platform continues to grow due to a constant stream of free updates and expansive training tools. The following system updates and new capabilities will be on display in Booth #2411: Enhanced Two-Way Guest & Staff Messaging Maestro's messaging platform, GuestXMS, is enabling staff and guests to communicate effortlessly through two-way SMS messaging built into Maestro PMS. Today, the award-winning service has expanded to include WhatsApp Integration. Maestro users can now communicate with guests without limits or collecting unnecessary international messaging fees. WhatsApp expands communication across a property, even if its location limits access to mobile networks. Unique POS Integration with Silverware Maestro is proud to continue strengthening its strategic partnership with Silverware through a unique and seamless POS integration. This advanced integration enables direct connectivity between guest reservations and table bookings, allowing users to book, view, or cancel dining reservations directly within the Maestro Property Management System (PMS). Key guest information — including gift card balances, loyalty status, health requirements, and special requests — is shared in real time across both platforms, enhancing the overall guest experience. Together, Maestro and Silverware empower independent hoteliers to deliver a level of service and sophistication that rivals branded hospitality operators, particularly at critical guest touchpoints in the buying journey. Expanded Spa Management & Single Guest Itinerary Capabilities Maestro's spa management module recently updated its user interface to improve usability and consistency while expanding its feature set to help guests choose a service that will define their stay. Leveraging GuestXMS-enabled spa notifications. The Wait Is Almost Over: Preview Maestro Touch at HITEC The much-anticipated Maestro Touch is now in pilot with select clients and nearing its official debut. This next-generation interface brings a modern, streamlined, and touch-friendly design to the Maestro PMS platform — built to enhance usability with mobile devices and deliver a more intuitive user experience. Since first announcing the next-generation interface, Maestro has continued to refine and enhance the experience using insights gathered through live pilot testing. HITEC attendees will get an exclusive sneak peek at the latest version, so stop by the booth to see how Maestro Touch is reshaping the way operators interact with their PMS. Enhanced Front Desk Efficiency New front desk features are streamlining operations and improving guest personalization. Teams can now upload documents directly to guests, groups, and client profiles. Additional enhancements include advance deposit options by rate type, and improved tools for managing rates and resort fees. 'Maestro clients can access options to SMS appointment confirmations, pre-arrival reminders and (when staying on property) the Single Guest Itinerary of all scheduled appointments and activities,' Wheaton said. 'This is designed to ensure that guests never miss an appointment." For more information on Maestro, visit HITEC Booth #2411, or visit Click here to book a meeting to speak with our team at HITEC. About Maestro Maestro is the preferred cloud hosted or on-premises All-In-One Web PMS solution for independent hotels, luxury resorts, conference centers, vacation rentals, and multi-property groups. Maestro's PCI certified and EMV ready enterprise system offers 20+ integrated modules on a single database including touchless and mobile apps to increase engagement, drive direct bookings, centralize operations; all while enabling a unified & seamless guest journey from booking to checkout and everything in between. For over 45 years Maestro's Diamond Plus Service has provided unparalleled 24/7 support and education services to keep hospitality groups thriving and productive. Click here for more information on Maestro PMS. Click here to get your free PMS Buying guide. Barb Worcester
Hospitality Net
09-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Exhibit Space for HFTP's HITEC 2025 in Indianapolis is Sold Out
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) has announced that exhibit space for the 2025 Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC®) is officially sold out, with 360+ companies exhibiting across 81,500 net sq. ft. of exhibit space. This milestone reflects the central role technology plays within the hospitality space and how imperative it is for industry professionals to keep abreast of the continually evolving technology central to operations. HITEC 2025 will be held June 16–19, 2025, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis with 5,800+ attendees expected. The event remains the world's largest and longest-running hospitality technology conference and exhibition. We're proud to see HITEC 2025 sell out, even after expanding the show floor. Unlike for-profit events, HITEC is rooted in our nonprofit mission. Every dollar goes back into the hospitality industry— whether through research, certification, education, or member services. That's why exhibitors and attendees return year after year. Frank Wolfe, CAE, FIH, HFTP CEO Innovation Across the Show Floor The HITEC exhibit hall will spotlight cutting-edge hospitality solutions across a wide spectrum, including: Artificial Intelligence & Chatbots Property Management Systems Cybersecurity & Data Protection Cloud Infrastructure Payment Processing Robotics & In-room Technology Guest Engagement Platforms Energy & Sustainability Solutions Mobile Apps and More Full List of Exhibitors HITEC is the go-to event for companies serious about reaching hospitality decision-makers. To be sold out is a strong indicator of the show's relevance and reputation. We're incredibly grateful to our returning partners and excited to welcome many first-time exhibitors. Debra Cukjati-Lineberry, HFTP SVP of Global Development In light of the sold-out status of the exhibit hall, HFTP reminds the industry that HITEC has a policy against pirate exhibitors (often known as outboarders or suitcasers). It is common for unaffiliated or non-exhibiting vendors to take advantage of the show's popularity by promoting their wares leading up to and near the show, or on the exhibit hall floor in an unofficial capacity. For those who missed the chance to exhibit, HFTP offers a HITEC Supporters Package, providing alternate visibility and limited on-site opportunities. To learn more, contact [email protected]. Register today on multiple attendee options available. And mark your calendars for HITEC 2026 on June 15–28 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with an offices in the EU. HFTP is recognized as a group supporting the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. In addition, it oversees the hospitality-specific and the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI), Hotel-Online and Hospitality Upgrade Magazine. For more information about HFTP, visit Eliza Selig Chief Marketing Officer +1 512 220 4026 HFTP
Hospitality Net
02-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
One Startup. One Shot. $50K on the Line: Techne Infinite Ventures and GAIN Launch the Nextwave Seed Investment Challenge at HITEC ‘25
Indianapolis, USA - Techne Infinite Ventures and Growth Advisors International Network – GAIN, are proud to announce the Nextwave Seed Investment Challenge @ HITEC '25, a bold new initiative giving one hospitality tech startup, attending or exhibiting at HITEC '25 in Indy, the chance to secure a $50,000 investment and game-changing strategic commercial support. One Startup. One Shot. $50K on the Line. This is more than a pitch - it's a high-stakes opportunity for founders to fast-track their growth, skip the noise, and connect directly with Silicon Valley investors and commercial advisors at the hospitality tech industry's premier event. And this year, we want YOUR help nominating the most deserving startup. Nominate a game-changing hospitality tech startup, who is confirmed to be attending or exhibiting at HITEC '25, for a shot at $50K from Techne Infiniti Ventures and GAIN. Nomination applications are open from June 2 – 10, 2025. Out of the overall nominations received, eight short listed startups will have the unique opportunity to meet 1-on-1 with Techne and GAIN, during the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) HITEC conference. One final standout will be selected and announced on Thursday June 19th during the final day of HITEC '25, to advance to Techne's due diligence process for a potential $50,000 investment through Techne's Scaler Program, along with 20 hours of high-impact professional commercial advisory support from GAIN. Hospitality innovation needs activation platforms like the Nextwave Seed Investment Challenge @ HITEC'25, that are bold, founder-first, and focused on real outcomes. At GAIN, we're proud to stand beside Techne in launching this initiative at HITEC '25, that delivers true impact and streamlines direct engagement with some the top founders in our industry. Michael Cohen, Managing Partner of Growth Advisors International Network - GAIN To qualify, startups must be registered as HITEC attendees or exhibitors. This ensures only active, engaged start-up companies attending the conference get a shot at the prize, and that every conversation at HITEC is real, relevant, and growth-focused. Techne is a hospitality focused fund investing in transformative technologies. Our Scaler Program is designed to help high potential startups get from traction to scale with a custom engagement for each company focused on go-to-market and ecosystem led growth. Our world class advisors come from Silicon Valley tech, top hospitality and travel industry leadership, and the venture investment community. With this proven model, we expect our portfolio companies to create outsized value and drive disruption to the industry. At HITEC '25, we are proud to be partnering with GAIN and we're raising the stakes. Anjali Arora, Founding Partner at Techne Infiniti Ventures Ready to Nominate? Email [email protected] with the startup company name, website, LinkedIn page and contact info of the founders, to nominate a deserving startup who is also confirmed to be attending or exhibiting at HITEC '25. Let's shape the future of hospitality tech — one startup at a time. Founders, self-nominations are welcome! About Techne Infiniti Ventures Techne is a Silicon Valley venture capital firm investing in next-generation AI-driven hospitality & travel technologies. With deep industry, technology and investment expertise, and an extensive global network of experts in hospitality and travel, Techne operates a venture studio, a scaler program, and makes direct investments. About Growth Advisors International Network (GAIN) GAIN, the leading global travel & hospitality advisory firm for growth & innovation, is a specialized network of travel and hospitality industry veterans, innovators, and strategists. Through strategic industry access, networking and VIP events activations, and highly focused product, go to market and AI-enhanced advisory services, GAIN enables startups, scaleups and enterprise entities, to accelerate innovation and efficiently scale, in a rapidly evolving global marketplace. Zoe Koumbouzi GAIN - Growth Advisors International Network
Hospitality Net
26-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Claudia Infante: A Chief Data Officer's take on hotel tech, integration, and data strategy
How do you balance guest experience with data security in an industry built on personal connections? In this episode of The Turndown, Claudia Infante, Chief Data Officer at Margaritaville, shares her perspective on the evolving role of technology in hospitality—what's working, what's missing, and what needs to change. From guest data management to AI and facial recognition, Claudia breaks down how hotels can leverage technology without losing the heart of hospitality. She also shares her thoughts on the next generation of industry leaders and why seamless tech integrations are still one of the biggest pain points in hospitality. Plus, we hear about her career journey from banquet server to hospitality tech leader and what earning a Lifetime Achievement Award means to her. About Cloudbeds Cloudbeds is the leading platform redefining the concept of PMS for the hospitality industry, serving tens of thousands of properties in more than 150 countries worldwide. Built from the ground up to be masterfully unified and scalable, the award-winning Cloudbeds Platform brings together built-in and integrated solutions that modernize hotel operations & finance, distribution & marketing, guest experience, and revenue & analytics. Founded in 2012, Cloudbeds has been named a top PMS, Hotel Management System and Channel Manager (2021-2025) by Hotel Tech Report, World's Best Hotel PMS Solutions Provider (2022) by World Travel Awards, and recognized in Deloitte's Technology Fast 500 in 2024. Paula Carreirao PR & Partner Marketing Specialist
