“AI – Artificial Intelligence, Astute Investments and Aesthetic Interiors are the three main pillars on which future development will depend. Whether we are looking at expansion, acquisition or mergers, AI – all three pillars – is all set to lead the way.”
Manav Thadani, Founder-Chairman, Hotelivate.
- HICSA 2023 has a very interesting theme. What was the rationale behind having AI as your central idea this year?
AI – Artificial Intelligence, Astute Investments and Aesthetic Interiors are the three main pillars on which future development will depend. Whether we are looking at expansion, acquisition or mergers, AI – all three pillars – is all set to lead the way. We, at Hotelivate, do believe in keeping up with the changing times and listening to the feedback that we get at the end of every HICSA. A lot of positive feedback was received for the sessions talking about Artificial Intelligence and that is when we thought that this was something that needs the importance it deserves.
- For most people, HICSA is synonymous with Mumbai and this year it’s Bangalore! What happened?
Well, that is not entirely true. We did it in Delhi in 2015 and 2016 and then again in 2021 post COVID. Yes, on all other occasions, the event was synonymous with Mumbai. Honestly, you tell me – if I ask you to pick a city which inspired you in terms of technology and innovation – which one would it be? Bangalore is the perfect destination for our AI-themed conference this year. Besides, the city has so much more to offer – amazing weather, excellent golf-courses, a new airport, bars and pubs, great hotels and restaurants. This year’s HICSA is not just a conference, we aim for it to be an experience for our delegates.
- Yes, that does bring me to my next question that I have been waiting to ask actually. What are these HICSA experiences that everyone seems to be talking about?
We are so excited about HICSA in this new avatar with a new theme, a new city in a new format and are so stoked that this year we have introduced four exciting new experiences for HICSA delegates to enjoy – the HICSA Golf Round and lunch, JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort and Spa Tour, The Owners Only Meet and Hotelivate’s Bengaluru Bar Hop as a post event.
The idea behind it again stemmed from the feedback received in the previous conferences that there should be more time allotted for networking. We do believe that you get more done when you’re having fun and connections and the relationships built over a round of golf, or over drinks undoubtedly have a significant impact.
“As a growing trend, I do see wellness tourism gaining increasing popularity. Holistic hospitality aims to provide guests with an immersive experience that promotes relaxation, rejuvenation, and healthy living. Keeping this in mind, HICSA 2023 will bring under one roof leading experts and stakeholders from around the world to explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the fast-growing wellness tourism industry.”
- Going back to the first AI – Artificial Intelligence, do you think AI will replace human resources in hotels and restaurants? Should people be worried that this will be the next thing to take away their jobs?
AI definitely has the potential to replace some jobs which are being done by people but this will only make it better for organisations as a smart AI model can actually enhance human capabilities and productivity by automating repetitive tasks and enabling humans to focus on more complex and creative tasks. By working together with AI, humans can achieve greater efficiency and accuracy in their work. The future of AI is likely to be both exciting and challenging; however, it will require a careful balance between technological advancement and ethical considerations to ensure that AI benefits society as a whole. It’s important for individuals and organizations to stay informed about the latest developments in AI and to invest in training and education to stay competitive in the workforce. Besides, I’m not worried at all, AI can’t plan and manage a conference. At least – not yet!
- Artificial Intelligence we get, but what is the rationale behind making Aesthetic Interiors another AI pillar in the conference?
A well-designed interior can create a positive first impression for guests and visitors and can help enhance the overall appeal and value of a property. There are either owners or operators here at HICSA and this is relevant for both sets. We will have some experts in the field to talk about all that is relevant in this context. It is particularly important in commercial settings such as hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, where aesthetics can play a major role in attracting customers and creating a memorable experience. Besides, an aesthetically pleasing environment can also increase productivity.
- We’ve covered the other two AIs, now the third – Astute Investments. Would this be relevant only for owners?
Astute Investments are important not only for hotel owners but also for hotel operators. From the perspective of hotel operators, one of their key responsibilities is to optimize revenue and return on investment for the hotel owner. Post-pandemic, most operators have been struggling with their budgets for renovations and upgrades to help them stay competitive in the market. But investments could be towards things like what we spoke about earlier like technology with contactless payments, virtual concierge assistants and so much more. The three AI pillars are the future of the industry and are linked together through their potential to create value, enhance user experiences, and optimize investment decisions.
- Moving on to the attendees, HICSA every year sees the top industry names in attendance, how is this year looking?
HICSA has been known to create the right networking and business development opportunities while enabling thought leaders of respective fields to make more informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve. This year, we are elated to have on board many movers and shakers of the industry. Anthony Capuano – Chief Executive Officer – Marriott International, Chris Nassetta – President and CEO -Hilton, Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO, IHCL, Neil Jacobs CEO, Six Senses Hotels, Resorts & Spas and Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO, Minor Hotels to name a few.
- Every year we see emerging trends in hospitality and get to know ‘buzzwords’ which get the industry talking, what’s trending these days?
Not really a buzzword, but as a growing trend, I do see wellness tourism gaining increasing popularity. Holistic hospitality aims to provide guests with an immersive experience that promotes relaxation, rejuvenation, and healthy living. Keeping this in mind, HICSA 2023 will bring under one roof leading experts and stakeholders from around the world to explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the fast-growing wellness tourism industry. With the COVID-19 pandemic having accelerated interest in health and wellness, the conference aims to examine how the tourism industry can capitalize on this growing demand by offering innovative products and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
