Hotels prepare for an AI-driven, unified future
IDeaS’ 2026 forecast highlights tech simplification, AI acceleration, and workforce transformation as key priorities for the year ahead
IDeaS’ new Future Forecast: Hospitality Tech Predictions for 2026 compiles survey insights from hoteliers and technology leaders, outlining how the industry can adapt to rising complexity, integrate AI effectively, and build more resilient organizations. The report urges hotels to simplify fragmented tech stacks, unify commercial functions, and leverage automation to empower people rather than replace them.
Key takeaways
- Technology simplification: Only 54% of hoteliers use mostly integrated systems, underscoring the need to unify tools and strategies for competitive advantage.
- AI-driven transformation: Nearly 9 in 10 hotels plan to deploy new AI solutions — from chatbots and mobile check-in to intelligent assistants that support real-time decisions.
- Unified commercial strategy: Future-ready hotels will merge revenue, marketing, and sales into cohesive teams guided by a single source of truth.
- Sustainability and profitability: Despite sustainability being a priority in principle, few act on it; the report outlines how forecasting and resource optimization can align eco-goals with profit.
- Workforce resilience: Automation, upskilling, and cross-training will be critical to attract and retain talent while ensuring operational stability.
- Expert perspectives: Contributors from Amadeus, TrustYou, Oaky, and Busyrooms emphasize the need to turn disruption into opportunity by empowering people through technology.
Download the report at IDeaS