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Hospitality trends in 2026: What will shape the next stage of business growth

The hospitality sector is preparing for a period of rapid transformation. Guest expectations are evolving, technology is advancing at an impressive pace and global travel continues to strengthen. As 2026 approaches, businesses are using new developments to improve efficiency, elevate guest experience and build long term advantage.

Below are five major trends that will shape the industry in 2026, supported by real world examples and reasons these shifts matter.

This is a diagram showing AI-supported personalisation in hospitality, illustrating predictive recommendations, faster guest services, tailored room preferences, reduced workload and higher guest satisfaction.

AI supported personalisation will enhance service quality

Artificial intelligence is becoming central to guest service delivery. Hotels are adopting intelligent tools that support front office operations, anticipate guest needs and provide more personalised experiences.

Marriott International uses predictive data to tailor recommendations, from dining choices to room preferences. Accor has introduced AI powered systems that allow faster responses to guest requests, resulting in shorter waiting times and more consistent service.

Businesses benefit from reduced manual workload, improved efficiency and higher guest satisfaction. AI also frees staff to focus on meaningful interactions which strengthens brand loyalty and overall service experience.

Wellness will become an essential part of the guest journey

Wellbeing focused travel continues to expand and in 2026 it will influence hotel design, food service, recreation and even sleep environments. Guests increasingly look for spaces that support mindfulness, rest and holistic health.

Six Senses has set global standards with personalised wellness programmes that combine nutrition, relaxation and movement. Hilton has incorporated sleep improvement features such as air purification and ambient light design which have improved guest feedback across markets.

This trend offers businesses strong commercial advantages. Wellness programmes attract travellers willing to invest in high value experiences and they create differentiation in competitive destinations.

This image shows a chef checking the dishes before serving to guests. The dishes are prepared with elements from different cultures.

Food and beverage spaces will inspire curiosity and cultural connection

Dining experiences are becoming signature attractions that influence how guests choose hotels. Restaurants that celebrate local flavours, creativity and sustainability draw travellers seeking authentic cultural engagement.

The Ritz Carlton has elevated restaurant identity by partnering with regional producers and showcasing local culinary stories. The Standard Hotels attract both guests and residents with creative menus and diverse cultural programming.

These approaches expand revenue opportunities, strengthen brand visibility and increase guest loyalty.

Sustainability will guide operational decisions

Sustainable practices are moving from optional initiatives to essential business strategy. Energy management systems, water saving technology and environmentally conscious design are now critical for long term competitiveness.

IHG reports significant reductions in energy consumption through its Green Engage system which is adopted across many of its properties. Scandic Hotels has become a global leader in responsible operations with advanced waste reduction practices and transparent reporting.

Following sustainability principles supports regulatory expectations, improves cost efficiency and strengthens guest trust. Increasingly travellers prefer brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility.

This is a picture of Lucerne is a city with significant cultural richness and a high degree of international diversity, largely driven by its prominence as a global tourist destination and a hub for arts and music.

Experiential travel will prioritise local engagement

Travellers in 2026 want to connect with local culture, community and nature in meaningful ways. Hotels are responding by developing activities that offer deeper immersion and genuine learning opportunities.

Airbnb Experiences demonstrates the power of community based tourism, where guests participate in creative workshops, guided explorations and skill based activities with local hosts. Luxury hospitality groups like Aman design cultural programmes such as local craft sessions and storytelling evenings.

For businesses this trend enhances brand authenticity, supports regional development and increases guest satisfaction by offering memorable and distinctive experiences.

Key takeaways for hospitality leaders in 2026

The year ahead will reward businesses that embrace innovation, authenticity and responsibility.
Key points include:

Technology driven personalisation will redefine how guests interact with brands
Wellness will shift from an optional offering to a core expectation
Food and beverage concepts will become cultural signature experiences
Sustainability will be essential to cost control, brand trust and long term value
Experiential travel will strengthen guest connection and destination identity

Organisations that invest in these areas will be better placed to attract new travellers, increase loyalty and build a resilient future in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

This image shows a student of BHMS in class learning about technology awareness and sustainable thinking into its education environment.

How BHMS prepares future professionals for these industry demands

As the hospitality sector evolves, it requires graduates who understand global trends and can apply them in real operational settings. BHMS prepares students for this future by integrating practical learning, technology awareness and sustainable thinking into its education environment.

The Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management offers a strong foundation in leadership, service excellence, innovation and modern business practice. Students gain the skills and confidence to thrive in an industry that is changing faster than ever before.