Digital transformation trends in the tourism sector: First half of 2024

As we enter 2024, digital transformation in the tourism sector presents itself as an unavoidable phenomenon that significantly influences the way hotels operate and interact with their customers. A clear example of this drive for innovation is EISI HOTEL, which during the first half of the year has implemented operational process digitalization projects in 625 establishments, affecting a total of 137,799 rooms globally. This initiative not only demonstrates the fundamental role of technology in process optimization but also its ability to adapt to the continuously evolving demands of the tourism market.

In the report we present, several aspects of digital project trends have been analyzed, offering a deeper understanding of the sector's evolution in this field. Observing the details, it is clear that there is a marked trend of evolution in digitalization projects in the tourism sector. 

Understanding the Geographic Impact

It is important to observe in which regions these transformations are taking place. The data indicates that the Spanish domestic market, which comprises 22.45% of the projects, shows strong growth in technology adoption. At the same time, the Balearic Islands are the epicenter of digitalization, concentrating 38% of the initiatives, while the Canary Islands (12.76%), the Valencian Community (9.69%), and Andalusia (7.65%) have shown a notable increase compared to previous years, highlighting adaptability to local needs and their ability to penetrate new markets.

In this first semester, the Valencian Community stands out positively, where 7,700 new rooms have been digitalized, which not only contributes to operational efficiency but also ensures regulatory compliance, which is essential for improving the customer experience.

Geographic distribution within the national market 2024

Keys to Process Optimization

The analysis of the implemented projects reveals that 55% of digitalization efforts focus on critical operational processes, such as maintenance and housekeeping. This focus is not accidental; the quality of the customer experience largely depends on efficiency in these areas. For example, the housekeeping service has professionalized over 16,000 rooms, which not only optimizes operations but also benefits more than 1,000 employees, showing a commitment to the workforce.

Attention to compliance (25%) and health & safety (18%) are other key areas addressed during this period. Projects related to legionella prevention, the HACCP system, and pool control are examples of a concern to ensure the safety and well-being of guests, reflecting the growing concern for health in the tourism sector.

Innovation and Sustainability: A Necessary Synergy

One of the most significant trends observed is the increase in sustainability projects, which has grown an astonishing 119%. This trend not only represents a positive evolution in business behavior but also underscores the growing importance of adopting sustainable practices in the hotel industry. Although these projects currently represent a small percentage compared to others, their increasing implementation signals a paradigm shift.

Nature of projects H1 2024

Global Expansion in Emerging Markets

Although the projects developed within the national scope stand out, there is a high growth in digitalization outside the national market, highlighting emerging markets such as Mexico and Brazil, where the digitalization of 11,386 rooms stands out.

Conclusion

Overall, the first half of 2024 has shown remarkable progress in the digital transformation of the tourism sector, evidenced by the significant implementation of technologies in hotel operations. 

The Spanish market, especially the Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, Valencian Community, and Andalusia, has been key in this evolution. Digitalization has focused on optimizing critical operational processes and regulatory compliance, reflecting a strong orientation towards improving the customer experience. Additionally, the notable rise in sustainability projects and expansion into emerging markets underline a trend towards more responsible practices and greater global penetration in the sector's digitalization.

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