The emergence of trends in the hospitality industry and their effect on hoteliers

Abstract

The Tourism Industry is one of the largest industries worldwide as it provides various job opportunities and it is a fast growing economic sector. Tourism trends left a huge impact on this industry especially during the past twenty-five years. As the title suggests, tourism trends that were developed and are still developing in the Hospitality Industry affected hoteliers in various ways. These trends will continue to develop in the future; however, hoteliers should follow these trends in order to remain competitors in the market.

The main aim of this dissertation is to find out which the main trends are and how these trends are affecting hoteliers of both four and five star hotels. This research also focuses on the actions that were taken by hoteliers in order to follow these trends and keep their customers‟ satisfaction at the highest level.

For the purpose of this research, seven semi-structured interviews were carried out; six hoteliers of both four and five star hotels were interviewed together with the CEO of Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA).

From the outcome of these interviews, the main trends that are bringing the change in the hospitality industry were identified and the measures that were taken by hoteliers to follow these trends were established as well. It was pointed out that technology and the introduction of low cost airlines are the two main trends that are bringing this change and other trends were also identified. Hoteliers of both four and five star hotels are working very hard to keep their products and services in line with these trends.