The future of jobs in the hospitality industry

The hospitality industry has undergone significant changes, not only due to technological advancements but also because of external factors. The impact of the pandemic, combined with the challenges of an energy crisis, staff shortages, and inflation, has left a lasting mark on the hospitality sector. These events have influenced how hospitality businesses operate and have led to an increased focus on automation. This has resulted in changes to some jobs and has also created new opportunities.

Digitization in the hospitality industry

In light of the recent pandemic, digitization, a part of automation, has become even more crucial for the hospitality industry. This not only aids in implementing hygiene and safety measures, such as the use of QR codes, but also improves overall efficiency and customer experience.

Which jobs in the hospitality industry may be largely automated?

Porter, Concierge, and Security: Modern technologies such as facial recognition and automated access systems are transforming security in the hospitality industry. Facial recognition can identify guests and grant access, reducing the need for traditional doormen and security personnel. These systems can also help manage guest preferences and offer personalized services, which was previously a task of the concierge.

Marketing: Digital marketing tools use advanced data analysis to understand customer behaviour and adjust marketing strategies accordingly. This may mean marketing staff focus more on analysing data and devising creative campaigns, rather than routine marketing tasks.

Revenue Management: Advanced software for pricing strategy and market analysis enables hospitality businesses to dynamically adjust their prices based on demand and supply, events, and other market factors. This changes the role of revenue managers, who will focus more on strategy and analysis rather than daily price adjustments.

Receptionist: With self-check-in systems via apps and digital kiosks, guests can check in quickly and efficiently without interacting with a receptionist. This could shift the receptionist's role towards more guest-focused tasks and addressing specific guest requests.

Waiter: Self-service technologies such as ordering kiosks and apps reduce the need for traditional waiters. Guests can place their own orders and pay. This changes the role of waiters, who can concentrate more on guest experience and service quality.

Chef: In some kitchens, automated systems and robots can assist with routine tasks such as chopping vegetables or preparing standard dishes. This gives chefs more time to focus on creative and complex dishes.

Administrative Jobs and Purchasing Agent: Software for inventory management and automated purchasing systems can streamline the management of inventories and the purchasing of goods. This could reduce the need for traditional administrative and purchasing roles, as many of these tasks can now be automated.

Stewarding: Automated dishwashing systems can not only be more efficient, but also provide more consistent results than manual washing. This can significantly reduce the need for stewarding staff.

Housekeeping: Robotic vacuums and other automated cleaning tools can take over simple cleaning tasks such as vacuuming and mopping. This means housekeeping staff can focus on tasks that require more attention and care, such as making beds and detailed cleaning.

What are the benefits of automation?

Automation can offer many benefits for the hospitality industry:

Efficiency: Less time spent on routine tasks means more time for guest service and other important tasks.

Accuracy: Automation reduces human errors in orders, accounting, and inventory management.

Cost Saving: In the long term, automation can save costs on labour and increase efficiency.

More Data: Automation provides opportunities for collecting and analysing more data, leading to better business insights and decision-making.

Reduced Workload: The hospitality industry has been facing labour shortages for years. Automation can help address this issue.

What are the drawbacks of automation?

While automation brings several benefits, there are also drawbacks:Loss of Employment: One of the most discussed disadvantages is the potential loss of jobs.

High initial Costs: Implementing automation technology can require significant initial investments. This can be a challenge for smaller businesses or those in a financially vulnerable position.

Dependency on technology: Excessive dependence on technology can be problematic in case of system failures or technical issues.

Fear: Automation can lead to fear among hospitality staff about job loss or changes in their role. Some employees may worry that their jobs will be taken over by automated systems or robots.

The future of jobs in the hospitality industry is heavily influenced by technological advancements. While some traditional jobs may change or even disappear, new opportunities are also emerging. The key is to remain flexible and open to new skills and roles in this rapidly changing sector.