AI & tech integration set to reshape hotels by 2026, says report
IDeaS has released its annual hospitality technology report, outlining predictions for the hotel and resort sector in 2026 and identifying key trends that may shape the industry.
Industry shifts
The report, titled 'Future Forecast: Hospitality Tech Predictions for 2026', is based on data collected from hoteliers and technology partners. It addresses increasing complexity within the hospitality industry and highlights areas such as technology simplification, unified commercial strategies and organisational resilience as essential factors for future growth.
The findings suggest that, while many hotels are integrating new technologies, there is considerable work to be done in creating more cohesive technology systems.
Only 54 percent of hoteliers surveyed reported using mostly integrated digital tools, underscoring a continued challenge related to fragmented technology stacks across the industry.
AI and workforce transformation
Artificial intelligence is expected to play a significant role in transforming hotel operations by 2026.
According to the report, 89 percent of hoteliers plan to implement new AI-driven applications, aiming to support everything from guest communication-such as chatbots and mobile check-in systems-to decision support for everyday management functions. This trend signals the emergence of the so-called 'augmented hotelier' who benefits from intelligent technologies in their daily duties.
Hospitality is at a pivotal moment, where technology, AI, and unified strategies can unlock entirely new ways of operating. This isn't about replacing people. It's about empowering them to simplify complexity, innovate faster, and deliver exceptional experiences that drive both profitability and sustainability. At IDeaS, we're committed to helping hoteliers turn disruption into opportunity.
Unified commercial strategies
Another area identified as critical is the integration of commercial teams across sales, marketing and revenue management.
The report states that future-ready hotels will benefit from using a shared system of data-a 'single source of truth'-to enhance decision making, sharpen segmentation, optimise distribution channels and improve their responsiveness to changes in the market.
This integration is expected to help hotels adapt more efficiently to business demands and changing guest expectations while improving their commercial performance and competitiveness in a dynamic environment.
Sustainability as practical strategy
Sustainability continues to be listed as a priority across the sector, but the report observes a gap between intention and practical application.
It notes that many hotels still deprioritise sustainability when faced with operational or financial pressures. The roadmap provided outlines methods to integrate sustainability with overall profitability, suggesting a move towards eco-efficiency by leveraging forecasting, resource optimisation and adaptable operating models.
Workforce resilience
The report highlights the importance of workforce stability, pointing to increased investments in automation, upskilling and cross-training as key measures for maintaining operational resilience.
These approaches are designed to support employee growth while helping employers attract and retain talent in a competitive employment market.
Hotel and technology leaders, including Clément Dénarié of Oaky, Katie Moro of Amadeus Hospitality, Mercedes Minghelli of TrustYou and Werner Meyer of Busyrooms, contributed industry perspectives for the report, providing additional viewpoints on adaptation and future-readiness within hospitality companies.
'Future Forecast: Hospitality Tech Predictions for 2026' serves as a reference for hospitality businesses looking to manage change, adopt new technologies, address sustainability and enhance workforce capabilities.
The report states that the adoption of these strategies can enable organisations to improve guest experiences and strengthen commercial outcomes in a complex, competitive sector.
