Operations Competitive socialising gains ground in UK hospitality
Nearly 41% of UK consumers have engaged in a competitive socialising event, like bowling, mini golf, or pool, in the past quarter, according to CGA. This rapidly growing segment prioritises affordability (39%), location (33%) and atmosphere (29%) when selecting venues, with games-focused experiences taking precedence over food quality.
Consumer drink choices reveal a preference for soft drinks (38%), with lager (20%) as the leading alcoholic option. Price sensitivity is key, but 53% of consumers are willing to spend more on higher-quality drinks, and nearly half enjoy trying new options. This trend presents valuable opportunities for venues to cater to
diverse tastes and launch new brands in this dynamic, experience-driven segment. Source:
hospa.org
coordination of activities, and also overseeing various subgroups dedicated to awards, content creation and marketing qualifications. This strategic refinement will enable the HMA to work more cohesively, ensuring that hotel marketing remains an integral focus within hospitality and within HOSPA’s wider agenda. From elevating industry standards through to enhancing educational offerings for marketing professionals, the HMA’s streamlined structure promises to yield impactful results in the coming years.
HOSPACE 2024 This year’s HOSPACE, held, as ever, at the fantastic Royal Lancaster, London, was an unequivocal success. With record-breaking attendance and an excellent line-up of speakers, the conference addressed both the pressing challenges and the promising opportunities in our industry. As always, HOSPACE provided an invaluable platform for industry professionals to engage with key trends, from the integration of AI to new approaches in guest experience enhancement. This year’s agenda featured AI in hospitality, cybersecurity, financial management and automation, as well as discussions on creating supportive workplace cultures and sustainable operational models. A particular highlight was the
discussion offered up by our Leaders’ Panel, which provided some fascinating insights. The multiple sessions across the day fostered an environment where attendees could both learn and contribute, underscoring HOSPACE’s role as a cornerstone of industry education and collaboration. Our gala awards dinner, a cherished HOSPACE tradition, saw us honouring many exceptional figures through the Inspirational Leader awards. Celebrating the achievements of our industry’s best and brightest was a fitting close to an unforgettable day, and it was particularly heartening to see the growth in attendance as HOSPACE cements its reputation as a must-attend event for UK hospitality.
Looking ahead
Following a remarkable few months, I’m filled with pride for everything HOSPA has accomplished throughout autumn. Each event, from the Fellows gathering to HOSPACE, has exemplified our commitment to fostering innovation, connection and resilience within our industry. These achievements reinforce HOSPA’s vision of a collaborative, forward-thinking community that embraces both modern challenges and emerging opportunities with enthusiasm.
The path forward remains clear: to continue championing our members and elevating the hospitality industry as we step into the new year. By cultivating a stronger, more connected network of professionals, we look forward to making an even greater impact in 2025. Our dedication to education, sustainability and strategic growth will guide us as we face new challenges and celebrate further successes. In hospitality, as in life, change is constant. But as we’ve seen in 2024, with a community as committed and resilient as ours, the future is undeniably bright. ●
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Hotel Management International /
www.hmi-online.com Hotel Management International /
www.hmi-online.com
Maria Alam Sraboni/
Shutterstock.com
Maria Alam Sraboni/
Shutterstock.com
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