Hunter Conference: Focus on Innovation in Hospitality Technology

The 2024 Hunter Hotel Conference presented the industry with an eclectic mix of topics to discuss spanning from hospitality tech to brand expansion. The 35th year of the Hunter Conference coined the hashtag #KnowNoLimits, which encapsulated the unique mix of presenters, attendees and solutions providers well.  

Attendees were welcomed with invigorating sessions about a myriad of challenges and opportunities currently affecting hospitality. Cassie Kozyrkov from Google spoke of the impact of AI on hospitality and travel; Rachel Humphrey, Founder Women in Hospitality Leadership Alliance, spoke on the presence and importance of women in future generations of hospitality leadership; and other organizational leaders spoke on the implications of the economy on the hotel industry.  

On day two, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian highlighted how employee engagement and customer success initiatives propel their position as a premier industry leader, driving overall profitability. Bastian emphasized Delta's commitment to cultivating a highly engaged workforce and prioritizing exceptional customer service, attributing their success to a crucial connection between employee satisfaction, customer loyalty, and financial performance.  

An unforgettable moment on the second day of the conference was the crowning of Bob Hunter, Founder of Hunter Hotel Advisors & Hunter Conference, as the recipient for the 2024 Hunter Conference Award for Excellence and Inspiration.  

In another noteworthy presentation titled, "Legacy in Hospitality: Navigating Tradition + Innovation,” Anthony Capuano, President & CEO of Marriott International, engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue with interviewer Mitch Patel, President and CEO of Vision Hospitality Group. The session delved into the intricate balance between honoring industry tradition and embracing innovation within the evolving landscape of hospitality. Capuano shared insights into Marriott International's approach to blending legacy practices with cutting-edge technologies and modern trends, offering valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of the industry's past, present and future. 

For more coverage from Hunter: 

• In HOTELS: Expectations high for hotel deal flow picking up in latter half of year 
• In Lodging Magazine: HUNTER Conference kicks off with market report and forecast 
• In Hotel Management: Hunter panel weighs pros, cons of branding 

The 2024 Hunter Hotel Conference illuminated the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry, offering a platform for meaningful dialogue and strategic insights. From discussions on the impact of AI to the celebration of industry legacy, the conference underscored the industry's resilience and capacity for innovation.  

Did you miss Otelier at the Hunter Hotel Conference this year? No worries – we will be at AAHOACON 2024 next week. Book a meeting with us to get your formal introduction to the new Otelier.