Exploring the Future of Technology and Innovation at Hub Intech Tenerife

The Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey in Tenerife is currently hosting the Hub Intech event, which commenced yesterday and will continue throughout the day. This gathering, organized by the Cabildo of Tenerife, focuses on significant themes related to technology and innovation, attracting a diverse audience that includes entrepreneurs, investors, universities, businesses, and emerging talents dedicated to shaping the future of the Canary Islands.

Innovative Discussions on Tourism Technology

Among the various sessions at Hub Intech, the DIARIO DE AVISOS Foundation facilitated a forum that delved into pressing issues regarding the technological evolution of tourism. A round table discussion aimed to uncover insights into the future of technology within the tourism sector, highlighting the intersection of innovation and hospitality.

As technology continues to advance, the idea of a hotel reception staffed by robots is becoming increasingly plausible. This concept, once relegated to the realm of science fiction, is now on the verge of becoming a reality. Olga Martín Pascual, Managing Director of the Tenerife Scientific and Technological Park (PCTT), emphasized the tourism sector’s eagerness to innovate and explore new methodologies. She stated, “There is a desire in this sector to innovate, improve, and explore new formulas.”

Victoria López, President of GF Hotels, highlighted the critical role of technology in tourism, noting that it constitutes 95% of modern life. She pointed out that connectivity is vital for attracting future visitors, particularly the younger generation. In her hotels, artificial intelligence is already being utilized to minimize food waste by customizing menus based on guest profiles, achieving a reduction in buffet waste by 35% to 40%. This innovative approach not only enhances sustainability but also aligns with the growing demand for responsible tourism practices.

Isidoro Fernández, CEO of Bumerania, a robotics firm, shared his perspective on the future of accommodations, asserting that technological advancements will significantly enhance guest experiences. He illustrated this by mentioning that guests could receive assistance in multiple languages upon check-in. However, he also cautioned against fully automated hotels, referencing a failed experiment in Japan that operated without human staff. This example serves as a reminder that while technology can enhance efficiency, the human element remains essential in the hospitality industry.

During the discussions, participants unanimously agreed that technology should serve to complement human roles rather than replace them. Victoria López reiterated this sentiment, stating, “Tourists come to receive what technology cannot offer. That smile, that warmth, that welcome and companionship cannot be provided by technology.” She expressed confidence that robotics and AI would not entirely supplant human jobs, emphasizing the importance of the human touch in hospitality. This perspective reflects a broader understanding that technology should enhance, rather than detract from, the guest experience.

Adapting to the New Tourist Landscape

The transformation of tourism is closely linked to the evolving profiles of visitors to the Canary Islands. Olga Martín Pascual noted that today’s tourists are more informed, necessitating a shift in how services are tailored to meet their expectations. This shift requires a deeper understanding of the modern traveler, who often seeks personalized experiences that resonate with their individual preferences.

Orlando Santana, CEO of Coco Solutions, a digital agency based in the Canary Islands, spoke about the need for hyper-specialization in the tourism sector. He stressed the importance of understanding visitor needs more comprehensively, suggesting that the initial phase of this transformation should focus on aligning customer preferences with available services. Santana criticized current search engines for being too simplistic and emphasized the need for more sophisticated tools to connect travelers with their desired experiences. He argued that a more nuanced approach to search and discovery could significantly enhance the overall travel experience.

As the discussions progressed, it became clear that the future of tourism in the Canary Islands hinges on the ability to adapt to these changing dynamics. Stakeholders are recognizing the importance of leveraging technology not just for operational efficiency, but also for creating memorable experiences that resonate with a diverse range of travelers. The integration of advanced technologies, such as AI and data analytics, can provide valuable insights into customer behavior, allowing businesses to tailor their offerings more effectively.

Moreover, the emphasis on sustainability and responsible tourism is becoming increasingly prominent. As visitors become more conscious of their environmental impact, the tourism sector must respond by adopting practices that prioritize sustainability. This includes not only reducing waste through innovative solutions but also promoting local culture and heritage, ensuring that tourism benefits the community as a whole.

Key Points

• The Hub Intech event in Tenerife focuses on technology and innovation in tourism.
• Robotic hotel receptions are becoming a reality, with industry leaders advocating for innovation.
• AI is being utilized in hotels to reduce food waste and enhance guest experiences.
• Participants agree that technology should complement human roles in hospitality.
• Today’s tourists are more informed, necessitating tailored services and hyper-specialization.
• There is a growing emphasis on sustainability and responsible tourism practices.