NEW YORK—From artificial intelligence to multi-location F&B concepts to deep-dive research into the minds of hotel guests, the education sessions have been announced for HX: The Hotel Experience, which will be held Nov. 12-13 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center here.
“We strive to make the overall content of HX second to none. And this year, we are particularly excited with HX’s conference component,” said Phil Robinson, VP/group show director of event producer Hospitality Media Group (HMG).
This year’s HX trade show promises to focus on the latest technology affecting hotels, new and interesting F&B concepts and a deep dive into the minds of hotel guests.
Sessions are presented on three stages located on the HX exhibit floor. Three headliner sessions for HX 2017 are:
Sunday, Nov. 12, 3:00-3:45 p.m.
Siri, Alexa, Cortana and Rosie. Oh My! AI on the Rise! Trending Tech Talk: AI + Robotics in the Hospitality Industry. The constant innovations to the industry driven by tech are astounding. Moderator Valerie Ferguson, director, experience planning and integration, hotels & resorts, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, explores the impact of robotics and the coming wave of artificial intelligence. The panel features Micah Green, president and CEO, Maidbot, and Steve Ransone, VP of rooms operations, White Lodging. They will walk through how robots are already deeply rooted in hotels overseas, and analyze how this innovation will enhance the guest experience in North America.
Sunday, Nov. 12. 4:15-5:00 p.m.
Creating One-of-a-Kind Multi-Concept Operations: Yes it Can Be Done. Alex Taylor, SVP, restaurants & bars, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, looks at a more human element of the guest experience and asks, “How do you maintain the feel of an independent boutique when your operation grows to multiple locations?” The presentation explores how Kimpton has made it work in the hotel restaurant space. The key is allowing freedom and creativity to thrive inside the company culture.
Monday, Nov. 13, 1:00-1:30 p.m.
Understanding the Minds of Your Guests. Knowing how guests respond to your offering is more than just intuitive. Chris Davidson, EVP of global strategy, MMGY Global, explores the data and trends from MMGY’s 2017/2018 “Portrait of American Travelers.” Davidson will cover hot topics such as the impact of shared accommodations in micro-hotels and the increase or decrease of travel agents in relevance to guests.
To view the full event agenda, go to thehotelexperience.com.
HX gives a 360-degree view of hospitality
NEW YORK—In addition to the panels and sessions, HX: The Hotel Experience will also offer its all new HX360° Innovation Zones. These are three full build-outs, featuring innovations in Lobby & Bar, Food & Beverage and Spa & Wellness. These experiential areas are created by top designers to give attendees a true look and feel of the latest and greatest in key hospitality centers.
HX360° Lobby & Bar
Creating the perfect guest experience often begins in the lobby. Attendees will be able to see and feel the difference an outstanding first impression can make, be it music and sound, an inviting seating area or the art on the wall. And when guests want to enjoy themselves at the bar, they’ll get a true sense of their experience with the latest trends and innovations that can define this fun and exciting area—from the integration of personal tech to updates of old standards like barware and barstools.
HX360° Food & Beverage
All the innovative enhancements that drive successful F&B outlets will be on full display—from digital ordering systems to visually interesting dessert displays. Explore hot trends in lighting and food prep, as well as the latest tech innovations in this key area.
HX360° Spa & Wellness
To surpass the idea of lodging being a “home away from home,” see what’s coming next in helping guests indulge. Attendees can learn what guests expect from in-room exercise equipment to hot yoga sessions in the gym. Educate yourself on aromatherapy and trends in massage and facials, like home-grown herbs and locally produced oils, as well as experience the difference that massage table ergonomics can make.
