22nd Annual International Hotel Technology Forum 2025 (IHTF)

The ultimate forum for hoteliers across Europe and beyond to discover the latest advancements in hotel technology that will drive seamless experiences, boost revenue and increase operational efficiency.

18 - 20

March

2025
  • Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort
  • Complimentary
  • Why attend?
  • Agenda
  • Speakers
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  • Event Gallery
  • Sponsors
  • Media Centre
  • Awards
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Why attend?

WHAT TO EXPECT FOR 2025?

 

 

400+

Attendees to meet each year

30+

Exhibitors to meet each year

80%

Attendees at Director+ level

400+

Attendees to meet each year

30+

Exhibitors to meet each year

80%

Attendees at Director+ level

IHTF Europe 2024

Agenda

  • 16 Apr 2024
  • 17 Apr 2024
  • 18 Apr 2024
Expand All

Streams

Stream one

Stream A

Stream two

Stream B

12 PM

Lunch & Networking Break

Stream B: Elevating Guest Experiences: Setting the Tone of the Stay From the First Click

Chaired by Ryan Haynes, Director, Haynes MarComs

Speakers

Ryan Haynes
Director, Haynes MarComs

1 PM

Chair’s Opening remarks

Speakers

Ryan Haynes
Director, Haynes MarComs

1:15 PM

Overcoming Barriers for Marketing Visibility

  • Achieving organic SEO results in a paid world
  • How will AI further impact search results?
  • Customer Data Platforms vs alternative database solutions
  • Building a strong digital presence with smaller budgets
  • Introduction of EU regulations for search results transparency
  • Multi-channel mastery: Stay ahead of the competition with marketing and meta search strategies

1:45 PM

Available for Sponsor: Click into the Future with Technology Driving Marketing & Website Innovation

  • Marketing hurdles facing hoteliers
  • Technology supporting marketing innovation and engagement
  • From venue tours to reality: Upgrading online experiences through VR and AR
  • Maintaining luxury with online presence
  • AI-generation leaving its mark in visuals and texts creation
  • Preparing for LCMS and CMS integration

2:15 PM

It All Starts at Reservation: Entering the Age of AI with Hotel Bookings

  • Easily integrable tools making reservations a dream
  • Introducing tailored automation for all guest touchpoints
  • Social media becoming the new front desk with AI technology and sky-high conversion rates
  • Unifying reservation platforms onto one PMS
  • Adapting booking page payment options to today’s consumer buying habits
  • AI Channel Manager tools for live booking rate formulations that capture more bookings

2:45 PM

Reserved for Blastness: Boosting Direct Bookings through Digital Marketing

TBC

3:15 PM

Afternoon Refreshments, Networking & Prize draw

3:45 PM

Business Meeting 1

4:20 PM

Business Meeting 2

4:55 PM

Business Meeting 3

5:30 PM

Available for Sponsor: Another Stamp for Loyalty: Continuing Membership Scheme Innovation

  • On the hunt for new: Looking at unique loyalty member offerings
  • Using data to assess the right fit for your hotel guests
  • Aligning amenities and services with your brand
  • Presenting for a digital age: Attractive and convenient digital tools

6 PM

Interactive Panel Discussion: How Can Hoteliers Regain Control Over Guest Reservations?

Submit your approaches via SLIDO for expert panellists to discuss

  • Best practices for boosting direct bookings
  • Enhanced offerings driving guest loyalty and higher rebooking
  • Rethinking rewards: Stay top of mind by diversifying and enhancing member benefits
  • Minimising search detours with built-in price comparison tools
  • Beat the rate race: Combat pricing pressures from OTAs and comparison sites

 

Speakers

Ryan Haynes
Director, Haynes MarComs

MAPPING THE GUEST JOURNEY THROUGH TECHNOLOGY

9:15 AM

CHECK IN: All-included breakfast, Networking Introduction and Exhibition Opening

10:15 AM

Chair’s Opening Remarks: The Guest Journey in Hospitality: Revolutionising Every Touchpoint

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

10:30 AM

Opening Keynote: Unpacking Emerging Market Trends

  • A world tour of shifting demands
  • Fascinating and effective hotel practices on the rise Where are we seeing the most investment?
  • The shooting 5 star: Growth hotspots in the luxury market How generational shifts are shaping hotel trends
  • Turning overcrowding concerns into new expansion opportunities

PART 1 OF THE GUEST JOURNEY: PRE-STAY

11 AM

Demo: All in One App: Pre-arrival Guest Communications

  • Introduce your hotel and resort offerings to guests’ itineraries before they arrive
  • Showcasing your brand’s best across all locations
  • Opening the doors to upselling pre-arrival with push notifications
  • The first step to personalised content for every guest
  • Try for yourself: App testing

11:30 AM

Reserved for Six Star Global: Minimising Technostress when Selecting Systems

  • Finding one-fits-all solutions across your properties
  • Choosing flexible technology for prospective and retrospective intregration
  • Review like a pro: Easy-to-use tools for evaluating system proposals and internal approvals
  • Sit back and relax with training support from service providers

12 PM

Lunch & Networking Break

STREAM A: Staff Operations: Preparing for Guest Arrivals

Chaired by Nicholas Wyatt, Head of R&A Travel and Tourism, GlobalData

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

1 PM

Chair’s Opening remarks

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

1:15 PM

Design-Driven Destinations: How Portugal’s Hotels are Paving the Way for Time Capsules and Tech Marvels

  • Invisible Innovations: Repurposing traditional architectural features with tech integration to serve the modern traveller
  • Retrofitting to preserve timeless heritage and embrace the future of sustainable tourism
  • Blending modernist aesthetics with historic charm through sustainable sourcing
  • From Ruins to Riches: Disruptive tech-savvy transformations driving bookings with unforgettable guest experiences

1:45 PM

Reserved for Threatspike Labs: The Dark Side of Online Bookings

  • Dealing with info-stealers and phishing in the hospitality industry
  • Raising awareness amongst customer facing employees
  • Social engineering threats

2:15 PM

Panel Discussion: The Role of OTAs in Revenue Management

  • OTA perspectives on future trends shaping the hotel industry
  • Sharing insights for competitive pricing, consumer behaviours, and travel service integration
  • Embracing social media and other distribution platforms for travel and tourism
  • Plan ahead: Preparing for travel agent M&A activity
  • Assessing current CRS and Channel Manager applications for working with partners
  • The next steps OTA-hotelier collaboration

Speakers

Fernando Vives
Chief Commercial Officer, Minor Hotels Europe & Americas
Haijing Li
Market Director - Southern Europe, Trip.com
Ted Horner
Owner E Horner & Associates

2:45 PM

Reserved for Everguest: How AI is Helping Shift Revenue Management into a Modern Market

  • A tool to understand and adapt to the demands of younger generations
  • Working in collaboration with CRM databases for better guest information
  • Cutting time spent on manual forecasting and budgeting
  • Integrated AI in existing systems for automated pricing strategies

3:15 PM

Afternoon Refreshments, Networking & Prize draw

3:45 PM

Business meeting 1

4:20 PM

Business meeting 2

4:55 PM

Business meeting 3

5:30 PM

Reserved for Apaleo: Building a Digital End-to-End Guest Journey

  • A seamless guest-centric approach
  • Reducing reception admin tasks
  • Empowering your staff to offer a hyper-personalised service

6 PM

Interactive Tech Solution Debate: Revenue Beyond the Room: Revolutionising Revenue Management with Data-Driven Personalisation

  • The key to using guest data to drive reservation volume with competitive offerings
  • Calculating revenue per guest for increased monetising opportunities and effective inventory planning
  • Measuring performance on the whole guest experience
  • Maximising revenue with attribute-based pricing and tailored upgrades from behavioural insights
  • Harnessing AI software for Business Intelligence and hyper- personalisation

Speakers

Markus Mueller
Managing Director, GauVendi

6:30 PM

CHECK OUT: Six Star Global Networking Drinks in the Exhibition Hall

7:30 PM

Networking Dinner

Streams

Stream one

Stream A

Stream two

Stream B

8:45 AM

Chairs opening remarks

Speakers

Ryan Haynes
Director, Haynes MarComs

Stream B: Elevating Guest Experiences: Streamlining Guest Touchpoints for Hassle-Free Check Ins

Chaired by Ryan Haynes, Director, Haynes MarComs

Speakers

Ryan Haynes
Director, Haynes MarComs

9 AM

Opening Keynote: SPOTLIGHT: Taking Off with Travel Innovation

  • First-class inspiration: Looking to digital innovations in the airline industry
  • Flying at the speed of new efficiencies in supporting industries
  • Meeting customer expectations across their travels with online check ins
  • A Bird’s-eye view on traveller behaviours and trends
  • Building strong hotelier-airline relationships

9:15 AM

SPOTLIGHT: Available for Sponsor: Unlocking Digital Door Solutions

  • Immediate access with in-app key cards
  • Assessing benefits and drawbacks of apple and google wallets
  • QR code door locks: A no-fuss option?
  • Evaluating ROI risks

9:30 AM

Skip the Queue: Digitalising the Check-in Process

  • Investing in customer satisfaction with seamless online check- ins
  • Automated guest services relieving pressures on front desk staff
  • Prioritising fewer, higher quality staff interactions
  • Empowering staff to work with technology that enhances, not overrides existing roles
  • Is check-out ready to go digital?

10 AM

Reserved for Canary Technologies: Demo: Adapting to a Phone- Centred, Contactless Culture without Alienating Less Tech-Facing Clientele

  • Digitalising guest touch points for seamless operations
  • WhatsApp and AI concierges offering personalised room service and resort information
  • In-house apps for reserving and paying across hotel facilities
  • Catering to preferences for face-to-face assistance
  • Finding systems compatible across all your hotel’s platforms
  • Balancing automation with luxury
  • Ask me anything: Test a real chat bot

10:30 AM

Fireside Chat: Banking on the Future: Seamless and Secure Payment Solutions for Hotels

  • Standardising payment touch points throughout the guest’s stay
  • Utilising blockchain technology for smart contracts and secure payments
  • Token of the future: Is tokenisation becoming a must-have tool?
  • Equipping your hotel for cloud-based payment systems
  • Potential for PICDSS and industry certifications as a solution for hoteliers?
  • Preparing for new e-billing and invoicing requirements with system solutions

Speakers

James Lemon
Global Industry Lead - Travel & Leisure, Automotive, Transport, Stripe

11 AM

Reserved for Ruckus: Smarter WiFi for Guest Satisfaction

  • Personalised bandwidth allocation to ensure performance for every guest
  • Healthchecks for your network – improving operational efficiency
  • Analytics and metrics
  • Brand compliance

11:30 AM

Morning Refreshments & Networking Break

11:50 AM

Business Meeting 4

12:25 PM

Business Meeting 5

1 PM

Business Meeting 6

1:30 PM

Lunch & Networking Break

2:30 PM

Panel Discussion: Elevating the Guest Experience with Advancements for Smart In-Room Tech

  • Room for improvement: Why in-room upgrades are crucial as more guests stay in
  • Exceeding expectations guest with top-tier technology: Voice activated controls, Gen-AI and in-room tablets
  • Offering tangible perks with in-room entertainment and controls
  • Balancing automation with luxury

 

Speakers

Tiago Alves
Director of IT Operations, Belmond
Nuno Miranda
Director of Operations, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts
Ryan Haynes
Director, Haynes MarComs

3 PM

Available for Sponsor: Putting the Control in your Guest’s Hands

  • Allowing centralised controls to enable guests to tailor their environment
  • Ruling out unnecessary costs and energy usage
  • Internet of Things (IoT) Integration: Smart mirrors, lighting, temperature and blinds
  • Providing accessible solutions with voice commands and smart phone controls

3:50 PM

Afternoon Refreshments & Networking

4:10 PM

Business meeting 7

4:45 PM

Business meeting 8

5:20 PM

Business meeting 9

Stream B: Elevating Guest Experiences: Going Above and Beyond with Purpose-Driven Offerings

Chaired by Ryan Haynes, Director, Haynes MarComs

Speakers

Ryan Haynes
Director, Haynes MarComs

6 PM

Closing Keynote – Fireside Chat: ESG Technology Combatting Waste, Driving Efficiency and Supporting Communities

  • Guest-facing green tech enhancing sustainability practices
  • Culture shifts building a barrier to wasteful practices
  • Automated systems for energy and water management
  • Waste management technology making a difference in the hotel industry
  • Eco upgrades: Smart swaps for high energy efficiency
  • Platforms aiding local sourcing, donations and economic support for hotels and their communities

Speakers

Renée Nicole Wagner
PhD, Corporate Director ESG & Quality Management, Orascom Hotels Management
Nuno Miranda
Director of Operations, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts

8 AM

CHECK IN: All-included breakfast, Networking and Exhibition Opening

PART 2 OF THE GUEST JOURNEY: FIRST IMPRESSIONS COUNT – ARRIVALS

Stream A: Staff Operations: Ensuring a Smooth Onboarding Process

Chaired by Nicholas Wyatt, Head of R&A Travel and Tourism, GlobalData

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

8:45 AM

Chairs opening remarks

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

9 AM

Opening Keynote: SPOTLIGHT: One guest, One Profile: Merging Databases for Cohesive Experiences

  • Differentiate clients with a single guest profile across all business units
  • Drive personalised resort recommendations and revenue based on past spending, interests and characteristics
  • PMS migration a gateway to further web booking enhancements

9:15 AM

SPOTLIGHT: Available for Sponsor: PMS Takeover: Replacing PMS Systems with a Single Interface as a Central System

9:30 AM

A Smooth Flight to Standardising Processes in Hotel Chains

  • Identifying new tools needed for automating staff processes
  • Achieving standardisation across all major global systems with a single cloud-based solution
  • Incorporating “champion” representatives across properties during project development
  • Uplifting team attitudes towards new systems
  • Leveraging system data for the best outcomes across properties

Speakers

Tiago Alves
Director of IT Operations, Belmond

10 AM

Tailor-made Solutions for your Hotel Experiences

  • Increase ROI with proper management of all processes
  • Improve guest experiences
  • Integrating a long-term PMS solution Leading the way for expansion

Speakers

Carsten Wernet
CEO, SIHOT Group

10:30 AM

Fireside Chat: Laying Out your AI Strategy Roadmap

  • Kickstart your AI Journey: Setting off on the right foot with the AI Governance Framework
  • Navigating data regulation compliance
  • The key to AI decision-making: Weighing up the pros and cons of ESG innovation
  • Preparing for emerging cyber security threats across hotels & supply chains

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData
Carolina Pinto
Analyst at GlobalData

11 AM

Reserved for LIKE MAGIC AG: Work Like Magic: Setting Off on the Right Foot with Seamless Staff Operations

  • Upgrade your staff communications
  • Integratable hospitality tools for all hotel systems
  • Seamless digital experiences for upscaling with reliable solutions

11:30 AM

Morning Refreshments & Networking Break

11:50 AM

Business meeting 4

12:25 PM

Business meeting 5

1 PM

Business meeting 6

1:30 PM

Lunch & Networking Break

PART 3 OF THE GUEST JOURNEY: 5-STAR SERVICE – DURING THE GUESTS’ STAY

Stream A: Staff Operations: Enhancing Processes for Higher Efficiency and Profits

Chaired by Nicholas Wyatt, Head of R&A Travel and Tourism, GlobalData

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

2:30 PM

Panel Discussion: Bridging the Innovation Gap: Advancing Hotel Adoption of Tech Solutions

  • First step to the future: PMS, CRM and cloud-based updates as a foundation for new innovations
  • Navigating system landscapes for capacity, budget, and legal and regulatory requirements in global markets
  • Using a central PMS to handle operational demands across your property
  • Preparing for secure data transfers during a system transition

Speakers

Mustafa Gokcen
Head of Information Technology, Cheval Collection
Frank Wagner
Director -International Sales, Advanced Computer Technology
Ted Horner
Owner E Horner & Associates

3 PM

Reserved for iOL Pay: Slashing Overheads With Simplified Global Transactions

  • Integrations supporting a wide range of payment methods and local currencies
  • Simplify transactions, accelerate savings, and enhance revenue
  • Fintech solutions making bank at hotels
  • Enabling fast-paced operations and streamlined workflows with a hassle-free payment platform

3:30 PM

Start-Up Stars: Showcasing Innovation Making Its Way to the Rooftop

Hear ten x 90-second pitches from the independents and boutique hotels sharing upcoming ideas and never-seen-before innovations

3:50 PM

Afternoon Refreshments & Networking

4:10 PM

Business meeting 7

4:45 PM

Business meeting 8

5:20 PM

Business meeting 9

6 PM

Closing Keynote – Case Study: Robotics Combatting Hotelier Staffing Challenges

  • Robo-ready service: Managing mundane tasks for smaller F&B, leisure and maintenance teams
  • Improve staff retention by supporting existing roles
  • Tech talk: Communicating the benefits to staff for smooth implementation
  • Partnering with suppliers to meet your hotel’s unique requirements

Speakers

Gerald Scheurmann Kettner
CIO, Event Hotels & Dito Hotel Management
Dennis Dehring
Member of the Executive Board, Giobotics

6:30 PM

CHECK OUT: Six Star Global Networking Drinks in the Exhibition Hall

Networking Dinner

Streams

Stream one

Stream A

Stream two

Stream B

Stream B: Elevating Guest Experiences: Resort, Lifestyle and Tourism in Focus

Chaired by Ryan Haynes, Director, Haynes MarComs

Speakers

Ryan Haynes
Director, Haynes MarComs

9:30 AM

Roundtables Discussions (2x 30-minute discussions):

  1. Creating Luxury with High-end Tech in Spa, Health & Wellness 
  2. Partnering with Third-party Sites for Day Trips, Activities and Events 
  3. Strong Offerings: What Guests Truly Value in Hotel Gyms, Activities and Sports Centres 
  4. Cruise Ship Perspectives on Travel Trends and Collaboration with Hoteliers 
  5. Short-term Property Rentals Expansion: A Viable Option for Hoteliers? 
  6. Menu Makeover: Innovations in Sustainable Supply Chains for F&B 
  7. Enhancing In-House and Local Perks for Loyalty Members

10:50 AM

Business meeting 10

11:25 AM

Business meeting 11

12 PM

Business meeting 12

8 AM

CHECK IN: All-included breakfast, Networking and Exhibition Opening

PART 4 OF THE GUEST JOURNEY: VENTURING OUT – THE RESORT & BEYOND

8:45 AM

Chair’s Opening Remarks

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

9 AM

Opening Keynote: Landing on the FYP: Encapsulating Resort Experiences on Social Media

  • Gaining clicks on hotel amenities and events appealing to younger generations’ trending interests
  • Key to a shopping spree: Luxury Brand Collaborations as an extension to your hotel offerings
  • Booking influencers and celebrity to showcase all your resort has to offer
  • Exclusive access: Creating must-attend clubs, events and activities for loyalty members

Stream A: Staff Operations: Supporting Expansion and Development of Resort Offerings

Chaired by Nicholas Wyatt, Head of R&A Travel and Tourism, GlobalData

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

9:30 AM

Available for Sponsorship: Unlocking Commercial Opportunities with AI

  • Fast track to sales efficiency with AI-driven automation and digital tools
  • Elevating lead filtration for optimal prioritisation
  • Cutting manual tasks with AI for smart contracts, proposals and quotations
  • Booking brilliance: Achieve higher conversation rates and handling of group requests

10 AM

Panel Discussion: Practical AI Applications and Implementation to Supercharge your Hotel

  • Hype or help? Finding real value for your business amidst the AI buzz
  • Identifying the necessary applications or interfaces for AI integration
  • Journey to the cloud: How AI solutions rely on robust data centres
  • Addressing energy demands of AI databases in line with sustainability goals

Speakers

Ted Horner
Owner E Horner & Associates

10:30 AM

Morning Refreshments & Networking Break

10:50 AM

Business meeting 10

11:25 AM

Business meeting 11

12 PM

Business meeting 12

PART 5 OF THE GUEST JOURNEY: ON THE HORIZON – LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

12:35 PM

Panel Discussion: Hotelier Roles Moving with the Times or Becoming a Thing of the Past?

  • Tech takeover? Concerns of traditional roles being replaced by digital technology
  • Endless opportunities for enhancing guest and staff experiences
  • Supporting, not replacing: Reducing workloads for existing staff
  • Tech enabling profit-driven and efficient task allocation
  • Foreseeing functionality errors and needs for manual input
  • New goals, new roles: The introduction of job roles to support advancing technology strategies

 

Speakers

Renée Nicole Wagner
PhD, Corporate Director ESG & Quality Management, Orascom Hotels Management
Paulo Mesquita
COO, Dom Pedro Lisboa
Ted Horner
Owner E Horner & Associates

1:05 PM

Green is the New Gold: An Industry Push for Sustainability Accreditation

  • How OTAs and booking partners are introducing sustainability requirements
  • Using data platforms and tools to evidence ESG certifications
  • Communicating ESG values to guests while avoiding green-washing claims
  • Net-zero targets to be enforced by industry bodies

1:25 PM

SPOTLIGHT: Available for Sponsor: Planning Ahead for Upcoming Excursions in the Hotel Industry

  • Prediction tools for insights into the next big trends
  • Enabling data-driven strategies for your team projects
  • Being confident in making investments for the future of your hotel and guests

1:40 PM

Closing Keynote: Panel Discussion: Global Perspectives on the Next Generation of Hotel Technology

  • Tech or flop? Is tech-adoption the determining factor for hotel success?
  • Acknowledging lagging demand for guest-facing tech in certain markets
  • Justifying investments in overseas hotels
  • Launching purpose-driven technology that serves your guests and aligns with your brand
  • Consistency is key: Aiming for consistent guest experiences, system implementation and staff processes
  • What is the next wave of hotel technology?

 

Speakers

Paulo Mesquita
COO, Dom Pedro Lisboa
Ted Horner
Owner E Horner & Associates

2:10 PM

Lunch & Networking

3:10 PM

CHECK OUT: Close of Conference

Speakers

Select a speaker to learn more

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Fernando Vives
Chief Commercial Officer, Minor Hotels Europe & Americas

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: The Role of OTAs in Revenue Management

2025-03-18, 2:15 PM

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Renée Nicole Wagner
PhD, Corporate Director ESG & Quality Management, Orascom Hotels Management

Renée Nicole Wagner, PhD. completed her broad education at the MODUL hotel and tourism school in Vienna and her studies at the University of Vienna with a doctorate in political science. Various postgraduate studies on the topic of "Economics and sustainability in tourism" as well as specialized trainings around the topic of ESG have always accompanied her in here entire career.

Renée is an ESG expert with passion, coming from the international hospitality field. Currently working for Orascom Hotels Management - one of the biggest hotel owners and operators in the MENA region, with more than 8,000 guestrooms dispersed across Egypt, Oman the UAE,  Montenegro and Switzerland.

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Hotelier Roles Moving with the Times or Becoming a Thing of the Past?

2025-03-20, 12:35 PM

Session Details:

Closing Keynote – Fireside Chat: ESG Technology Combatting Waste, Driving Efficiency and Supporting Communities

2025-03-19, 6:00 PM

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Nuno Miranda
Director of Operations, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts

Passionate Hotelier, Goal Oriented Leader, Luxury Experience Specialist.

Dedicated and innovative hotelier, I am passionate about delivering unparalleled luxury experiences to guests. My career has defined my steadfast commitment to excellence, focus on guest satisfaction and development of high - performing teams.

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Elevating the Guest Experience with Advancements for Smart In-Room Tech

2025-03-19, 2:30 PM

Session Details:

Closing Keynote – Fireside Chat: ESG Technology Combatting Waste, Driving Efficiency and Supporting Communities

2025-03-19, 6:00 PM

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Gerald Scheurmann Kettner
CIO, Event Hotels & Dito Hotel Management

Session Details:

Closing Keynote – Case Study: Robotics Combatting Hotelier Staffing Challenges

2025-03-19, 6:00 PM

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Tiago Alves
Director of IT Operations, Belmond

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Elevating the Guest Experience with Advancements for Smart In-Room Tech

2025-03-19, 2:30 PM

Session Details:

A Smooth Flight to Standardising Processes in Hotel Chains

2025-03-19, 9:30 AM

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Paulo Mesquita
COO, Dom Pedro Lisboa

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Hotelier Roles Moving with the Times or Becoming a Thing of the Past?

2025-03-20, 12:35 PM

Session Details:

Closing Keynote: Panel Discussion: Global Perspectives on the Next Generation of Hotel Technology

2025-03-20, 1:40 PM

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Federico Holzmann Perez-Portabella
Global Head Real Estate Investment, Catalonia Hotels & Resorts
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Mustafa Gokcen
Head of Information Technology, Cheval Collection

Accomplished IT Leader with experience communicating IT strategies and goals to meet business demands. Highly motivated professional with over 15 years of experience in a variety of IT operational and leadership positions. Strong business acumen and technical knowledge with a strong background in managing teams across 100+ countries, and multi-million dollar budgets. Analytical and dedicated with the ability to deploy emerging technologies to optimize workflows and provide efficiencies. Proven success in shaping Global IT strategies and roadmaps. Leveraged excellent leadership skills to motivate teams to meet and exceed organizational objectives. Possess complementary strengths in designing and deploying key Infrastructure initiatives globally.

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Bridging the Innovation Gap: Advancing Hotel Adoption of Tech Solutions

2025-03-19, 2:30 PM

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Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

Nick has over 14 years of experience in the business intelligence industry with particular expertise in market sizing, competitive assessment, company strategy, and product management. He leads the development and content production of new and existing products within GlobalData’s Travel & Tourism business information division. He is responsible for ensuring the design, publication and delivery of market-leading content to a diverse client base in the travel & tourism sector including DMOs, airlines, hotels and consulting groups. He also supports sales and consulting teams by directly engaging with industry stakeholders to understand and fulfil their needs.

Session Details:

Chair’s Opening Remarks: The Guest Journey in Hospitality: Revolutionising Every Touchpoint

2025-03-18, 10:15 AM

Session Details:

STREAM A: Staff Operations: Preparing for Guest Arrivals

2025-03-18, 12:59 PM

Session Details:

Chair’s Opening remarks

2025-03-18, 1:00 PM

Session Details:

Chairs opening remarks

2025-03-19, 8:45 AM

Session Details:

Fireside Chat: Laying Out your AI Strategy Roadmap

2025-03-19, 10:30 AM

Session Details:

Chair’s Opening Remarks

2025-03-20, 8:45 AM

Session Details:

Stream A: Staff Operations: Supporting Expansion and Development of Resort Offerings

2025-03-20, 9:25 AM

Session Details:

Stream A: Staff Operations: Ensuring a Smooth Onboarding Process

2025-03-19, 8:45 AM

Session Details:

Stream A: Staff Operations: Enhancing Processes for Higher Efficiency and Profits

2025-03-19, 2:25 PM

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Haijing Li
Market Director - Southern Europe, Trip.com

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: The Role of OTAs in Revenue Management

2025-03-18, 2:15 PM

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Carolina Pinto
Analyst at GlobalData

Carolina Pinto is an Analyst in the Thematic Intelligence team specializing in how macro themes, including supply chain disruption, geopolitics, and sustainability, impact the tech sector. She also contributes to analyses on the adoption of AI, robotics, IoT, and other emerging technologies in the consumer goods and automotive sectors.​

Session Details:

Fireside Chat: Laying Out your AI Strategy Roadmap

2025-03-19, 10:30 AM

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Sergio Guerreiro
Senior Director, Turismo de Portugal & Member of Statistics Committee, UNWTO
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Dennis Dehring
Member of the Executive Board, Giobotics

Session Details:

Closing Keynote – Case Study: Robotics Combatting Hotelier Staffing Challenges

2025-03-19, 6:00 PM

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Alberto Corredera Gonzalez
IT Director, Room Mate Hospitality & Leisure S.L.U.
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Markus Mueller
Managing Director, GauVendi

Session Details:

Interactive Tech Solution Debate: Revenue Beyond the Room: Revolutionising Revenue Management with Data-Driven Personalisation

2025-03-18, 6:00 PM

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Carsten Wernet
CEO, SIHOT Group

Passionate about technology and dedicated to the hotel industry.

CEO and board member of SIHOT Group, owner of the SIHOT hotel management system, since 2019, having previously led the company as Support and General Manager since 2008. Also, Addipos director since November 2022.

He has led the company through its digital transformation, evolving its platform to meet the traveller’s technological expectations, improving the guest experience and bringing greater efficiency to hotel operations.

He has also been involved in its international expansion (for example, as Project Manager in Australia) and the development of new products (such as SIHOT.SAAS and SIHOT.CLOUD).

Session Details:

Tailor-made Solutions for your Hotel Experiences

2025-03-19, 10:00 AM

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Ted Horner
Owner E Horner & Associates

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Hotelier Roles Moving with the Times or Becoming a Thing of the Past?

2025-03-20, 12:35 PM

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Panel Discussion: Bridging the Innovation Gap: Advancing Hotel Adoption of Tech Solutions

2025-03-19, 2:30 PM

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Practical AI Applications and Implementation to Supercharge your Hotel

2025-03-20, 10:00 AM

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: The Role of OTAs in Revenue Management

2025-03-18, 2:15 PM

Session Details:

Closing Keynote: Panel Discussion: Global Perspectives on the Next Generation of Hotel Technology

2025-03-20, 1:40 PM

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Frank Wagner
Director -International Sales, Advanced Computer Technology

Frank is part of the hospitality IT world since the early days of Fidelio Software, where he initially joined in 1995. Since then, he held various managerial roles at Micros and Oracle Hospitality,  before joining ACT International as its Director International Sales for ACT’s Hospitality Group.

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Bridging the Innovation Gap: Advancing Hotel Adoption of Tech Solutions

2025-03-19, 2:30 PM

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Ryan Haynes
Director, Haynes MarComs

Ryan is a hotel technology marcomms consultant with over 15 years’ experience working with global systems and software in the sector. He is Managing Director of Haynes MarComs working with technology companies to bring clarity and opportunity for hotels in the journey of digitalisation. As host of Travel Market Life podcast, Ryan explores technology and digital developments to support industry buyers in procurement and market management. Hoteliers’ Voice series explore how hotels are addressing key developments within their tech stacks. Former broadcaster and PR consultant, Ryan supports businesses with engaging market engagement strategies to build profile and gain momentum. Ryan has worked with the likes of eRevMax, HomeAway, SIHOT, Pegasus, bd4travel, Sciant, Arvoia and Beonprice.

Session Details:

Stream B: Elevating Guest Experiences: Setting the Tone of the Stay From the First Click

2025-03-18, 12:59 PM

Session Details:

Chair’s Opening remarks

2025-03-18, 1:00 PM

Session Details:

Interactive Panel Discussion: How Can Hoteliers Regain Control Over Guest Reservations?

2025-03-18, 6:00 PM

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Chairs opening remarks

2025-03-19, 8:45 AM

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Elevating the Guest Experience with Advancements for Smart In-Room Tech

2025-03-19, 2:30 PM

Session Details:

Stream B: Elevating Guest Experiences: Resort, Lifestyle and Tourism in Focus

2025-03-20, 9:25 AM

Session Details:

Stream B: Elevating Guest Experiences: Streamlining Guest Touchpoints for Hassle-Free Check Ins

2025-03-19, 8:45 AM

Session Details:

Stream B: Elevating Guest Experiences: Going Above and Beyond with Purpose-Driven Offerings

2025-03-19, 5:59 PM

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James Lemon
Global Industry Lead - Travel & Leisure, Automotive, Transport, Stripe

Session Details:

Fireside Chat: Banking on the Future: Seamless and Secure Payment Solutions for Hotels

2025-03-19, 10:30 AM

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Plan Your Visit

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Tivoli Marina Vilamoura

Marina de Vilamoura, 8125-901 Faro, Portugal

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Awards

IHTF Europe 2025 Awards

 

Building on the success of the International Hotel Technology Awards Asia (view winners here), we are excited to announce the launch of the International Hotel Technology Awards Europe! This prestigious event celebrates hotels and technology providers that excel in leveraging innovative technology to enhance operations, marketing, and customer service.

Whether you represent a global hotel chain, an independent property, or a cutting-edge technology provider, this is your opportunity to highlight how your use of technology has transformed the guest experience and made a significant impact on the hospitality industry.

Winners will be revealed at the Awards Ceremony Gala Dinner, taking place on the evening of 19th March 2025 during the International Hotel Technology Forum in Portugal.

To enter read the entry criteria below, download the entry form, answer the questions and return before the Deadline 7th February.

Over the next few weeks we will be announcing the expert panel of judges who will decide the winners.

If you are intersted in sponsoring the event please contact herdipkaur@arena-international.com

For awards and entry information contact Awards manager Claire Budd; claire.budd.ctr@arena-international.com

Hotelier Awards

  • Digital Marketing Campaign of the Year

    This category aims to reward a hotel’s Digital Marketing Campaign over the last 12 months. Judges want to see campaigns that have increased engagement, traffic and revenue on digital platforms.

  • AI Adoption of the Year

    This category aims to reward the most productive and innovative application of AI technology within a hotel in the last 12 months. Judges will be looking for use cases that were ahead of the rest of the industry, to drive efficiency, enhance offerings, inspire creativity or improve processes across staff operations and guest experiences.

  • Resort Tech Innovation of the Year

    This category aims to reward hotels with technology implemented across its’ resort and amenities, including F&B and Spa, to enhance guest experiences, drive innovation and attract more reservations.

  • Loyalty Programme of the Year

    This category aims to reward a hotels’ guest loyalty program.  Judges want to see evidence of improved guest experience, innovation, increased bookings, cost effectiveness and valuable insights.

  • ESG Initiative of the Year

    This category aims to reward hotels who have implemented an Environmental, Social and Governance initiative in the last 12 months.  Judges want to see initiatives that significantly reduce and improve their impact through best-practices in sustainable operations, green technology, maintenance, services, logistics, products, and supplies.

Individual Awards

  • Next Gen Hotelier Award

    To be eligible for the Next Gen Hotelier award, the nominee should be a rising star from the younger generation of hoteliers, recently initiating positive change or a significant impact on the growth and innovation of their company. The major part of the change or impact should have occurred during the last year.  The winner of this award will be recognized for their exceptional contributions to the technological and innovative advancements, bringing their company into the new age of the hotel industry and fostering an environment for guests of the future.

  • CTO of the Year Award

    To be eligible for the CTO of the Year Award, the nominee should have recently initiated a positive change or made a significant impact on the growth and innovation of their company. The major part of the change or impact should have occurred during the last year.  The winner of this award will be recognized for their exceptional contributions to the technological and innovative advancements within their company, demonstrating leadership that drives success and fosters a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.

Hotelier and Vendor Awards

  • Hotel App of the Year

    This category aims to reward hotels and their technology partners who have implemented or significantly refurbished a guest app over the last 12 months. Judges want to see evidence of usability, overall quality, uniqueness in the market, innovation and user interface and design.

  • In-Room Guest Tech of the Year

    This category aims to reward hotels and technology partners for their guest-facing technology in guest rooms, for in-room controls, streaming services, retail services, keyless rooms, and contactless payment. Judges want to see evidence of usability, overall quality, uniqueness in the market, innovation and user interface and design.

  • Online Check-In & Concierge of the Year

    This category aims to reward hotels and technology partners for their digital solutions for guest check-ins and online concierges. Judges want to see evidence of usability, overall quality, uniqueness in the market, innovation in technology and efficiency, and user interface and design.

  • Integrated Staff Operations Tech of the Year

    This category aims to reward hotels and technology providers. Judges are looking for evidence of hotels utilizing digital services and technologies to drive their operations, enable seamless communication and collaboration between different departments within a hotel. Provide evidence of streamlining operations, increasing efficiency and productivity, and driving employee satisfaction.

Vendor Awards

  • Hoteliers’ Choice Award: Technology Provider of the Year

    To be eligible for the Technology Provider of the Year Award, the nominee should have recently initiated positive collaborations with hoteliers or made a significant impact on the growth and innovation of the hotel industry. The major part of the change or impact should have occurred during the last year.  The winner of this award will be recognized for their exceptional contributions to the technological and innovative advancements for hotels, demonstrating leadership that drives success and fosters a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.

Media Centre

Hotel Management Network

Enquiry

Contact Us

SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES

Herdip Kaur

Forum Director

+44 207866 9436

SPEAKING ENQUIRIES

Jessica Hartley

Head of Production

MARKETING ENQUIRIES

Madelayne Goodall

Marketing Manager

SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES

To enquire about sponsorship opportunities for the conference, please contact:

Herdip Kaur

Forum Director


+44 207866 9436

SPEAKING ENQUIRIES

To enquire about speaking opportunities for the conference, please contact:

Jessica Hartley

Head of Production