HTNG Connect: Europe 2024

• Caroline Hobson, Partner, Cooley, LLP

Join us for an insightful presentation where we will explore the evolving landscape of algorithmic pricing in the hotel sector. This session will delve into the potential regulatory actions being considered across interest in the US, UK, and EU, examining the implications for hotel operators and technology providers. Caroline Hobson, partner with Cooley LLP, will provide an overview of current regulatory trends, highlighting which practices are of interest to regulators. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly regulated environment.

• Bryan Hammer, VP of IT, Belmond

Discover how cutting-edge technologies from the luxury retail sector can transform the hotel industry. This presentation will explore innovative solutions such as personalised guest experiences through AI, immersive virtual and augmented reality applications, seamless mobile payment systems, and advanced data analytics for customer insights. Learn how these technologies can enhance guest satisfaction, streamline operations, and create a bespoke experience in your hotel. Join us to stay ahead in the competitive landscape by integrating luxury retail innovations into your hospitality services.

• Mike Carlo, CEO, XanderPay

After listening to this morning's general session panel on payments, join your colleagues in a round-table format to brainstorm on how to fix the challenges and transform the guest booking and stay experience on payments.

Join us for an insightful panel discussion as industry experts delve into the complexities of operating a cashless hotel, with a special focus on tipping practices. In an era where cashless transactions are becoming increasingly prevalent, hoteliers face unique challenges and opportunities in ensuring seamless guest experiences while addressing tipping norms. Our panelists will explore strategies for navigating these challenges, maintaining guest satisfaction, and maximizing opportunities for staff gratuities in a cashless environment.

It wasn't long ago when technologies didn't have to worry about climate control, boilers, and other systems that engineers managed. Times have changed because these systems have become highly automated and integrated with other systems. This session will introduce you to the latest tools and systems that make managing hotels easier and more efficient. Learn about smart devices like connected thermostats, energy-saving solutions, and guest service apps that simplify tasks for staff and create a more comfortable stay for guests. Industry experts will explain these innovations in simple terms, share real-world examples, and discuss what the future holds for hotel technology. This session is perfect for anyone new to these advanced systems!

• Lawrence Edwards, Director of IT Project & Portfolio Management, Belmond

Join us as we highlight Belmond's cutting-edge approach to enhancing Food and Beverage (F&B) profitability in the luxury hotel sector. Through the seamless integration of IT, Commercial, Finance, and Operations, Belmond has harnessed advanced insights to dramatically increase F&B revenue. They are at the forefront of advocating for 'technology parity' in F&B data, a game-changing concept traditionally applied only to room and in-house guest services. Their innovative strategies not only challenge outdated perceptions, but also position F&B as a highly profitable and immersive aspect of business, achieving a balanced profit while delivering 100% brand impact.

• Sandy Angel, Senior Director of Technology & Information, AHLA
• Bryan Hammer, VP of IT, Belmond

• Tristan Gadsby, CEO, Alliants (Moderator)
• Sanjay Sharma, CTO, Orascom Hotels Management

• Bartholomäus Regenhardt, Associate, Cooley, LLP

Explore the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence regulations in the EU and UK and their implications for the hotel industry. This presentation will provide an overview of current regulations, potential future developments, and practical guidance on compliance in relation to AI. Attendees will gain insights into how these regulations impact AI applications in hotel operations, from guest services to data management, ensuring both legal adherence and competitive advantage.

• Pascal Burg, Director, Edgar, Dunn & Company (Moderator)
• Sjoerd Brouwer, Director, Transformation Management Office, Operations, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
• Mike Carlo, CEO, XanderPay
• Manika Singh, Head of Product, Payments, Planet
• Riko van Santen, CIO, Kempinski Hotels

Join us for a dynamic panel discussion featuring top hotel technology executives as we unravel the challenges hindering hotels from achieving Uber-like payment simplicity. Dive into the complexities of modernizing payment processes, exploring technological hurdles, operational barriers, and the crucial role of data security. Gain actionable insights and strategies to revolutionize payment systems in the hospitality industry. Don't miss this opportunity to drive innovation and enhance the guest experience.

• Joshua Ryan-Saha, Director, Traveltech for Scotland (Moderator)
• Mark Campbell, CIO, The Dorchester Collection
• Sanjay Sharma, CTO, Orascom Hotels Management