Managing Director of Labadi Beach Hotel, David Eduaful, has underscored the power of Big Data and Artificial intelligence (AI) as critical tools that prove to be hugely beneficial to the hospitality industry.
According to him, by capitalising on the characteristics of this innovation -collecting, analyzing, and reacting to data, hotels, and other hospitality businesses can develop smarter and more efficient marketing strategies that enhance the guest experience and drive loyalty.
Speaking at this year’s Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF), held in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, he emphasised that, AI has the potential to revolutionise the hospitality and tourism industry by improving efficiency and guest services. However, players must not overlook the importance of the human element.
“AI has the potential to revolutionise our industry by improving efficiency and guest services. However, we must not overlook the importance of the human element. While AI can enhance our operations, hospitality is fundamentally about people, and we must ensure that the human touch is preserved,” he reiterated.
He further highlighted that nowadays, data is gold, and in the hospitality industry, it’s simply priceless. Big data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have revolutionized the way we understand our customers’ behavior patterns and preferences. “If you’re still relying on the old-school methods, then you’re missing out on a ton of opportunities,” he added.
Discussing the topic of major hotel brands in Africa, Mr. Eduaful noted that while big brands contribute to technology transfer and business growth, they sometimes hinder local development by bringing in their top managers rather than training locals for leadership positions, hence the need to nurture local talents.
“To truly grow our industry, we need to invest in developing local talent. Globally, people are drawn to big brands and want to see them in their countries, which is beneficial. However, we must also focus on developing our African brands. I believe in growing the African brands,” he said.
The AHIF 2024 attracted hundreds of industry stakeholders from across the continent and beyond, not only to discuss the current state of the industry but also to shape its future. Present were both experts in the hospitality field and newcomers who were eager to connect, learn, and stay abreast of the ever-changing dynamics of hospitality operations.
Mr. Eduaful, who was participating in the event for the first time shared his impressions of the three-day event and his insights from various sessions.
For me, it is the right forum to bring together the best minds to generate valuable information for policymakers. “This can help create policies that will foster the growth of the hospitality business across the continent,” he added.
