Featuring: Jack Bowcott (Goki), Patrick van der Wardt (The Hotel IT Guy), Rolf Arndt (Fairmas Services), Zen Valli (RMS Cloud)

As hotels face rising operational pressures and tighter margins, automation is rapidly shifting from a "nice to have" to an essential driver of profitability. At FHS World 2025, industry leaders unpacked how AI, automation, and integrated systems are reshaping financial planning, guest access, and property management, helping hotel teams work smarter, not harder.

Automation is redefining operational efficiency

Rolf Arndt highlighted how automated budgeting, forecasting, and reporting tools integrate data from multiple systems and standardize it into a single version of the truth. This structure enables better forecasting, fewer errors, and more confident decision-making.

Smart access unlocks efficiency and revenue

Jack Bowcott underscored the impact of contactless, keyless guest access. It streamlines arrival, reduces operational friction, cuts waste, and opens up new opportunities for timely and relevant upsells.
Zen Valli added that automated PMS workflows reduce staff pressure and support faster, cleaner operational execution.

The personal touch remains essential

Panelists emphasized that automation should strengthen hospitality, not replace human connection. Technology can remove repetitive tasks so staff can focus on meaningful guest interactions.

Key Takeaways

1. Automation enhances accuracy and protects margins
Integrated, standardized data leads to better forecasting and stronger financial performance.

2. Smart access elevates efficiency and creates new revenue paths
Contactless experiences streamline operations and unlock targeted revenue opportunities.

3. Technology should empower hospitality, not replace it
Automation frees teams to deliver meaningful and memorable service.

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