The effect of technological innovations and digitalisation on the competitiveness of hospitality industry enterprises

Abstract

Subject. With an increasingly competitive hotel market, it is vital to provide high quality services to increase the number of guests and ensure competitiveness. An essential component of the quality of services at a modern hotel is the digital environment, which is used both for management purposes and to offer the guests digital services.Objectives. The purpose of our study was to analyse the digital systems and technologies used by leading international and Russian hotels and assess their effect on their competitiveness.Methods. In our study we performed a comprehensive case study and analysed statistical data, regulatory documents, articles, and websites concerning the digital transformation of the hospitality industry and the introduction of innovative tools by hotels. We also performed a survey of frequent Russian and international travellers.Results. In our study, we analysed the challenges and development trends of the hospitality industry. We determined the most promising innovations based on digital technologies that are used in the hospitality industry, both in Russia and all over the world. As a result of the survey, we found out that the quality and range of services are important factors when choosing a hotel. With the current turbulence on the market and stricter requirements to comply with, the introduction of digital solutions is of great importance for ensuring the competitiveness of hotel businesses.Conclusions. Digital transformation, the introduction of knowledge-based management systems, and marketing strategies taking into account the absolute digitalisation of society can help hotels to increase their competitiveness, to optimise their number of employees, and to ensure the stable development of the industry as a whole.