Welcome to the EHL Insights Report: Hospitality Outlook 2025! Let us dive into the world of our beloved industry and take an expert look at five key trends shaping the future of hospitality. Based on comprehensive research and expertise from EHL faculty members and the school’s extensive network of industry leaders, it offers a thoughtful perspective on where the industry is heading in the coming years. Through key insights and analysis, it aims to inspire innovation, emphasize human-centricity and collaboration, and enhance our industry by equipping hospitality professionals with a clear understanding of emerging trends, opportunities, and challenges.

     

    The Five Trends for 2025 and the coming years:

    The Heart of Hospitality: Fostering Human Connection in the Age of AI

    Revolutionizing Hospitality Branding: The Era of Personalization and Cross-Fertilization with Luxury Brands
    New Working Models: A Blueprint for Professional Well-Being through Modernization and Talent Management

    Rejuvenating and Transformative Experiences: The Rise of Well-Being Journeys in the Post-Pandemic Era

    A 360-Degree Approach to Sustainability: Thinking and Acting Eco-Friendly from A to Z

    Facts & Figures about the hospitality industry

    $4.70

    trillion

    The global hospitality market grew from $4.39 trillion to $4.70 trillion in 2023, with a 7% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) (Source: Hospitality Global Market Report 2023)

    5.8%

    estimated annual market growth

    Future projections estimate the market will grow by 5.8% annually until 2032, surpassing global GDP growth (Source: Hospitality Global Market Report 2023)

    $5,816.66

    billion by 2027

    The projected growth of the global hospitality market is set to soar to $5,816.66 billion by 2027, with a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% (Source: Hospitality Global Market Report 2023)

    330

    million employees worldwide

    The hospitality sector employs approximately 330 million people worldwide (Source: WTTC)

    126

    million new jobs to be created

    By 2032, 126 million new jobs are expected to be created (Source: WTTC)

    2.5

    seconds

    A new position in hospitality becomes available every 2.5 seconds (Source: Unilever)

    9%

    of the total workforce worldwide

    The travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors employ about 9.1% of the total global workforce (Source: WTTC)

    $8.6

    trillion

    Around $8.6 trillion was spent in traveler outlays in 2024, representing roughly 9% of this year’s global GDP (Source: McKinsey)

    Trends-1-v2-1

    The Heart of Hospitality: Fostering Human Connection in the Age of AI

    As AI transforms the world, it is set to contribute an astounding $15 trillion to the global economy by 2030. In hospitality, AI can simplify routine tasks, allowing staff to focus on the heart of the industry: meaningful human connections. Rather than replacing workers, AI is a tool to enhance human-centric experiences. “This is the future and higher purpose of hospitality: its people-centric focus, emphasizing the pivotal role of social connections and human interaction,” says EHL Professor Dr. Meng-Mei Maggie Chen.

    At the core of this evolution lies the concept of "Hospitality Vibes"—the emotional energy radiated by people and spaces—which highlights the growing importance of social connection, belonging, and community. Now is the time for hospitality leaders to blend AI innovation with human centricity, creating experiences that leave a lasting impression.

    Discover how AI and human centricity are shaping the future of hospitality.

    Trend-2-1

    Revolutionizing Hospitality Branding: The Era of Personalization and Cross-Fertilization with Luxury Brands

    In a crowded market, personalization has emerged as a powerful tool for hotels and hospitality institutions to differentiate themselves and enhance the experience of their guests. Through AI-driven insights and customized service, hotels can anticipate guests’ unique needs and create more personalized and tailored services and experiences. “Luxury brands are masters at creating extraordinary value through branding, so collaborations between hotels and luxury brands are mutually beneficial," says EHL Professor Dr. Florent Girardin. With a growing focus on luxury partnerships and experiential branding, hotels are discovering new ways to engage guests and foster brand loyalty.

    Find out how this trend is reshaping the hospitality landscape.

    Trend-3

    New Working Models: A Blueprint for Professional Well-Being through Modernization and Talent Management

    In the face of talent shortages and digital transformation, modern work models and AI-driven talent management are redefining professional well-being in hospitality. By optimizing recruitment and fostering continuous skill development, these tools allow employees to grow while enhancing productivity and engagement. “It’s essential to foster working models where transparency, network-based collaboration, and community approaches thrive daily,” says EHL Professor Dr. Stefano Borzillo.

    Through a balanced blend of technology and human connection, hospitality organizations can build resilient, supportive environments that meet the needs of today’s workforce.

    Find out more about these new working models.

    Trend-4-1

    Rejuvenating and Transformative Experiences: The Rise of Well-Being Journeys in the Post-Pandemic Era

    With the impacts of modern life and post-pandemic challenges, wellbeing journeys have become a central focus in hospitality, transforming travel into a means of personal renewal and growth. Today, many seek travel that provides a profound mental and physical reset, sparking new meaning and self-connection. “Vacations and travel create opportunities for individuals to engage with many elements that contribute to a meaningful life,” says EHL Professor Dr. Valentina Clergue.

    As travelers pursue authentic, immersive experiences, the hospitality sector is responding with a diverse array of wellness-centered retreats, from digital detoxes to personalized health coaching.

    Discover more about the growing importance of well-being experiences.

    Trend-5-1

    A 360-Degree Approach to Sustainability: Thinking and Acting Eco-Friendly from A to Z

    Sustainability in hospitality has evolved into a comprehensive approach that extends beyond environmental responsibility, addressing also employee well-being, community involvement, and resource management. Today’s eco-conscious travelers, particularly Gen Z, expect hotels and service providers to align with sustainable values and provide transparency in their practices. “Consumers are willing to pay a premium, not just for a more luxurious experience, but to make educated, eco-conscious decisions,” says EHL Professor Dr. Carlos Martin-Rios. The industry is starting to respond by fostering eco-friendly behaviors and creating immersive guest experiences that prioritize sustainability from every angle.

    Discover how the hospitality industry is transforming to create a more sustainable future.