The final session ‘Tomorrow is now, Seize the Power’, was an eyeopener to the current scenario and Speaking on what the future holds, he said, “The advent of Industry 4.0 has led into the emergence of a new concept of “Procurement 4.0” which gives procurement a significant opportunity to strengthen its strategic role in an organization.” Using several video clips he explained how hotels of the future may embrace technology in all its forms. He predicted that the future of housekeeping lies in Integrated Digital Solutions.
Notwithstanding one cannot undermine the need for human resource, he said, “While technology starts to play a significant role in the industry, there has to be a clear balance. And technology has to be an enabler, rather than creating a barrier between people. As we move along, there will be more and more elements which will require humans to participate actively.”
In the concluding session, Prabhat Shukla, Chairman of the Doha Housekeepers’ Group, made a presentation on “Until the Lion learns to write, every story will glorify the Hunter”, highlighting the need to educate and make the staff down the line informative and knowledgeable. The room attendant to command respect from the guest needs to know his product, i.e. the room, and the products in the room. Knowledge commands respect, he concluded.
Finally, a mention about Trishma Pinto, the emcee for IHS2018 who did an excellent job of steering the entire proceedings in a very delightful and excellent manner.
The Summit concluded on a positive note, with delegates – 150 from looking – discussing and sending suggestions of the topics that need to be addressed at IHS2019. The partners too found a lot of interaction time and business opportunities. We thank all the support extended by the partners and the associations in making IHS2018 a success.