Experts throw light on latest trends in hospitality industry at conclave

Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, Manipal, organised ‘Hospitality Conclave -Vision 2017’ at Dr TMA Pai Hall here.

The different aspects of ‘Rethinking the Hospitality Arena for Tomorrow’ were deliberated upon by speakers drawn from diverse areas of the industry. The students were given a wide perspective of what was in store for them after graduating from WGSHA.

Principal Prof G Parvadhavardhini inaugurated the programme. Neha Garg, founder director, Red Kite consulting Pvt Ltd, Delhi, gave an insight about the latest in hiring trends in the hospitality industry. She advised the students to give preference to a brand over location.

Garg told the girls to work in different sectors of the industry rather than choosing traditional departments. Sahil Ranaut, complex director, revenue management, The Westin (Marriott Hotels), Pune, emphasised on the growth of MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) segment as a tool to increase revenue by combing both business and pleasure tourism together.

Maverik Mukherji, general Manager, Accor Hotels, Bengaluru, spoke on the technological revolution in the industry which include paperless check-ins, robot waiters, web valet, data visualisation, 3D food printing, quantum levitation and facial recognition systems.

Balakrishna Jayasimha, trainer, speaker and rebirthing breath work and yoga coach, highlighted the significance of wellness and work-life balance and also explained the prevailing impact of emotional quotient, hurry sickness and power stress in today’s life.

Sunil Tarneja, general manager, Maharajas’ Express, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), New Delhi, elaborated on various factors affecting service excellence and gaining enhanced ratings and reviews to ensure customer retention.

Tarneja spoke on the importance of local culture for providing customised service apart from anchor, reveal and encourage (ARE) approach to improve the quality of service delivered to the guest.

Vidya Patwardhan, coordinator of the conclave delivered the vote of thanks which was followed by an enthralling cultural performance by students.