The Robots Are Already Here: Shaping the Hotel of the Future
What once sounded like science fiction—robotic servers, AI-powered concierges, and smart rooms—is now part of an emerging reality in hospitality. While not yet universal, these technologies are steadily becoming mainstream, from keyless room entry to voice-activated guest services. But the transformation of the hotel experience isn’t just about tech. The future of hospitality in France and beyond is being reshaped by shifting guest expectations, evolving demographics, and new competitive pressures.
The French hotel industry is undergoing a dynamic technology reboot, with a strong focus on enhancing guest experiences and streamlining operations. Key trends include the adoption of smart hotel rooms, seamless mobile check-in/check-out, and AI-powered customer service solutions—all aimed at meeting the demands of today’s tech-savvy travelers. To dive deeper into these innovations, World BI proudly returns with the 2026 chapter of Digital Transformation in Hotel Technology, taking place in Nice, France and explore the future of hospitality and the technologies redefining the guest journey.
How France’s Hotels Are Rethinking Design and Space:
- Design as a strategic tool
- Reimagining space usage:
- Breaking traditional design codes
- Hotels are moving away from outdated styles.
- Emphasis on modern, vibrant, and emotionally engaging settings.
- Quote from Gwenola Donet (JLL France)
- Refurbishing key areas
- Reception spaces, guest rooms, and communal areas are being redesigned.
- Design tailored to the preferences and needs of target guests.
French hotels are leveraging design not just for aesthetics, but to attract and retain modern guests.
There’s a shift in how hotels use their physical space—enhancing both functionality and guest interaction.
“The idea is to break with established design codes, to deconstruct old styles and reconstruct them in a modern way to create vibrant settings and enhance the atmosphere.”
- Focus on personalization
- Blending style and culture
Hotels are using design to signal their ability to deliver customized, micro-level guest experiences.
Many properties are fusing modern aesthetics with local identity to create authentic, memorable environments.
Focused Luxury and Budget Both:
Rising expectations across all hotel segments
It's not just luxury hotels rethinking the guest experience—mid-range and budget hotels are also feeling the pressure to innovate.
Budget-conscious guests, premium expectations
Today’s travelers may have lower budgets, but they still seek style, comfort, and technology.
Smart spatial redesign
- Many hotels are reducing bedroom size to save costs.
- In turn, they’re expanding and enhancing communal areas—creating inviting, design-forward spaces that encourage social interaction and boost F&B revenue.
Growth of design-focused budget brands
- Mama Shelter:
- Motel One:
Offers open-plan living and working areas paired with stylish bedrooms; recently expanded to Toulouse.
Known for individually-designed rooms, now catering to budget travelers in Paris.
Competitive momentum
The arrival of new, design-conscious hotel brands at the affordable end of the French market is driving intense competition and raising the bar for experience, even at lower price points.
The Satista France Hotels:
France Hotel Market Growth
- Projected revenue of US$11.21 billion by 2025
- Expected CAGR of 2.74% (2025–2029)
- Market volume projected to reach US$12.49 billion by 2029
User Growth & Engagement
- Estimated 29.90 million users in the hotel market by 2029
- User penetration to rise from 42.1% in 2025 to 45.7% by 2029
- Average revenue per user (ARPU): Expected to reach US$409.62
Digital Transformation
- 83% of total revenue in France's hotel market expected to be generated via online sales by 2029
Global Market Insight
- United States projected to lead globally with US$115 billion in hotel revenue in 2025
Luxury Hotel Segment in France
- Continues to flourish with iconic properties like Ritz Paris and Hôtel de Crillon leading the way
Big Hotel Chains Take Note:
- Rise of ultra-modern hotels:
- The growing popularity of design-led, tech-forward hotels is pushing major global hotel chains to reassess their positioning in the French market.
- Strategic response from major players:
- Many are launching new lifestyle brands to remain relevant and appeal to changing customer expectations.
- Hilton’s move into lifestyle hospitality:
- Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero: Opened mid-2020, reflecting local art, culture, and cuisine.
- Canopy by Hilton Bordeaux Chartrons: Opened in early 2021, with a community- and experience-driven design.
- Rebranding to connect with younger audiences:
- Many large hotel chains suffer from a dated image among millennial and Gen Z travelers.
- Launching fresh, modern brands provides an opportunity to revitalize their identity and engage new demographics.
As the French hotel market evolves, no brand can afford to stand still. Agility, innovation, and guest experience are becoming essential to remain competitive.
What Next? A check for 2030 - Centered on Convenience and Customization:
More focused on;
- Highly personalized guest experiences
- Sustainable travel choices
- Attractive opportunities for hotel staff
- Convenience-driven, tech-enabled hospitality
Caroline Tufft:
- The future hotel experience will eliminate all guest pain points.
- No check-in lines, no fixed check-in times—guests will enjoy full flexibility from arrival to departure.
Vik Krishnan:
- Hotels will recognize guests on arrival, knowing their purpose of visit.
- Rooms will be automatically assigned via smartphone, eliminating the need for front desk interaction.
Matteo Pacca:
- Hospitality currently underutilizes guest data beyond marketing.
Steve Saxon:
- Travel growth will come from developing markets, where English may not be the default language.
- Hotels must offer AI-powered translation apps or multilingual mobile platforms to ensure smooth communication and inclusive experiences.
Digital Transformation in Hotel Technology:
Digital Transformation in Hotel Technology is a high-profile B2B conference that explores the latest trends shaping the future of hospitality. Key topics include the adoption of smart hotel rooms, seamless mobile check-in/check-out, and AI-powered customer service solutions—all designed to meet the evolving expectations of today’s tech-savvy travelers. To gain deeper insights into these innovations and connect with industry leaders, visit World BI for more details.