In hospitality, a positive guest experience today drives new business tomorrow. And to give customers a great one, hospitality businesses need modern offerings, efficient processes, and – at the root of it all – upgraded equipment with affordable payments.

Today, market and customer demands continue to evolve, and several equipment investments are currently trending with hospitality businesses, particularly for hotels and restaurants. These investments can enhance operational efficiency, improve guest experiences, and meet the evolving needs of the industry.

Here are the top 10 trends in hospitality equipment investments right now:

1. Energy-Efficient Kitchen Equipment: With a growing emphasis on sustainability and cost savings, hotels and restaurants are investing in energy-efficient kitchen equipment such as ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, and ventilation systems. Energy-efficient appliances not only reduce utility costs but also demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility.
2. Digital Ordering and POS Systems: In response to the market’s increasing desire for convenience, hospitality businesses continue to adopt digital ordering systems and point-of-sale (POS) technology. Investing in user-friendly POS systems, self-service kiosks, mobile ordering apps, and tableside tablets can streamline operations, enhance order accuracy, and improve guest satisfaction.
3. Smart Kitchen Appliances and IoT Devices: The integration of smart kitchen appliances and Internet of Things (IoT) devices is revolutionizing food preparation and service. From smart ovens and sous-vide cookers to inventory management systems and connected refrigeration units, these technologies offer real-time monitoring, automation, and predictive maintenance capabilities, leading to greater efficiency and productivity.
4. Contactless Payment Solutions: With an increased focus on health and safety, customers increasingly prefer contactless payment solutions. NFC-enabled payment terminals, mobile wallets, and QR code-based payment systems minimize physical contact during transactions, providing guests with a seamless and hygienic payment experience.
5. Food Safety and Sanitation Equipment: Maintaining high standards of food safety and sanitation is essential for hotels and restaurants to protect guest health and comply with regulations. Investments in commercial-grade dishwashers, sanitizing equipment, UV-C sterilization devices, and antimicrobial surfaces do more to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure a clean and hygienic environment.
6. Versatile Food Preparation Equipment: Flexibility and versatility are key considerations for food preparation equipment in hotels and restaurants. Multi-functional cooking appliances, modular kitchen layouts, and customizable workstation setups enable chefs to adapt to changing menus and accommodate diverse culinary preferences, enhancing operational efficiency and improving the guest experience.
7. Outdoor Dining Infrastructure: As outdoor dining continues to be popular among consumers, hotels and restaurants are investing in outdoor dining infrastructure and equipment. This includes weather-resistant furniture, patio heaters, retractable awnings, outdoor kitchens, and mobile food carts, allowing establishments to extend their dining spaces and capitalize on the popularity of al fresco dining.
8. Food Delivery and Takeout Equipment: The rise of food delivery services and takeout orders has prompted hotels and restaurants to invest in equipment tailored to off-premises dining. This includes insulated delivery bags, tamper-evident packaging, mobile food warmers, and dedicated pickup stations, enabling establishments to meet the growing demand for convenient and hygienic food delivery options.
9. Bar and Beverage Equipment: Bars and beverage options play a significant role in the overall guest experience at hotels and restaurants. Investments in high-quality bar equipment, beverage dispensing systems, cocktail-making tools, and premium glassware enhance the presentation and quality of beverages, driving customer satisfaction and repeat business.
10. Guest Room Technology: In the hospitality industry, guest room technology plays a crucial role in enhancing guest comfort, convenience, and connectivity. Hotels are investing in smart TVs, in-room tablets, voice-activated assistants, high-speed Wi-Fi networks, and IoT-enabled devices to provide guests with personalized experiences and seamless integration with hotel services.

Hospitality Equipment Is More Affordable With LEAF

In times like these, when rates, costs, and performance pressures are higher and many lenders are pulling back, affordable payments are critical. Payment options make it easier for hospitality businesses to get equipped with everything they need to stay competitive, enhance efficiency, and improve the guest experience, and vendors who offer these options can be the ones to help them do it.