Produced by the international nonprofit association, Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), attendees experienced a world-class show exhibit hall showcasing the latest hospitality technology solutions from 325+ companies, an education lineup focused on the impact of technology in the industry, and a wealth of networking opportunities with other industry professionals, executive decision-makers and investors from over 60 countries.
HITEC’s opening headliner presentation was Dr. Bryan K. Williams, former global corporate director of training and organizational effectiveness for the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. In his session, Williams gave 10 proven tips to help attendees take control and transcend obstacles in their professional and personal lives.
The next morning’s headliner session by industry media personalities Anthony Melchiorri and Glenn Haussman explored how to break down technological silos between disparate groups of industry stakeholders and leverage technology-powered profitability. This session also welcomed two new inductees to the 2024 International Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame: Floor Bleeker, CTO at Accor Group and Terence Ronson, founder of Pertlink Ltd.
The third day of HITEC celebrated the innovative business concepts of eight ambitious hospitality technology startups who competed in the ever-popular Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) pitch competition, exclusively sponsored by Hospitality Net. After delivering their pitches, the woman-founded H2O Connected ultimately won the People’s Choice Award by popular vote among attendees for its smart device, water management solution, while Folio received the Judges’ Choice Award for its modern, effortless procurement software built for hotel operators.
Planning for HITEC Indianapolis 2025 is already well underway, which will take place June 16-19 in Indianapolis, Ind.