Hoteliers see demographics as key to travel’s future

The expansion of the middle class is expected to drive mid-market travel, while younger generations and domestic travel trends are on the rise

A growing middle class, an aging population and a global shift to the East are among the most influential trends in the hotel industry, according to insights from top executives at IHG, Accor, Hilton and Marriott.

Key takeaways

• Chris Nassetta, CEO, Hilton: Emphasized that adapting to changing demographics could drive a new wave of growth, noting, "We're going to have over five billion people in the middle class by 2030. The growth of the middle class is huge."
• Anthony Capuano, Marriott CEO: Emphasized that the focus on the middle class is data-driven, supported by extensive consumer spending data collected through Marriott's branded credit cards.
• Sebastien Bazin, Accor Chairman and CEO: Suggested that luxury hotels should enter destinations later in their development, while the real business is in economy and midscale properties that align with local demographics.

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