Hotelbeds predicts rise of frictionless travel as consumer expectations rise

The bed bank said it expects to see 30% growth in 2023 as trips become ‘hassle-free’

Hotelbeds expects growth of 30% above this year’s levels over the next 12 months as travellers seek ways to make their trips easier and hassle-free.

Rising inflation is not putting people off taking trips as ‘revenge travel’ following pandemic lockdowns will continue to gain momentum next year, the bed bank’s analysis suggests. 

As people prioritise travel, they are are taking advantage of hybrid and remote working to and combine business with pleasure, according to the company’s predicted trends for 2023.

Other elements set to influence travel decisions next year include the rise of sustainable options, a rise in fintech options to handle the rebooking of disrupted flights and an increasing shift towards digitalisation in the hotel sector through services like mobile room keys and remote check-in and -out.

Hotelbeds chief executive Nicolas Huss said: “As we lead increasingly busy lives, we no longer have time to book each element of our travel separately. 

“We, as consumers, are also very frustrated with the friction that we encounter. The standards for the consumer experience will keep on rising. 

“That’s why frictionless travel will revolutionise the industry and Hotelbeds is taking steps towards this with our one-stop-shop vision. 

“It helps our clients provide everything their customers need while also simplifying the process so travellers can spend less time addressing issues and more time enjoying their trip. 

“This evolution can be directed in different ways but there is the opportunity to develop a community solution which can positively impact the travel ecosystem. 

“It can also be more sustainable in the long-term, which is why we’re expanding it across our business and encouraging our clients to join us.”