FHA-HoReCa takes a deep dive into experiential hospitality trends in Asia

In the latest FHA Insider Special report ‘Experiential trends in hospitality: Behind the scenes’ published by FHA-HoReCa, one of Asia's most comprehensive industry event for hospitality and foodservice suppliers, industry experts shared their insights on what makes for a successful hospitality experience. With the expected growth of the global luxury travel market by US$2.5 trillion in the next five years and increasing demand for more personalisation and experiences among travellers, Asian hospitality industry players have the opportunity to offer unique concepts and enhanced services to grow their markets.
The report highlighted the growing importance of storytelling and how authentic and creatively crafted stories can contribute significantly to an F&B or hospitality establishment's success. It also delved into the ever-increasing number of millennial travellers and their influence on the hospitality industry.


Serving up authenticity and memorable experiences
Noting that just serving a delicious meal is no longer the end of an experience, Ben Gregoire, vice-president of CKP Hospitality Consultants, explained that, “Good hospitality is all about providing memorable experiences for guests. Today's consumers are more discerning than ever.” Gregoire added that establishments must consider every aspect of the guest experience — from the initial contact point to the moment they leave.
Anurag Bali, assistant vice-president, Food and Beverage, South East Asia & Australasia of the Shangri-La Group, added: "It's all about the guest experience and well-established, well-run concepts — a strong story." Pointing out the dining trends now making "a strong story" across the region, Bali shared that restaurants and eateries that incorporate other elements such as décor or music, in addition to a substantial menu, are also attracting diners in Asia.
Indeed, with consumers more well-travelled and knowledgeable about the flavours of different food or the origins of certain ingredients, restaurants striving for authenticity will focus more on their food stories. This trend has resulted in "a virtuous cycle of restaurants upping their game attempting to recreate dishes as authentically as possible," revealed Nicole Fall, founder of Asian Consumer Intelligence and head of Trends at Capchavate. "Whereas, in the past, there was more emphasis on localisation or changing particular flavours and ingredients to suit the local palate," Fall noted.


FHA-HoReCa is happening on July 13-16, 2020, at the Singapore Expo.


Tasty Asia is proud to be working with Food&HotelAsia on its FHA insider Special series.
Click this link to download the reports from this series.