Sustainable Sourcing
Sustainability continues to be a driving force in procurement across all industries, and the hospitality sector is no exception. In 2024, we can expect to see a heightened focus on sustainable sourcing. Hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality businesses will increasingly prioritise suppliers that offer eco-friendly products and share their same ambitions to make a positive impact on our planet and society.
Digital Procurement Solutions
Technology is reshaping the way procurement is done in the hospitality sector. Digital procurement solutions, such as e-procurement platforms and AI-driven analytics, will become indispensable tools. These technologies streamline procurement processes, enhance supplier management, and offer valuable insights for better decision-making.
Data-Driven Procurement
Data is transforming procurement strategies. In 2024, data-driven procurement will gain momentum in the hospitality industry. By analysing historical data and real-time trends, businesses can optimise inventory management, predict demand, and negotiate better deals with suppliers.
Supply Chain Resilience
The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for resilient supply chains. Hospitality businesses will invest in building more resilient procurement networks, with a focus on diversifying suppliers, reducing lead times, and implementing contingency plans to mitigate risks.
Ethical Sourcing
Consumers are increasingly conscious of ethical sourcing practices. Procurement in the hospitality sector will place a greater emphasis on working with suppliers who adhere to ethical practices and support fair trade initiatives. Transparency in the supply chain will be paramount.
Customisation and Personalisation
Guest expectations are evolving, and customisation is key. Procurement will need to source products and services that allow hotels and restaurants to tailor experiences to individual preferences. This might include customisable room amenities or personalised dining options.
Energy Efficiency
With rising energy costs and a growing awareness of environmental issues, energy-efficient procurement will gain traction. Many businesses will invest in energy-saving appliances, lighting, and sustainable HVAC systems to reduce operational costs and carbon footprints.
Conclusion
The hospitality industry is entering 2024 with a clear vision of the procurement trends that will shape its future. Sustainability, technology, data, and resilience will be at the forefront of procurement strategies. To stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of guests, businesses in the hospitality sector must adapt and embrace these trends. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the coming year, one thing is certain: the only constant in the hospitality industry is change, and successful procurement strategies will be pivotal in driving positive change for businesses and their guests alike.
About Office Depot
Office Depot is a leading provider of critical workplace supplies and services, with access to over 1M products from 10,000’s suppliers.
We currently work strategically with well-known brands in the hospitality industry to consolidate their supply chain to decrease costs, increase visibility, control and compliance. Whilst in turn, reducing their scope 3 emissions.
Office Depot isn’t just a supplier; we work together with our customers to fully understand their needs. From this, we offer a tailored solution which fully meets their specific ‘back of house’ hospitality requirements. Whether your procurement teams need more visibility and control over multi-site spend or your front of house teams need easier procurement platforms to place orders or faster delivery of products – we’ve have got you covered! So that you can focus on providing a better service to your customers.
