Industry associations tackle real issues facing hospitality professionals
in the Middle East – guest loyalty key to bottom line performance
Leading industry associations the Amicale Internationale des Chefs de Reception et Sous Directeurs des Grand Hotels (AICR), the Emirates Culinary Guild and the Housekeepers’ Association Hospitality have attracted hospitality professionals from across the region at The Hotel Show to discuss the current challenges facing the industry.
Top of the agenda was improving standards and customer satisfaction which are key themes as the global economic downturn and new hotel supply take their toll on existing hotel revenues.
Steven Mueller, Director of the Front Office at Media One Hotel and President of AICR said: “We wanted to establish why our roles have changed and found that due to the downturn, front office personnel have to multi-task a lot more yet. We also found that because there are fewer levels of management, it is easier to see who the superstars are.”
“It gives a whole new level of exposure for this well established organisation and for professionals, who had not heard about the AICR before, to learn what it is all about and meet the members straight away. AICR is all about networking of professionals and where better than the Hotel Show to do this,” added Mueller.
The Association meetings which were held for front office managers, executive chefs, housekeepers and spa professionals have taken place over the past two days of the hospitality showcase, which finishes today (Thursday 20 May) at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The Housekeepers’ Association, which also took place yesterday, addressed the professional status of the industry, while the Spa Professionals group will look at how different outlets are performing as well as rules and regulations governing operations. The Emirates Culinary Guild (ECG) is also hosting its monthly meeting at The Hotel Show for the first time this year.
Ray Tinston, Sales Director, The Hotel Show, said: “The Association Days add another dimension to the show. It is vital that operations’ staff understand that they are sales people too. Efficient and friendly staff will strengthen guest loyalty.”
The Association Meetings are part of a busy conference schedule during the three-day show. Other elements include the Seven Star Conference, which brings industry professionals together to hear from high profile specialists, and the Middle East Spa Summit, which will focus on product and trend analyses.
