Checking In, Clocking in: How Co-Working is Reshaping the Future of Hospitality
- TheHotelFluencers
- Sep 1, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 14, 2023
The hospitality industry is changing, and one of the most influential trends is the rise of co-working and digital nomadism. With an increasing number of individuals working remotely, hotels have a unique opportunity to offer tailored workspaces and attract the next generation of travelers. In this article, we will delve into the importance of providing workspaces in hotels, the potential for generating additional revenue, and best practices from successful hotels in this domain.
Why Offering Workspaces is Vital for Hotels As mentioned earlier, the emergence of remote work has given rise to a new breed of traveler: the digital nomad. These individuals are not constrained by a fixed location and often work while traveling. Consequently, they seek hotels that provide comfortable and productive workspaces where they can collaborate and connect with like-minded individuals. However, it's not only digital nomads who desire workspaces in hotels. Traditional business travelers, accustomed to working in offices and co-working spaces, also seek convenient and comfortable work environments while on the move. By offering dedicated workspaces, hotels can attract both types of travelers and differentiate themselves from competitors.
Monetizing Workspaces to Generate Additional Revenue Incorporating workspaces within hotels is not just about attracting a new clientele; it also presents an opportunity for generating additional revenue. Here are several ways hotels can monetize their workspaces:
Food and Beverage Services: Many co-working spaces offer coffee, snacks, and light meals to their members. Hotels can adopt a similar approach by providing food and beverage services in their workspaces. This not only generates extra revenue but also offers a convenient dining option for travelers who prefer not to leave the hotel.
Desk Rentals: Hotels can rent out desks in their workspaces to both guests and non-guests. By offering an all-inclusive price that includes amenities like coffee and snacks, hotels can generate additional revenue while providing a comfortable and productive workspace for their guests.
Local Business Collaborations: Hotels can collaborate with nearby businesses to offer exclusive discounts and deals to their guests. For example, partnering with a local restaurant or cafe can allow guests to enjoy discounted meals and drinks. This not only enhances the guest experience but also fosters a sense of community between the hotel and local establishments.
Best Practices from Hotels with Outstanding Workspaces Examining successful hotels that have implemented exceptional workspaces can offer valuable insights and inspiration for others. Let's explore two notable examples:
CitizenM: CitizenM is a hotel chain that has embraced the co-working trend by incorporating spacious and stylish workspaces in their lobbies. Equipped with comfortable seating, high-speed Wi-Fi, and ample power outlets, these workspaces are conducive to productivity. Additionally, CitizenM offers food and beverage services, enabling guests to remain productive and focused.
Zoku: Zoku is a hotel concept specifically designed for long-term stays and remote workers. Their rooms are thoughtfully designed with co-living in mind, featuring spacious workstations, ample storage, and all the necessary amenities for a comfortable and productive stay. Zoku also provides a co-working space open to both guests and the public, acting as a hub for local and international creatives. This way they generate income from external guests who are using their facilities to work from. (See example below)
Selina: Selina is a hostel/hotel chain that caters specifically to digital nomads. They offer workspaces that are open to both guests and the public, charging a premium for non-guests. Selina also hosts workshops, events, and activities, fostering a vibrant and collaborative environment for remote workers.
To successfully implement co-working spaces in hotels, it is essential to consider these best practices. Design the space to be open, comfortable, and functional, providing ample seating, good lighting, and reliable Wi-Fi. Offering amenities such as printers, scanners, and power outlets caters to the needs of remote workers. Additionally, considering the provision of food and drink options, such as coffee bars or cafes, can further encourage guests to utilize the space.
Hans Meyer: A disruptive voice in the hospitality industry
The mastermind behind two of our best-practices is Hans Meyer, a forward thinking innovator that is trying to disrupt the hotel industry. As the creative mind and founding member of CitizenM, and co-founder of Zoku, he has a clear vision for what the hospitality industry is going to look like.
“We very much believe that hospitality and offices are two sectors which are going to merge"
- Hans Meyer said in an interview for Glion's Insider Magazine
Conclusion: Creating Spaces for the Future of Work and Travel The hospitality industry is witnessing a significant shift as co-working spaces become increasingly vital. Hans Meyer was far ahead of the game with the first CitizenM hotel opening in 2009 that already shared the philosophy of creating a space to stay, work and connect.
With more people working remotely than ever before, hotels that embrace this trend will catering to the next generation of travelers. By following the best practices of successful hotels like CitizenM, Zoku, and Selina, hotels can create spaces that foster community, encourage productivity, and generate additional revenue.
As the world of work continues to transform, it's crucial for hospitality professionals to ponder the question: How can we adapt and integrate co-working spaces into our hotels to stay ahead of the game? By embracing innovation and catering to the changing needs of modern traveler, the hospitality industry can forge a path towards a future where work and travel seamlessly intertwine.
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