Let’s take a look at the dynamics that have brought this trend to the forefront of hotel design. We’ll also examine how the hotel sector is working to make hybrid accommodation a central feature of its services.
The Rise of Remote and Hybrid Working
Prior to 2020, remote working was an emerging trend in which some companies were tentatively dipping their toes into the concept. The events of 2020 transformed this emerging trend into the dominant model, in what Time magazine[1] referred to as the “world’s largest work-from-home experiment”.
Fast-forward to today, and it’s clear that remote working is here to stay. While some employees have returned to working in the office on a full-time basis, many have chosen to continue to work remotely. The flexibility afforded by remote working has revealed a deep-rooted desire for a better work-life balance. This can’t be achieved through the traditional office working model.
This trend towards increased remote working is being driven largely by millennials and GenZs, who are increasingly dominating the workforce. A survey from Deloitte[2] revealed:
- 76% of Gen Zs and millennials prefer hybrid or remote work;
- 46% of Gen Zs and 38% of millennials say they are stressed all or most of the time;
- 45% of these employees had never worked remotely prior to the pandemic;
- 64% of Gen Zs would pay more to purchase an environmentally sustainable product, versus 36% who would choose a cheaper product that is not as sustainable;
- 33% of Gen Zs and 39% of millennials say that working remotely has helped save them money.
These trends indicate hybrid and remote work will be set to increase over time.
The “Bleisure” Tourism Trend — Merging Business and Leisure
Some people are happy to work remotely from their home office, while others see hybrid working as a chance to branch out and work from abroad. Why restrict yourself to home when, for many people, all that is required is a fast and stable internet connection to perform your role?
It’s this ethos that has led to the rapid emergence of the “bleisure” tourism industry. Remote workers are free to work remotely from hotels, combining work with exploration and leisure. This industry is set to experience exceptional growth over the coming years, reaching a valuation of $497.5 billion[3] in 2022.
With remote workers often working flexible hours, working from a hybrid hotel gives them incredible freedom to multitask. They can enjoy a “live-work-play” lifestyle and explore new environments and cultures.
What Are Bleisure Travellers Looking For?
Bleisure travellers are looking for specific conditions and amenities that set them apart from traditional tourists. These requirements are reshaping how the hotel industry thinks about hybrid hospitality to accommodate a new breed of tourists:
- Fast and reliable internet to keep clients connected around the world;
- Private spaces where “bleisure” travellers can set up a workstation;
- Access to meeting rooms and flexible spaces to discuss work face-to-face;
- Easy access to bars, restaurants, gyms, and other essential amenities;
Direct access to leisure pursuits such as outdoor activities and sightseeing.
