Trade Shows
70 | 71
and added value compared to the competition
from new tourist accommodation facilities.
Innovation effort
Innovation is one of the characteristics that have
defined Hostelco since the start and, in this
regard, once again, the show devoted specific
sections to the most innovative companies
and products. Moreover, the Hostelco Awards
recognised the R&D&I efforts of catering
professionals in three key areas in the industry:
hotels, restaurants and products. Amongst the
winners of these third prizes was the Spanish
company Room Mate, which received prizes in
two categories.
Hostelco also devoted a section to the
IoT (Internet of Things) applications, recreating
a Smart Hotel in which, using the first hotel
app capable of customising areas and tailor-
made experiences for each individual guest.
The systems tested included those for
identifying the user using face recognition
technology and the many possibilities that
guests have to customise their rooms, choosing
amongst different atmospheres, lighting,
sound and image.
The Hostelco programme was completed
by activities devoted to the world of
cocktails and others organised by the Café
Cultural Forum, including wine and food
tasting and talks, as well as the Ninth Barista
Championship, which was won by Adrián
Fernández representing Asturias.
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+info
15%
foreign visitors
600
vip buyers
