HITEC 2024 Hosts Record Number of Participants in Charlotte, Showcasing the Latest in Hospitality Technology
This year, the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC®), the world’s largest and longest-running conference dedicated to hospitality technology, drew a record attendance of nearly 6,000 industry professionals. Held from June 24-27 at the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, the event was organized by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®), a global nonprofit association.
HITEC 2024 offered attendees a comprehensive look at the latest innovations in hospitality technology, featuring over 325 exhibitors. The event also provided a robust educational program designed to address the impact of technology on the industry, alongside numerous networking opportunities with peers, decision-makers, and investors from more than 60 countries.
“HFTP is proud to continue the tradition of HITEC, which for over 50 years has served as a pivotal platform for introducing and exploring transformative technologies in hospitality,” said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe, CAE. “This year’s event not only focused on innovation but also emphasized the practical application of these technologies in enhancing business operations and guest experiences.”
The event kicked off with an inspiring presentation by Dr. Bryan K. Williams, who shared key strategies for overcoming professional hurdles. The following day, a session hosted by Anthony Melchiorri and Glenn Haussman discussed the elimination of technological silos and the promotion of tech-driven profitability.
Highlights of the conference included the Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) pitch competition, where startups showcased groundbreaking solutions aimed at advancing the hospitality industry. The competition’s People’s Choice Award went to H2O Connected for its innovative water management device, while Folio secured the Judges’ Choice Award for its procurement software tailored for hotel operators.
The exhibit hall, a central hub of HITEC, provided a dynamic marketplace for attendees to explore and engage with the latest products and services. Exhibitors like TigerTMS and new entrants such as Flock AI expressed satisfaction with the networking opportunities and leads generated during the event.
“HITEC 2024 has been an exceptional experience, fostering new business relationships and reinforcing existing ones,” said Rich Tuckwell-Skuda, CEO and Founder of The Anything Group. “The atmosphere of innovation and collaboration here is truly unparalleled.”
As HITEC 2024 concluded, preparations for HITEC Indianapolis 2025 were already underway, scheduled for June 16-19 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Booth sales for the next conference have begun, promising another exciting event for the hospitality technology sector.
For more details on HFTP’s future events and activities, visit hftp.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department.