Businesses embrace AI and automation for growth and sustainability

Businesses across various sectors are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technologies to enhance their operations and drive growth. Key industries, including real estate and hospitality, are harnessing these innovations not only to improve efficiency but also to adapt to evolving regulatory environments and market demands.

In the hospitality sector, the growing urgency around climate change and decarbonisation has led to a notable increase in the demand for energy-efficient and electrified buildings. Regulatory frameworks have shifted from offering simple incentives to imposing stringent compliance measures, such as building performance standards (BPS), which necessitate reductions in energy consumption and emissions. According to a report from Hospitality Net, real estate operators must align with these regulations to mitigate financial risks associated with non-compliance, which is driving them to enhance performance and invest in sustainable technology.

Technological advances, particularly in AI-driven building management systems, are offering solutions that streamline energy use and improve operational performance in hotels and other commercial properties. Robert Mandelbaum, Research Director for CBRE Hotels, discussed the advantages of deploying AI in enhancing resource efficiency, stating that “the momentum for sustainability continues to grow”. As hotel operators realise the cost-saving potential of investing in energy efficiency, the integration of these advanced systems enables better management of energy resources, while also maximising guest comfort.

Another factor contributing to the shift towards energy-efficient technology is the rising cost of utilities. Recent trends in the energy market indicate a consistent upward movement in utility prices, prompting property managers to proactively seek efficiency improvements to lower operational costs. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated price volatility, and projections indicate that energy expenses will continue to increase due to a variety of factors, including the rise in electric vehicles and the demands of data centres.

CBRE has reported that while hotel utility costs rose by an average of 3.5% over the past two years, this increase is significantly lower than the overall growth in operating expenses. In 2024, utility costs for hotels are anticipated to average $2,478 per available room (PAR) annually. Notably, luxury resort properties experience the highest utility costs due to the extensive array of services they offer. On the contrary, limited-service hotels maintain lower expenditures but are still feeling the strain of utility costs as a proportion of revenue.

The hospitality industry is not alone in exploring the benefits of AI and automation. The real estate sector in Europe is expected to see a robust rebound, with investments projected to rise by 15% in 2025, bolstered by anticipated cuts in interest rates and a strong recovery in office leasing activity as return-to-office mandates take effect. The residential market is also poised for positive growth, with average asking prices expected to increase by 4% by the end of 2025 across major European cities, including London and Paris.

Analysts emphasise that the digital transformation of real estate, driven by artificial intelligence, is set to revolutionise property management and tenant acquisition strategies. The CIO World has reported that investors are keenly interested in how AI can enhance market analysis and operational efficiencies, establishing a competitive edge among real estate entities as they navigate through current market challenges and opportunities.

Both hospitality and real estate industries are seeing a concerted shift towards sustainability and efficiency, driven largely by technological advancements in AI and automation. As these sectors continue to adapt to rigorous compliance standards and evolving consumer expectations, the role of technology in achieving operational excellence and sustainability will only become more integral. The implications of these trends suggest a significant transformation in how businesses manage resources, contribute to environmental sustainability, and maintain profitability in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Source: Noah Wire Services