In a recent one-on-one interview recorded during the HITEC 2024 event in Charlotte, Hospitality Net's Simone Puorto sat down with Adam Mogelonsky, Partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting. This interview is part of our HITEC 2024 series, where we have engaged with a diverse array of speakers, exhibitors, and visitors to provide in-depth insights into the industry's latest trends and innovations. Mogelonsky shared his perspectives on wellness in the hospitality industry, the importance of employee well-being, and innovative strategies for luxury hotel owners and developers.

Introduction and Role of Hotel Mogel Consulting

Adam Mogelonsky introduces himself as a partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting, where he works primarily with luxury hotel owners and developers to solve strategic problems in unconventional ways. His focus includes leveraging technology, optimizing labor, and finding new financial strategies to grow businesses within the hospitality sector.

Broadening the Definition of Wellness

Mogelonsky emphasizes that wellness is a broad and multifaceted concept that extends beyond traditional notions of spas and gyms. He argues that wellness should be integrated into all aspects of hotel operations and guest experiences. Wellness encompasses food quality, employee well-being, mental health, and providing a sense of vitality and well-being 24/7.

Integrating Wellness into Hotel Operations

Wellness can be adapted into various aspects of hotel operations based on budget and branding. For instance, food can be seen as medicine, whether in an ultra-luxury setting with locally sourced organic food or a large convention hotel serving thousands of guests. Mogelonsky highlights the importance of employee wellness, stressing the need to treat staff like family to ensure long-term retention and satisfaction, especially in light of ongoing labor shortages.

The Role of Travel in Wellness

Mogelonsky discusses how travel itself contributes to wellness by offering new experiences, perspectives, and meaningful interactions. He distinguishes between wellness primary travel, where guests travel specifically for wellness purposes, and wellness secondary travel, where wellness activities are incorporated into trips taken for other primary reasons. This can include access to gyms, healthy food options, flexible spa packages, and exclusive wellness activities.

Industry Understanding and Opportunities

Mogelonsky expresses some frustration that the industry is not embracing the wellness concept quickly enough, despite its significant potential. He cites studies from the Global Wellness Institute and McKinsey, highlighting the vast opportunities within the wellness market, including direct-to-consumer products, health clinics, and wellness-focused communities.

Challenges and Responsibilities

Mogelonsky points out that lifestyle factors, rather than genetics, play a crucial role in health and longevity. He criticizes the prevalence of ultra-processed foods and stresses the importance of providing guests with healthy, natural food options. He believes that the hospitality industry has a duty to offer food that promotes better mood, cognition, weight management, and overall well-being.

The Essence of Hospitality

Reflecting on the roots of the word "hospitality," Mogelonsky notes its origins from the Latin word "hospes," which is also the root of "hospital." He reminds the industry that hospitality is fundamentally about taking care of people, including turning adversaries into friends, a concept that can be applied metaphorically to the modern hospitality industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Adam Mogelonsky's insights highlight the importance of integrating wellness into all facets of the hospitality industry. By broadening the definition of wellness and focusing on both guest and employee well-being, hotels can create more meaningful and satisfying experiences. This interview is part of Hospitality Net's HITEC 2024 series, providing a platform for industry leaders to share their insights and experiences.

 

Vestaboard - The medium for your most inspired messages

Display what matters most, on a schedule that works for you. Share thoughtful messages, inspiring quotes and beautiful designs with your favorite people, from anywhere in the world. www.vestaboard.com

Related