6 Marketing trends for hotel tech in 2025
A pragmatic view what will really happen with hotel marketing in 2025
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As the world unveils its trends for 2025, I’ll share my own approach. Instead of obsessing over trends, I’ll focus on some strategies that are crucial for success, regardless of whether it’s new or old. Here’s a roadmap for a pragmatic marketing plan in 2025:
1. Educational Content
Education-driven content is no longer optional, but everyone else is doing it too. Quality will set you apart—this means deep insights, actionable advice, and exceptional production. Additionally, rely on paid distribution to ensure your content reaches the right audience. Organic reach alone won’t cut it.
2. Embrace (and Manage) Reviews
SaaS companies are grappling with reviews much like hotels did with TripAdvisor 20 years ago. It’s time to get over it. Reviews will define reputations, and yes, there will be a wave of fake reviews—but these too will pass (I hope). Focus on building trust by actively managing and responding to reviews.
3. Leverage the Power of Press Releases
Press releases may feel outdated, but they remain one of the most efficient ways to communicate key news succinctly. Whether announcing funding, a product launch, or milestones, use them as a practical and direct channel for important updates.
4. Reframe Trade Shows
Trade shows aren’t the prospecting gold mines they once were, but they still matter. Use them to impress, nurture existing relationships, and connect with partners. Remember, in an era where every vendor is just a click away, trade shows are about building trust and visibility—not quick lead generation, though some still happens.
5. Adapt to Declining Website Clicks
Traffic behaviors are shifting, and you’ll likely see fewer clicks on your website (see last week’s email about zero-click search). Start restructuring your metrics and KPIs now to account for non-visit engagement, such as content consumption and engagement on external platforms.
6. Rethink Lead Magnets
Asking for an email has become a heavy lift—people treat their inbox like hard currency. Explore new ways to re-engage audiences without email addresses. Interactive content, retargeting strategies, or community-building platforms could become valuable tools for staying connected without relying solely on traditional lead magnets. Be creative and think beyond the inbox. Remember the reason why you’re doing this, it isn’t to capture an email but to create a lasting impression and be able to reach out with an offer or more information.
The Bottom Line
2025 isn’t about reinventing the wheel with some AI marketing hack, but about refining what works and being adaptable. With all the tools, the AI, the spam, the trends to follow etc. Think with “first principles” of marketing. What are you actually trying to achieve?, why is it important?, the tool and method is secondary.
