While you’re planning your strategy for 2026, you’re probably seeing the same themes everywhere: AI, sustainability, rising costs, changing guest expectations. We’ve reviewed some of the latest global hospitality predictions from leading publications to cut through the noise and identify what to expect in 2026.
The emotional consumer takes centre stage
We’ve all seen how customer habits have fundamentally changed. According to insights from Modern Restaurant Management, guests now seek control, comfort, and emotional fulfillment from their dining experiences. This shift means choices are about balance and agency rather than strict health rules. People want to feel good without guilt, and they’re drawn to brands that project trust, authenticity, and calm.
For operators, this translates to creating experiences that feel meaningful and intentional. As Lightspeed‘s 2026 hospitality trends report notes, guests are dining out less frequently but expecting higher quality when they do.
Technology as an operational essential
The hospitality industry has been gradually adopting AI and automation, but 2026 is when they become essential infrastructure rather than competitive advantages. Industry experts from MRM’s 2026 outlook series highlight that from AI-powered ordering and inventory management to predictive analytics for demand forecasting, technology is helping operators manage tighter margins and staff shortages more effectively.
The focus is on freeing up your team to focus on what matters most: delivering genuine hospitality. Smart scheduling, automated inventory tracking, and data-driven decision-making are becoming standard tools in the modern hospitality toolkit.
Rising costs drive precision and efficiency
According to Orbisk, with food and beverage costs continuing to climb, waste has never been more expensive.
This financial reality is pushing operators toward more accurate prep planning, smarter purchasing decisions, and better waste management. Small inefficiencies repeated daily add up quickly—addressing them is no longer optional.
Sustainability moves from nice-to-have to must-have
Customer expectations around environmental responsibility are higher than ever. According to research highlighted by Orbisk, nearly three-quarters of diners care about how restaurants handle food waste, and almost half are willing to pay more for establishments that demonstrate genuine commitment to sustainability.
For many hospitality businesses, this means it’s time for sustainability efforts to be taken up a level, woven into operations, from sourcing to waste management.
Experience-driven dining
Your customers aren’t just seeking memorable experiences—in many cases they’re expecting them as standard. As noted in Modern Restaurant Management’s industry outlook, multi-sensory dining, immersive environments, experiential activations, and venue programming that creates community are all gaining traction. Lightspeed‘s research emphasises that ‘feeling-first’ dining (“This experience made me feel transported/comforted/amazed/connected…”) is beginning to replace traditional fine dining approaches.
This trend extends beyond fine dining. Even casual venues are finding success by hosting events, creating shareable moments, and turning dining into social experiences that go beyond just the food.
The value equation evolves
With economic pressures continuing, customers are redefining what “value” means to them. Industry analysts note it’s not about price—it’s about the complete experience relative to cost. Diners expect elevated ingredients, transparent sourcing, thoughtful service, and memorable moments.
Smaller, more curated menus focused on quality over quantity are resonating with guests. As Lightspeed describes it, premium simplification—delivering exceptional experiences without excess—is the approach that’s working.
Last-minute decision making
Spontaneous dining is on the rise. According to UK market research, over 40 per cent of diners now make last-minute decisions about where to eat. This shift is tied to hybrid work schedules, the desire for convenience, and a “treat yourself” mindset.
Hospitality businesses that make spontaneity easy through visible online booking systems, real-time table availability, and active social media presence are capturing this growing market.
Looking ahead
The trends shaping 2026 reflect a hospitality industry that’s becoming more intentional, more technology-enabled, and more focused on creating genuine value for guests. For businesses to thrive focus on balancing innovation with authenticity, efficiency with hospitality, and sustainability with profitability.
Understanding these shifts and adapting strategically will be key to success in the year ahead.
Sources
This article draws insights from the following industry publications: