The final day of the R&R Forum, Wednesday, November 20, explores new frontiers in leisure hospitality, with a focus on investment, sustainability, and innovation. The day begins with an overview of the evolution of the open-air segment, covering campsites, caravan parks, and glamping, where experts discuss the importance of strong relationships between investors, financial institutions, and managers to create value and returns in this growing sector.
The issue of overtourism is addressed in a debate on balancing economic, environmental, and social impacts in popular European destinations. Innovative strategies for promoting sustainable tourism are shared, with hotels and accommodations playing a key role. This is followed by a session on leisure property development, emphasizing the importance of location, design, and construction to offer unique guest experiences and ensure long-term success. A panel of developers and industry experts discusses how to create integrated and iconic projects with an eye on environmental sustainability and local community involvement.
The day includes regional roundtables to discuss investment opportunities in the Greek, Italian, and Spanish markets, while a panel on wellness evolution examines the shift from wellness to longevity concepts and how these enhance asset value.
In the final session, strategies are explored to maximize profits in leisure facilities, considering variable costs, seasonality, market volatility, and ESG factors. Experts discuss asset optimization, strategic partnerships, and the use of technology and artificial intelligence to improve operational efficiency. The forum concludes with an inspirational keynote encouraging participants to rethink the future of travel and hospitality, aiming for an ambitious and creative vision to drive sustainable growth in the sector.