As preparations commence for HOTEC 2024, excitement builds for the 16th installment of Fiji’s leading event in the hospitality and tourism sector. Scheduled for October 24 and 25, the event will be hosted at the Denarau Island Convention Centre and the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort. Initiated in 2003, HOTEC has transformed from a modest local gathering into a pivotal event on the Pacific hospitality calendar, providing exceptional networking opportunities, innovative insights, and fostering industry growth.
Originally launched as an annual event, HOTEC has evolved into a biennial highlight, with enthusiasts eagerly anticipating its occurrence every two years.
HOTEC, which stands for the Hospitality, Tourism, and Equipment Conference, was established in 2002 to address a significant need in the Pacific hospitality market. The goal was straightforward: create a venue where industry professionals could converge, explore contemporary trends, and forge beneficial connections. The inaugural event was a collaborative effort with the International Travel and Tourism Consultants (ITTC), whose expertise helped shape what has become a hallmark occasion for hospitality stakeholders.
From its outset, HOTEC has sought to provide hoteliers, restaurant operators, suppliers, and other industry professionals a platform to network, explore new products, and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of hospitality and tourism. Over the years, the tradeshow has attracted more exhibitors and attendees from across the Pacific and beyond. This growth led to the introduction of specialized zones for specific needs such as kitchen equipment, IT solutions, and hotel furnishings.
As HOTEC’s reputation expanded, it began to attract international exhibitors and speakers, reflecting the global nature of the hospitality industry. The inclusion of educational seminars and workshops further enriched the event, offering attendees valuable insights and practical knowledge to apply in their businesses.
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on digital transformation and sustainability, highlighting the latest technologies and environmentally friendly practices. The event has also become more interactive, featuring live demonstrations and hands-on sessions that allow attendees to connect with the innovations presented.
HOTEC’s expansion demonstrates its capacity to adapt to the evolving demands of the industry while remaining committed to its original mission of fostering connections and showcasing new developments. Traditionally aimed at Fiji’s tourism operators, HOTEC 2024 will broaden its reach by inviting hoteliers from throughout the South Pacific, thus providing exhibitors with an even wider audience for their products and services.
Currently, HOTEC is predominantly organized by the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA), which plays a crucial role in ensuring the event remains relevant and meets the industry’s needs. With its extensive industry connections, FHTA is dedicated to promoting Fiji as a premier tourism destination, solidifying HOTEC’s status as an essential event.
The FHTA collaborates with various stakeholders, including local government, industry associations, and corporate sponsors, to ensure a diverse and engaging event experience. This year, HOTEC enjoys prominent support from platinum sponsors like the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) and Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), as well as New Zealand Trade and Enterprise as a gold sponsor.
Participating partners this year include the Australia Pacific Training Coalition, Finest Liquor, Triple 3, South Pacific Coffee Company, and Fiji Gas, adding excitement to the event’s competitions. The contributions of event partners, including The Fiji Times, Decked Out Apparel, FIJI Water, Microhire, Fiji Airways, Sharma Music, and Total Event Company, are vital in crafting a vibrant and well-rounded HOTEC experience.
As we approach the 16th edition of HOTEC, attendees can look forward to numerous highlights, including a broad array of exhibitors showcasing top-notch products across various sectors, with an emphasis on sustainability. Eco-friendly solutions and practices will be featured prominently, demonstrating the hospitality industry’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The event will also offer interactive sessions and live demonstrations, providing practical insights that participants can integrate into their operations. Hoteliers and industry professionals can anticipate a dynamic and engaging experience at HOTEC 2024.