SINGAPORE, 25 November 2024: A new report from Arival, a leading in-destination experiences industry community, reveals a pressing need for increased technology adoption among tour, activity, and attraction operators.
Technology adoption was a key theme at the Arrival Activate event in Edinburgh, 23 to 25 November 2024. The event attracted leading in-destination experience operators to explore the latest trends, share best practices, and opportunities to network with peers.
The report, “The Global Operator Landscape: The State of Experiences, 3rd Edition,” is Arival’s largest-ever study, surveying more than 7,000 operators. It highlights that almost two in five operators globally still do not have a reservation system, even though online travel agencies (OTAs) now account for nearly one in three bookings for tour and activity operators.
Despite the significant growth of online channels, many operators still lack modern booking systems, which could potentially hinder their efficiency and ability to compete in an increasingly digital marketplace.
“The lack of technology adoption among many operators is a concern,” said Arival CEO and Co-founder Douglas Quinby. “In today’s digital world, it is essential for operators to have a modern booking system in place to streamline their operations, improve the customer experience, and remain competitive.”
Why adopt digital tools?
Improved efficiency: Automated booking and ticketing systems can save operators time and money.
Enhanced customer experience: Online booking systems make booking and managing their tours and activities more accessible.
Increased revenue: Online booking systems can help operators reach a wider audience and generate more bookings.
Adoption challenges
However, the report also identifies several challenges that operators face in adopting new technologies, which are acting as the main barriers:
Cost: Modern booking systems can be expensive to purchase and implement.
Complexity: Some operators may need help to learn how to use new technologies.
Lack of awareness: Many operators must know the benefits of adopting digital tools.
“The experiences industry is at a critical juncture,” Quinby continued. “Operators who embrace technology will be well-positioned for success in the years to come; those that don’t risk being left behind. As a leading authority for the experiences industry, Arival helps operators overcome some of these barriers and adopt the latest technology.”
About Arival
Arival is the leading events and intelligence platform for the in-destination experiences sector. Through its conferences, research, and online community, it provides valuable insights and networking opportunities for industry professionals.
About the report
“The Global Operator Landscape: The State of Experiences, 3rd Edition” is Arival’s largest and most comprehensive research study to date. It is based on a survey of more than 7,700 operators and travel experience professionals worldwide, conducted from April through June 2024 in six languages: English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish.
