REPORT from ISTANBUL – During the MarketHub 2024 conference in Istanbul, Turkey, industry leaders Carlos Munoz and Jorge Cortes from HBX Group engaged with journalists to discuss the company’s recent evolution, technological advancements, and future strategies.
An Evolution, Not Just a Rebrand
Reflecting on the morning session, Munoz emphasized that HBX’s transformation is more than a rebranding—it’s an evolution. “Everything starts with the consumer,” he explained. The focus is on creating a seamless, frictionless experience for end consumers, achieved through an interconnected ecosystem of products and services. This ecosystem integrates accommodation, mobility, experiences, fintech, insurance, and advanced hotel technologies, all designed to provide B2B customers with the tools to serve their consumers better.
Technological Overhaul
Munoz highlighted the significant technological replatforming that HBX undertook, involving extensive work over 15 months to modernize their tech infrastructure. “It’s been like 20 years of coding that we just changed in a few months,” he said. This new technology interconnects various products and services, ensuring a seamless experience for the end consumer, akin to the effortless service model of e-commerce giants like Amazon.
AI and Data Integration
When questioned about AI implementation, Munoz stated that HBX is adopting a cautious yet strategic approach. AI is used to enhance customer relationships through chatbots and internal efficiencies by sharing information and optimizing processes. Additionally, AI-driven data analysis helps HBX direct contractors to high-potential hotels, improving conversion rates and overall performance.
Commercial Strategy and Market Adaptability
Munoz and Cortes outlined HBX’s flexible commercial strategy, emphasizing their ability to pivot and adapt to emerging markets. “We see the opportunity and we tackle it,” Cortez asserted. This adaptability is crucial as HBX expands its presence in markets like India and Turkey. The company leverages both technology and human resources to establish strong local relationships and ensure market success.
Customer-Centric Focus
Despite technological advancements, HBX remains committed to understanding and meeting customer needs. Munoz remarked, “The driver for change is not the technology itself; it’s the customer.” The evolving ecosystem is a response to consumer demands for frictionless travel experiences, influenced by their interactions with other seamless service industries.
Future Plans and Expansion
Looking ahead, HBX aims to grow faster than the market, leveraging its business model and market value. While specific revenue targets were not disclosed, Munoz expressed confidence in HBX’s capacity for significant growth. The company is also focused on expanding its footprint in key destinations like Italy and Turkey, aiming to double its business size and enhance market penetration.
HBX Group’s organization of MarketHub 2024 highlighted their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Through technological advancements, strategic AI integration, and a flexible commercial approach, HBX is poised to lead the travel and hospitality industry into a new era of seamless, interconnected experiences.
The article MarketHub 2024: HBX Group’s Evolution Unveiled first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.