The event centered on AI, automation, cloud-based tech, cybersecurity, revenue optimization, digital guest engagement, payments, and data-driven decision-making across hospitality operations, underscoring a balance between innovation and human-centered service.

The expo featured an 85,000 net square foot exhibition floor with more than 400 companies spanning AI, data analytics, property management systems, guest engagement, payments, and cybersecurity.

Tuesday’s headliner emphasized weaving human creativity with emerging technologies and practical AI strategies for agile, human-centered organizations.

Future HITEC North America dates are slated for late June to early July 2027 in Orlando, with HITEC Paris set for early November 2026 and HITEC Tokyo in early December 2026.

Next HITEC North America is scheduled for June 28–July 1, 2027, in Orlando, while HITEC Paris will run November 2–5, 2026 and HITEC Tokyo December 2–4, 2026.

Upcoming HITEC events include North America in Orlando (June 28–July 1, 2027), Paris at EquipHotel (November 2–5, 2026), and Tokyo at the Hospitality Tech EXPO (December 2–4, 2026).

Awards recognized industry leaders, with Bob Gilbert receiving the HFTP Award of Merit, Mary Gerdts inducted into the Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame, and Steven Gay named CHTP of the Year.

Three honorees were celebrated: Bob Gilbert (Award of Merit), Mary Gerdts (Hall of Fame inductee), and Steven Gay (CHTP of the Year), highlighting leadership in the field.

HFTP acknowledged sponsors, partners, and exhibitors for making HITEC 2026 possible, noting the event’s educational, networking, and innovation opportunities and the value delivered to attendees.

The Entrepreneur 20X startup pitch competition showcased emerging hospitality tech firms, with Stayfull winning Judges’ Choice and Abra Hospitality taking the People’s Choice award.

HITEC 2026 in San Antonio drew over 6,100 hospitality technology professionals to the Henry B. Gonzáles Convention Center, reinforcing its status as the world’s largest hospitality tech conference.

A new on-floor feature, Workforce 20X: AI Innovation Lab, provided an interactive space to explore AI tools and their impact on daily workflows and operational efficiency.