New research from BRITA Professional reveals manual tasks – such as inventory management, scheduling and reporting – are costing hospitality operators weeks of lost productivity.
- More than a third of hospitality employees (35%)are spending 6-9 hours per week on manual work that could be automated – equating to nearly 49 full working days lost annually.
- An additional 14%are spending up to 14 hours a week on these tasks, costing businesses as many as 78 working days per year.
The research shows that 69% of hospitality operators have integrated AI into their long-term strategy. The technology is being used to improve energy efficiency, reduce waste, and empower employees to focus on higher-value tasks such as customer relationship management, strategic planning and leadership. 64% also say AI is enabling staff to take on more sustainability-focused work, with 59% using AI for real-time feedback on energy and resource usage.
Despite progress, everyday manual tasks still consume valuable staff time. While many hospitality businesses have embraced AI and smart technologies at a strategic level, the benefits are not always filtering through to daily operations.
“AI and smart technologies are playing a transformative role in the hospitality industry – both in driving sustainability and creating more fulfilling roles for employees, but it’s clear that there’s still a significant opportunity to close the gap between strategic ambition and day-to-day execution” said Samantha Scoles at BRITA Professional.
“The BRITA iQ Meter – an advanced digital tool designed to enhance water filtration – is helping to close this gap, providing digital monitoring that simplifies filter management, boosts efficiency, and cuts costs.”
As operators evaluate the impact of their investments, the research reveals where smart technology is already delivering value:
- 69%of hospitality leaders cite energy savings as the top metric for AI and smart tech success
- 56%point to increased employee engagement in sustainability initiatives
- 59%report they are automating routine energy management tasks
From automated water systems to energy-efficient equipment, BRITA Professional is supporting the hospitality sector with smart, sustainable solutions powered by cutting-edge technology. BRITA’s iQ range combines data-driven filtration systems – the PURITY C iQ and iQ Meter – with its iQ Portal cloud-based monitoring system to help operators modernise their operations, reduce environmental impact, and enhance staff productivity. The goal: to deliver seamless innovation that frees up valuable time and meets growing sustainability expectations – without compromise.
