Luxury hospitality is poised for a seismic transformation in 2025, driven by evolving guest expectations, sustainability imperatives, and the integration of innovative experiences. At the forefront of this shift is William J. Haandrikman, Managing Director of Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford, who offers an exclusive look into the trends shaping the industry’s future. From redefining guest experiences to tackling global challenges, Haandrikman provides unparalleled insights into what lies ahead.
Pushing the Boundaries of Luxury in 2025
1. Innovation at the Heart of Hospitality
Having worked across 11 countries and three continents, Haandrikman brings a wealth of experience to Singapore, a city that seamlessly blends heritage and modernity. He envisions Singapore continuing to push the boundaries of luxury, leveraging its multicultural essence and technological advancements to offer a sophisticated and forward-thinking hospitality experience.
“Singapore’s ability to integrate heritage with innovation is remarkable. We collaborate closely with the Singapore Tourism Board to ensure we remain ahead of industry trends.”
2. The Evolution of MICE Tourism
The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector is dramatically shifting. Hotels are moving beyond conventional conference rooms to incorporate immersive experiences, such as cocktail-making workshops and farm tours, transforming corporate events into engaging, multi-sensory experiences.
“Our MICE offerings are no longer just about state-of-the-art venues—they now include interactive and curated experiences that make business travel more engaging and memorable.”
3. The Rise of ‘Bleisure’ Travel
Business and leisure travel are merging, giving rise to the ‘bleisure’ trend—where professionals extend work trips into mini-vacations. Recognizing this shift, Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford offer preferential rates for extended stays, allowing guests to blend work and leisure seamlessly.
4. Sustainability at the Core
Sustainability is no longer an option—it’s an expectation. The hotel industry increasingly prioritises responsible sourcing, energy efficiency, and waste reduction. Fairmont Singapore is leading the charge, implementing automation to reduce food waste and launching a multi-year infrastructure investment plan to lower its carbon footprint.
“Sustainability is ingrained in our DNA. Our urban Aquaponics Farm, which supplies fresh produce to our restaurants, is just one example of our commitment to reducing our environmental impact.”
5. Personalized Guest Experiences
In today’s luxury landscape, personalization is key. Guests demand bespoke services that cater to their individual preferences. Fairmont Singapore’s commitment to personalized experiences extends to everything from tailored dining experiences to intuitive guest services that anticipate needs before they arise.
“Luxury is about the details. A standout moment was when our housekeeping team replaced a faulty travel adapter a guest had discarded, leaving a handwritten note. That guest turned out to be a key travel partner and has since shared the story widely.”
6. Value-Driven Dining Experiences
As living costs rise, diners seek a balance between value and quality. Fairmont Singapore’s restaurants offer world-class menus featuring produce sourced directly from their Aquaponics Farm, ensuring freshness and sustainability.
7. Hotel Bars as Destinations
Hotel bars are no longer just for guests—they are becoming attractions in their own right. Venues like SKAI Bar and ANTI: DOTE offer thematic experiences, innovative cocktail menus, and immersive nightlife that draw travellers and locals alike.
Overcoming Industry Challenges
Manpower Shortages & Changing Perceptions
Recruitment and retention remain some of the biggest challenges facing the hospitality sector. Corporate careers often overshadow hospitality, with many failing to realise its diverse career opportunities. To counter this perception, Fairmont Singapore hosts immersive recruitment events showcasing the industry’s dynamism.
“Hospitality is a ‘work of heart.’ We want to inspire the next generation to see it as a fulfilling career that offers global exposure and long-term growth.”
Redefining Luxury with Technology
Technology is revolutionizing luxury hospitality. From AI-powered concierge services to smart room automation, hotels adopt digital innovations to enhance guest experiences without compromising the human touch.
Shaping the Future Workforce
Attracting and Retaining Talent
**Fairmont Singapore collaborates with world-renowned institutions like École des Roches and Glion Institute of Higher Education to attract top talent. The company also offers task force opportunities at sister properties worldwide, allowing employees to gain broader industry exposure.
“Our 1,400 team members—whom we call ‘Heartists’—are the heart and soul of our operations. We invest in their growth through leadership programs, mentorship, and international exposure.”
Work-Life Balance & Employee Engagement
Work-life balance is a priority, with flexible work arrangements and quarterly recognition events to ensure employees feel valued.
A Vision for Luxury Hospitality in 2025 and Beyond
People First: The Ultimate Luxury
For Haandrikman, true luxury is about human connection. While technology and innovation play pivotal roles, the people behind the experiences define luxury.
“In hospitality, people come first. If we treat our team well, they will, in turn, deliver exceptional service to our guests. That’s the foundation of our success.”
Final Thoughts: Advice for Future Hoteliers
For aspiring hoteliers, Haandrikman emphasizes attitude over experience.
“Hire the smile, train the skills. Hospitality is about warmth, passion, and service—it’s something that comes from the heart.”
A Legacy of Leadership
As Haandrikman continues to lead Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford into 2025 and beyond, his focus remains on building an innovative, sustainable, and people-centric hospitality ecosystem.
“Hospitality is the business of happiness. It’s about creating unforgettable moments, both for our guests and our teams. That’s the legacy I want to leave behind.”
Conclusion: A New Era for Hospitality
Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford are setting new benchmarks for luxury, sustainability, and talent development as the hospitality sector evolves. With visionary leadership and a commitment to excellence, the future of hospitality looks brighter than ever.
Written by: Michelle Warner
