The 2026 Show Theme

Shaping Tomorrow: Where Innovation Meets Independent Spirit

Shaping Tomorrow captures the spirit of a sector that is constantly redefining itself. As a hotelier or designer, it is your opportunity to explore new ideas, discover emerging directions and connect with the people, brands and thought leaders shaping the future of independent hospitality. Rooted in progress, creativity and originality, the theme comes to life through exhibitors presenting new products, design innovation and fresh solutions, alongside speakers sharing trends, expert advice and forward-looking perspectives. The result is a show experience that feels fresh, relevant and engaging, leaving you with a sense of momentum and optimism while reflecting the individuality, style and ambition that define the independent hotel world.

Scroll down to watch our latest trends video and step into the exciting world of hospitality in 2026.

10 Hospitality Trends to Watch in 2026

Trend 1 - Travel Light

Trend 2 - Rethinking Water

Trend 3 - The Adaptive Hotel

Trend 4 - Self Check-In

Trend 5 - Digital Concierge

Trend 6 - Recovery Wellness

Trend 7 - TikTok Travel

Trend 8 - Regenerative Hospitality

Trend 9 - Radical Transparency

Trend 10 - Spacewise

A sneak peek at the speakers who will be exploring the show theme at IHA26

This year’s sessions will dive into the key trends influencing hospitality, from evolving guest expectations and innovative design approaches to sustainable practices and destination development. Expect insightful discussions that highlight emerging opportunities and challenges, setting the stage for meaningful conversations throughout the event.

Speaker 1

Thomas van Leeuwen - Director, D/DOCK & Hotels for Locals

Speaker 2

Merav Bustan - Founder & Creative Director, Merav Bustan Design

Speaker 3

Monique Wilson - Managing Director, amsterdam&partners

Meet the 2026 Design Partners

See how this year’s show theme is expressed across the designed spaces on the show floor. From immersive environments to flexible, hybrid settings, each concept reflects key hospitality trends - blending experience, functionality, and connection to shape the future of how we design, work, and interact.

Step into the Innovation Stage at Independent Hotel Show Amsterdam. Designed as an immersive hospitality environment, it offers a moment away from the busy show floor — a place to pause, connect, and explore new ideas shaping the future of hotel design, brought to life by Jelena Obradov, founder of Obradov Studio.

Jelena Obradov is the founder and creative director of Obradov Studio, a full-service interior design studio specialising in residential and hospitality spaces.

Jelena approaches each project as a complete story — designing spaces where flow, atmosphere and personal narrative come together to create a cohesive and immersive experience. Find Out More!

Discover the Social Business Space at Independent Hotel Show Amsterdam. Designed as a flexible, hybrid environment, it offers a place to work, meet, and connect — a calm, considered setting that blurs the lines between business and social interaction, brought to life by Keshia Groenendaal, founder of Studio Bower.

Keshia Groenendaal is an interior architect and founder of Studio Bower, an Amsterdam-based design studio working across hospitality, residential, and workplace projects.

Her approach centres on creating thoughtful, adaptable spaces where functionality and atmosphere come together — designing environments that support connection, efficiency, and a more sustainable way of working. Find Out More.

200+ Leading Brands

Discover a mix of brands pushing hospitality forward. From emerging names to established leaders, explore products, services, and ideas designed to inspire, connect, and shape how spaces are experienced.