Insights from Miriam Moscovici at Phocuswright Europe 2025: The Intersection of AI and Hospitality
As the global travel landscape evolves, events like Phocuswright Europe 2025 in the vibrant city of Barcelona serve as a crucible for innovation and inspiration. One of the key figures at this year’s event was Miriam Moscovici, Vice President of Partnerships and Research at BCD Travel, who delved into the profound transformation of the travel and hospitality sector driven by startups and artificial intelligence (AI).
A Stage for Startup Innovation
Moscovici not only attended Phocuswright but also lent her expertise as a judge for the highly anticipated startup competition. This immersive experience allowed her to witness firsthand a diverse array of travel innovations, noting a telling shift in the industry.
“We saw a ton of variety,” Moscovici remarked. “AI and booking innovation were strong themes, but I was particularly intrigued by the startups that are blending digital solutions with real-world service enhancements.” This trend suggests a new frontier where technology does not replace the human touch, but instead augments it.
Redefining the Guest Experience Through Technology
One noteworthy presentation highlighted a startup’s innovative approach to quality assurance in hotels, which is crucial in responding to today’s staffing challenges in the hospitality industry. The startup introduced a user-friendly platform where housekeepers and supervisors can conduct real-time inspections of room standards, providing instant feedback to ensure that every guest experience is up to par.
Moscovici emphasized the importance of this technology for corporate travelers: “Quality and consistency aren’t just luxuries for business travelers—they’re necessities,” she stated. The potential to enhance productivity and comfort through tech-driven quality upgrades underscores the vital role such innovations will play in shaping the future of travel.
AI, LLMs, and the Rise of Intelligent Booking
The discussion soon turned to the transformative power of AI, particularly Large Language Models (LLMs). According to Moscovici, these advancements represent a critical pivot for travel booking landscapes.
“Travelers are gravitating toward platforms that marry self-service planning with the personalized touch of a personal assistant,” she explained. This increasing sophistication of LLMs provides immense potential for creating responsive and customized experiences. However, it also comes with heightened consumer expectations.
“Buyers are going to demand more,” she warned. "As service providers, we must rise to meet those expectations by not only enhancing booking experiences but also offering greater intelligence and insights throughout the travel lifecycle.”
BCD Travel: Scaling Innovation for the Enterprise
As a leading Mega Travel Management Company (TMC), BCD Travel is committed to navigating large-scale transformation effectively. Moscovici pointed out that in 2025, their clients are primarily focused on cost savings and avoidance, particularly in light of fluctuating global travel prices.
Yet, she emphasized that the underlying priority remains centered on traveler safety and duty of care. This emphasis on protecting employees underscores BCD’s long-term investment strategy, channeling resources into solutions that ensure security and resilience for clients’ personnel.
Moscovici stated, “We’re not just solving travel problems; we’re helping companies safeguard their people and maintain productivity in an unpredictable world.”
Startups Meet Stability: A Synergistic Future
Phocuswright Europe has become a dynamic platform where ambitious startups interact with established industry giants. Moscovici believes this confluence of fresh ideas and seasoned strategies is vital for advancing the travel sector.
“New ideas from startups paired with the grounded strategies of larger companies complement each other,” she elaborated. "It’s how we build a better, balanced future for travel."
Barcelona: A Fitting Backdrop for Innovation
The picturesque backdrop of Barcelona adds to the allure of Phocuswright Europe, creating an inspiring atmosphere for collaboration and innovation. With its rich cultural heritage intertwined with cutting-edge infrastructure, the city illustrates the delicate balance the travel industry must navigate between tradition and modernity.
Moscovici, operating at the intersection of partnerships, research, and strategic foresight, finds this environment energizing. “Innovation doesn’t always mean disruption,” she concluded. “Sometimes, it’s about making the everyday better, smarter, and more human.”
By focusing on harnessing technology to enhance the fundamental experience of travel, professionals like Moscovici are leading the charge toward a brighter, more interconnected future in the hospitality industry.