At HITEC 2025 in Indianapolis, we caught up with Frank Wolfe, CEO of Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), to reflect on a highly successful edition of the conference. With record-breaking numbers, exciting innovation from new exhibitors, and a packed exhibition floor, this year’s event confirmed HITEC’s role as the global stage for hospitality technology. We also looked ahead to 2026, which will bring the event to San Antonio, Texas.

How did HITEC 2025 go?

According to Frank Wolfe, this year’s HITEC was a major success. The energy was high, and feedback from both attendees and exhibitors was overwhelmingly positive. A large number of new visitors and returning veterans contributed to a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere.

Were there many new exhibitors this year?

Yes, Wolfe confirmed that roughly 20 to 25 percent of the exhibitors were new to the show. The event completely sold out, with a waiting list forming from day one. Ten new companies have already signed up to exhibit at next year’s edition.

Did HITEC 2025 break any records?

Several, in fact. The event featured what was likely the largest exhibition floor in its history, potentially even surpassing the dot-com boom era of 2001. The opening night party at Lucas Oil Stadium drew a record crowd of nearly 2,700 participants, adding to the celebratory mood.

What stood out in this year’s E20X start-up pitch competition?

The E20X start-up programme saw its strongest group of participants to date. Eight companies made it to the final round, and investor interest was notably high. Wolfe expects that two or three of these companies will secure funding soon.

Who won the E20X competition?

A company called Levee won both the People’s Choice Award and the Judges’ Choice Award, a first in the history of E20X. Their facial recognition product for housekeeping staff helps identify cleanliness issues and maintenance needs in rooms, streamlining operations and improving room turnover speed.

What are the plans for HITEC 2026?

Planning is already well underway, with around 65 percent of the exhibition floor for 2026 already sold. HITEC will head to San Antonio, Texas, with the event set along the scenic Riverwalk, one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. The team is already anticipating another record-breaking year.

About HFTP

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with an offices in the EU. HFTP is recognized as a group supporting the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world’s largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. In addition, it oversees the hospitality-specific Pineapplesearch.com® and the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI), Hotel-Online and Hospitality Upgrade Magazine. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.