On June 3rd and 4th, 2026, the Hospitality Summit gathered over 2,100 executives, hosts, professionals, and partners from the Swiss hospitality industry for the first time at Festhalle Bern. Under the motto 'Co-creating the future,' the focus was on current challenges, new perspectives, and concrete solutions for the industry. HotellerieSuisse draws a positive conclusion from the most important Swiss event in the accommodation sector.
Thinking Ahead Together
The past months have once again shown how significantly the hospitality sector is shaped by
global developments, economic uncertainties, and societal changes. At the same time, Swiss
hospitality demonstrated its high adaptability, innovative strength, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Especially in challenging times, the value of exchange within the industry became apparent.
'Our industry cannot choose uncertainty, but it has learned to deal with it,' said Martin von Moos, President of HotellerieSuisse.
During the two days, national and international speakers discussed topics such as digitalization and artificial intelligence, skill shortages, sustainability, new work models, and the future of leadership and collaboration with industry representatives. At the center were people and the question of how the industry can remain attractive, innovative, and competitive in the future.
Successful Premiere in Bern
After five successful
editions in Zurich Oerlikon, the Hospitality Summit 2026 took place for the first time in the new
Festhalle Bern. With the new location, HotellerieSuisse responded to the growth of the industry event
and simultaneously strengthened the national orientation of the conference. The modern
infrastructure of Festhalle Bern provided optimal conditions for networking, knowledge transfer, and
encounters within the industry. At the same time, the event geographically moved closer to Western
Switzerland and created additional opportunities for national exchange.
Hospitality Award
Night Festive Highlight
A special highlight of the Hospitality Summit 2026, attended by 1,250
guests, was the Hospitality Award Night. In a festive setting, moderated by Jennifer Bosshard and
Bastian Baker, innovative businesses, committed personalities, and pioneering projects in the Swiss
hospitality industry were honored. The Hospitality Award Night recognized outstanding achievements,
innovation strength, and entrepreneurial commitment within the industry. A total of five 'Stars', a
'Spotlight Award', and the 'Prix Jacques Tschumi' were awarded. More information can be found in the
specific press release on the Swiss Hospitality Awards.
Platform for Exchange and New
Talent
The Career Day 2026 was also continued. On Thursday morning, it brought together
350 students, young professionals, companies, and decision-makers from hospitality, catering, and
tourism. In the hall and at the stands, they actively exchanged views, made contacts, explored career
paths, and gained valuable insights into professional practice. 'The Career Day is a chance to build
relationships long before a concrete position becomes available,' said Celine Waldmann, HR
Manager of the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois SA.
The Hospitality Summit 2026 brought together people who take responsibility and help shape the future of the industry. 'The future does not emerge abstractly, but in the decisions we make daily in our operations,' emphasized Christian Hürlimann, Director of HotellerieSuisse, in his opening speech.
From keynotes to panels to breakout sessions, the focus was on exchange about current challenges, practical discussions, and concrete impulses for day-to-day operations.