The impact of robotics on the tourism sector: the case of Barcelona

Abstract

This research analyzes the influence of robotics on tourism. It is an innovative phenomenon, but one that is expected to be present in most tourism and communication activities. Robotics is beginning to produce results in terms of jobs related to tourism. Robots are incorporated in all types of establishments, especially in hotels, restaurants and museums. The phenomenon is analyzed through a quantitative (implementing data from automatic check-in and check-out machines in Barcelona hotels) and qualitative (in-depth interviews) methodology. The improvements and drawbacks that they can represent are observed, as well as their repercussion on the tourism work environment. It is concluded that the inclusion of robotics in tourism is still in the development phase, but it implies personnel savings and more personalized and interactive attention for the end user. The machines are used more often in hostels and tourist apartments than in hotels.