By the FL Innovation News editorial team · Community
The Florida-Israel Business Accelerator (FIBA) and the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) are teaming up once again to drive innovation in the state’s hospitality industry. On June 10, the two organizations will host the second session of their “Tech Empowerment for Hospitality Leaders” event series, this time zeroing in on customer loyalty, guest experience, and growth strategies powered by emerging technologies.
Taking place at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, the event will convene hospitality operators, tech companies, and business leaders seeking to adapt to rapid digital transformation. Attendees will gain a front-row seat to discussions on how artificial intelligence and digital tools are being deployed across Florida’s hotels and restaurants to personalize guest experiences, improve retention, and boost operational agility.
A presentation from Hadar Samia of Duve will kick off the morning, followed by a panel discussion moderated by Business Observer’s Mark Gordon. Panelists will include executives from several iconic Florida-based brands: Metro Diner, Frenchy’s, Bascom’s Chop House, Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, and TradeWinds Island Resort.
“This series is all about relevance,” said Pam Miniati, Co-Executive Director of FIBA. “We’re helping hospitality professionals stay competitive by giving them access to forward-thinking voices, real-world case studies, and technologies they can implement now.”
“Innovation shouldn’t feel out of reach,” said Rakefet Bachur-Phillips, Co-Executive Director of FIBA. “We’re here to demystify emerging tech and make it easier for hospitality leaders to bring these tools into their businesses in a way that’s smart, scalable, and sustainable.”
“Florida’s hospitality industry thrives when innovation and leadership intersect. This series is about equipping our members with the tools and knowledge they need to not just keep up, but lead. AI is transforming guest expectations and business operations, this is our moment to lean in and shape what’s next,” said Dannette Lynch, FRLA’s Director of Membership.
In an industry that thrives on experience, loyalty, and agility, FIBA and FRLA are helping Florida’s hospitality leaders harness technology as a competitive edge. As digital disruption accelerates, this series is proving to be more than a conversation, it’s becoming a catalyst for how the industry reinvents itself for the future. All eyes now turn to the third and final event in the series, which is expected to push the dialogue even further.
Attendance information and registration can be found on Eventbrite here.
