In 2026, a significant shift in the hospitality sector of the UK and Ireland is anticipated, with over 28% of operators integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations. However, this swift incorporation is met with rising concerns, particularly regarding data privacy and security, as highlighted by a recent study conducted by Access Hospitality. The research, which involved 1,000 businesses and 8,000 consumers across six markets, reveals that 51% of hospitality businesses are worried about data privacy issues.
Among these operators, apprehensions about data protection regulations affect 38%, while nearly one-third report feeling inadequately informed about AI tools. The food and beverage sector and hotel operators share similar fears, with 45% and 46% respectively hesitant to share sensitive data with AI systems. Operators with fewer than 25 venues exhibit the highest level of caution, as over half express unease about data sharing, unlike 33% of larger venue operators.
Consumer sentiment also reflects these concerns, with 28% of UK consumers fearing misuse of their personal data by AI. A significant portion of the public, 41%37% who feel excited about its potential. Champa Magesh, Managing Director of Access Hospitality, advocates for greater transparency and security measures in the deployment of AI within hospitality.