Innovazione

📊 McKinsey estimates AI could contribute up to $1.1 trillion annually to the global insurance sector. Erika Delmastro from Europe Assistance mentions integrating AI for internal process efficiency and end-to-end product development, while Christian Garrone of I4T Insurance Travel warns of AI's risks in uncontrolled use. Nobis focuses on policy and claims management, using AI for message recognition and case classification, yet acknowledging possible errors. Massimiliano Masaracchia from Spencer & Carter highlights AI's effectiveness in call navigation if kept within trained limits.

☕ MUMAC Academy, part of the Cimbali Group, launches four new courses between February and March 2025 for bar and coffee shop professionals. The courses include a "Tea and Chocolate Tasting Workshop" on February 19, a "Bar Management Course" on February 26, a "Latte Art Course" with World Champion Carmen Clemente on March 10 in Milan, and a "Tea Sensory Skills Workshop" on March 27, all aimed at enhancing professional skills. Since its founding in 2014, MUMAC Academy has trained over 21,000 individuals in more than 40 modules, amounting to 1,700 days of in-person and online courses.

📅 eDreams Odigeo's subscription program, Prime, reaches 7 million subscribers, nearing the March 2025 goal of 7.25 million members. The subscriber base quadrupled in just over three years. CEO Dana Dunne highlights the achievement and the company's commitment to providing value, flexibility, and convenience, with anticipation to meet the long-term target set 3.5 years ago.

💻 AI agents, tested in the USA, pose both challenges and opportunities for independent hoteliers, threatening to erode their power in favor of travel giants. Experts suggest AI can automate tasks, personalize experiences, and potentially shift distribution models away from OTAs, offering direct booking advantages. However, hotels need to adapt their digital strategies and develop AI-optimized content to remain competitive. Slow tech adoption and outdated infrastructures could hinder hotels, while OTAs invest heavily in AI to maintain dominance.

🍸 Casa Gamondi, renowned for its aperitifs, unveiled Aperitivo Pink Citrus with citrus and exotic notes. Gianfranco Toso of Toso Spa introduced "Artists of the Italian Aperitivo" to highlight Gamondi's comprehensive, high-quality range. Aperitivo Pink Citrus responds to the demand for mixable low-alcohol drinks popular among Millennials, Gen-Z, and women. It's 13.5% ABV and naturally pink from carrot juice, balancing sweetness with a slight bitterness for a refreshing drink. Two recommended cocktails are Gamondi Pink Spritz and Gamondi Pink Tonic. Gamondi aims to strengthen its mixology presence with this addition to its product line.

☕ At Sigep 2025, Essse Caffè showcased a revamped exhibition concept highlighting coffee excellence and its ties to the Horeca world, featuring an interview by Fabio Russo with Lucia Galassi, Product & Communication Specialist. The display included a new stand with two tasting counters for shows, samples, and commercial services. They introduced Miscela Masini, embodying the brand's "3 S" DNA – Science, Wisdom, Specialization – stemming from a historic family recipe. Additionally, Essse Caffè presented the Sistema Expresss, a capsule machine solution for restaurants and venues with lower consumption volumes, and the Tavolo Coffee Experience for coffee education and culture. Their commitment to the Horeca sector is further emphasized by a partnership with APEI.

🚉 Riyadh's first metro system in Saudi Arabia, managed by the FS Group partnered with Ansaldo STS and Alstom in Consortium FLOW, includes six lines spanning 176 kilometers with 90 stations. The FS Group, working since 2018, secured a 12-year operation & maintenance contract for lines 3, 4, 5, and 6. The Orange Line (Line 3), inaugurated earlier this year, is the longest at over 40 kilometers, featuring the Qasr Al Hokm Downtown station. This public transport project aims to reduce CO2 emissions by transitioning from individual to collective mobility. Additionally, the FS Group operates through Italferr and Italcertifer and established Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane Saudi Arabia for land transport in 2019, focusing on MENA region expansion.

🍺 Gruppo Caffo attends Beer&Food Attraction in Rimini until February 18, showcasing products like Amaro Sprint, Grappe Mangilli, Calabräu craft beers, and Ready to Serve (RTS) cocktails. Celebrating 110 years, the group highlights quality raw materials and artisanal processes. Vecchio Amaro del Capo features 29 Calabrian botanicals and a spicy Red Hot Edition. Mixology Circus showcases Blood Bitter and Grappa Mangilli cocktails by top bartenders. Gruppo Caffo stands at Pavilion C1, Stand 128.

✈ Air New Zealand, serving long-haul travelers from North America and Europe, developed the Skynests project with bunk beds for economy class on B 787s. Originally set to be operational, the bunk service has been delayed but is expected on the New York-Auckland route by year-end. CEO Greg Foran aims to enhance the flight experience, and the company created cabins with six bunk beds, available for four hours per passenger at a cost of 400 to 600 euros.

🌊 Windstar Cruises' flagship vessel, the Wind Surf, with a capacity of 342 passengers, has completed the first phase of its renovation, which included the refurbishment of public spaces, restaurants, and suites. Currently sailing in the Caribbean, the makeover involved the main hall, reception, Yacht Club Café, Compass Rose Bar and Lounge, Amphora Restaurant and Wine Room, the pool bar, deck, the owner's suite, Star Boutique, and public restrooms, with all cabins now featuring brand-new TVs. Wind Surf now also offers Broadmoor and Sea Island Suites, luxury accommodations inspired by Windstar's twin resorts. A further renovation phase is scheduled for completion by December 2026, which will add new furnishings, goods, and decorations to the ship's cabins and will see the refurbishment of the Stella Bistro, Veranda, and gym.