For facility managers, the concern that underlies most efforts is a universal one: savings – of time, money, labor, stress, and environmental impacts, to name a few. When it comes to furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) in the hospitality and healthcare industries, the need for savings is critical and never-ending. As technology rapidly advances, particularly green technology for FF&E, cost-saving efficiencies are well within reach for projects ranging from furniture upgrades to full-scale facility relocations. The key to unlocking those benefits is finding a procurement and project management partner with the expertise and experience to match your needs. Start with a close look at the technology and sustainability capabilities that can power cost- and time-saving solutions throughout your project.
AI steps into the FF&E picture
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making processes faster, smarter, and more transparent than ever before. Consider a renovation project undertaken just a decade ago. Even with blazing-fast internet and cellular technology, there were still mountains of paper involved and hundreds of phone calls and meetings to review materials, confirm orders, and approve installation. Today, advanced management systems allow for real-time communication that includes up-to-the-minute inventory updates and virtual reviews that ensure the fabric or furnishings are exactly what was ordered before they are delivered and installed.
A proprietary Warehouse Management System, like that used by JK Moving Services, can profoundly affect efficiency, costs, and customer satisfaction. “It’s a sea change for this industry,” says Josh Long, Director, FF&E and Hospitality Solutions for JK. “For every product that comes into the warehouse, we have the capability to take photographs, upload them into our WMS, and connect our clients immediately to that information through their own portal. There’s no additional cost and access can be given to as many individuals as needed, from the key contact within procurement to the folks on the ground facilitating the installation. With the click of a button, everybody has visibility.”
The result is a smarter, more strategic partnership that benefits everyone. With the increase in FF&E customization for unique hotel branding or medical facility personalization, this access also means immediate improvement in budget maintenance.
Procurement improvements through tech
Today’s technological advancements allow procurement teams to focus more sharply on overall efficiency and the strategic aspects of project management. Tapping into AI’s ability to analyze data and industry trends, for example, allows them to forecast demand, evaluate shifting demographics, and anticipate design trends that can influence customer appeal, particularly in hotel spaces.
On the supplier side, AI is used to help recommend the best furnishing and equipment based on quality, reliability, and cost. “We share the same goals as our clients in capitalizing on technology,” says Long. “To speed up the process, make it more efficient, eliminate waste, and ultimately provide a better experience for customers.” Advanced technology capabilities can also ensure alignment with a client’s sustainability and compliance standards. For hospitality and healthcare organizations, ethical procurement practices and a commitment to green practices are important considerations when choosing a supplier.
How is sustainability impacting FF&E design and implementation?
Creating healthy, welcoming environments for guests is paramount. Beyond the front-of-house effect, it is critical to establish and commit to sustainable initiatives that support environmental stewardship and responsible business practices. The right balance of intent and implementation results in waste reduction, cost savings, and demonstrated citizenship that can make a powerful difference in the ability to gain and retain customers.
“Establishing sustainable practices within the hotel and hospitality sectors is becoming increasingly crucial,” Josh Long explains. “Discerning guests are expecting a high-quality, healthy, and eco-friendly environment. They care about power usage, waste, local sourcing of food and beverages, energy-efficient lighting, and sustainable furnishings.”
When it comes to a major renovation project that might require moving, warehousing, design, and installation, finding a partner with a demonstrated commitment to sustainable, eco-conscious strategies and solutions is key. For FF&E, that includes repurposing, recycling, and upcycling current furniture inventory as well as textiles, packaging, paper, and plastics. A comprehensive provider like JK Moving takes pride in its multifaceted approach that results in annual savings of over 4.5 million pounds of waste diverted from landfills.
As FF&E trends for 2025 reveal, technology and sustainability are the top watchwords. Facility managers, general contractors, architects, and designers will be adding lingo to their discussions like IoT-integrated FF&E (think smart furniture) and biophilic design (connecting design to the natural environment). To stay ahead of the curve and find cost-effective solutions to the wide range of FF&E concerns in your industry, reach out to a capable and preferred project management partner to learn more.