Design Meets Procurement: Insights from the BITAC Purchasing & Design Fall Panel

By Gavin Fraser | October 28, 2024

At the recent BITAC Purchasing & Design Fall event, a panel of industry experts shared valuable insights on the collaboration between design and procurement in the hospitality sector. The panel featured Emille Aboona, Managing Partner at Q&A Hospitality; Holly Nixon, Associate Principal at KTGY Interior Design; and Edith Ponciano, Founder & Principal of EP Atelier. Here’s a recap of their discussions on partnership dynamics, sustainability initiatives, and the challenges ahead.

The conversation kicked off with a focus on the essential collaboration between design firms and procurement teams. Each panelist emphasized the importance of transparency and communication throughout the project lifecycle.

Edith Ponciano noted that strong partnerships hinge on mutual understanding and shared goals. “Finding the right partners who can listen and communicate is key,” she said, highlighting the need for a collective approach when challenges arise, such as material lead times or budget adjustments.

Holly Nixon echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for early engagement with procurement teams. “Having honest conversations right from the start leads to better-executed projects,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of building relationships that foster trust and collaboration.

Emille Aboona added that a proactive approach is crucial. “We need to start collaborating sooner rather than later to ensure that we meet timelines and client expectations,” he advised, sharing his experience of working with design firms to navigate the complexities of project requirements.

When discussing the criteria for selecting suppliers and clients, the panelists highlighted various factors that contribute to successful partnerships. For Edith, quality assurance and open communication were paramount. “It’s about making smart decisions and being upfront about budget considerations,” she explained.

Holly emphasized the growing expectation for sustainability within the industry. “We’re looking for suppliers who prioritize environmental initiatives,” she said. “It’s no longer just about meeting requirements; it’s about pushing for better practices across the board.”

Emille added that while sustainability is important, it is not the sole factor in procurement decisions. “We seek partners who have proven experience and can deliver quality on time, which ultimately benefits the project,” he explained.

The panelists acknowledged the growing demand from consumers for environmentally responsible practices in hospitality. Holly emphasized that today’s guests are more informed and expect hotels to prioritize sustainable materials and practices. She also noted that an increasing number of suppliers are adopting sustainable practices, making sustainability more of an expectation among buyers rather than just a requirement.

Edith pointed out that large-scale projects often have specific lead certifications that must be met, further necessitating collaboration with suppliers who can deliver eco-friendly materials.

As the conversation turned to challenges, Emille discussed the ongoing issue of lead times for materials. “We’re often looking at 12-14 weeks for case goods, especially if they come from overseas,” he said. “Managing timelines effectively is crucial for project success.”

Holly shared her perspective on the industry’s cyclical nature. “After a slower period this year, we are gearing up for a busy year ahead. It’s important to be adaptable and strategic,” she remarked.

The panel concluded with a call to action for industry professionals to start planning projects as early as possible, which can mitigate potential delays and ensure smoother execution.

The BITAC Purchasing & Design Fall panel shed light on the critical interplay between design and procurement in the hospitality industry. As the sector faces evolving challenges and heightened expectations, the emphasis on collaboration, sustainability, and proactive communication will be essential for success. As the experts noted, maintaining open lines of dialogue and building trust among partners is the foundation for delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.

The event underscored the importance of networking and sharing insights, encouraging all attendees to foster these crucial relationships as they move forward in their projects.