PHIST 2026: Where Sustainability Meets the Future of Hospitality
What does the future of hospitality look like when sustainability is no longer simply about reducing waste or switching off the lights? It is a bigger conversation now—one that connects the environment with business performance, communities with tourism, and innovation with the long-term resilience of destinations. That is the conversation taking centre stage at PHIST 2026, Southeast Asia’s leading sustainability event, taking place on 7 September 2026 at อังสนา ลากูน่า ภูเก็ต. More than 1,300 tourism and hospitality professionals are expected to come together for a day of conversations, ideas and practical solutions, exploring how the industry can build a future that is not only more responsible, but also more resilient and commercially sustainable.
Sustainability has become an increasingly important part of how the hospitality industry thinks about its future. But beyond commitments and targets, an important question remains: how can sustainable practices create real value for businesses, communities and destinations? This year, PHIST puts that question firmly at the heart of the programme. A highlight will be a fireside conversation featuring KP Ho, Executive Chairman and Founder of Banyan Group, alongside David Johnson, Founder & CEO of Delivering Asia. KP Ho will share his perspective on the future of sustainable business, drawing on the philosophy that has guided Banyan Group since its founding in 1994: “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People.” For an industry facing changing guest expectations, environmental pressures and the need for long-term performance, the discussion offers an opportunity to look beyond sustainability as a responsibility—and consider it as a driver of competitiveness, innovation and resilience.
For Phuket, the island’s continued success depends on collaboration between government, businesses, local communities and tourism stakeholders. This wider perspective will be explored by Orathai Gerdsub, elected representative and Member of Parliament for Phuket, highlighting the role of destination stewardship in shaping Phuket’s future.
Across more than 25 sessions, including panel discussions, workshops and fireside chats, PHIST 2026 will tackle some of the most pressing issues facing tourism today. Topics range from decarbonisation and ESG reporting to responsible supply chains, biodiversity, food systems, technology and destination stewardship. The programme brings together hospitality leaders, entrepreneurs and sustainability experts, creating a space where ideas can move beyond conversation and towards practical action. And there is plenty to experience beyond the main discussions. Visitors can explore the Green Groove Sustainability Exhibition, discover innovative products and technologies, and connect hotels with local producers through the dedicated Non-Profit and Farm Zones. The PHIST Spotlight Video Awards will shine a light on industry leadership, while the Remade Elegance fashion show will demonstrate how creativity and sustainability can come together in unexpected ways.
As one of Asia’s most recognised tourism destinations, Phuket sits at a unique intersection of economic opportunity, environmental responsibility and community wellbeing. Its appeal lies in a mix of natural beauty, culture, hospitality, and the communities that bring the destination to life. PHIST serves more than just an industry event; it is a platform for Phuket’s tourism community to come together, exchange ideas and explore how tourism can continue to foster positive impact for the destination. As Jayne MacDougall, Executive Director of the Phuket Hotels Association, notes, sustainability is increasingly becoming a key metric of both business success, and destination resilience.
Whether you work in hospitality, tourism, sustainability, technology or care about the future of travel, PHIST 2026 offers an opportunity to discover new ideas, connect with people who are shaping the industry, and consider how more responsible tourism can also become stronger, more resilient and more profitable.
PHIST 2026
Monday, 7 September 2026 | 09:00–18:00 hrs
อังสนา ลากูน่า ภูเก็ต
Attendance is free, with advance registration required.