E-business platforms for animation services in hospitality: Sustainable revenue models and digital transformation impact in European hotels (2022-2024)

Purpose. This study investigates the impact of e-business platforms for animation services on environmental sustainability metrics and revenue performance in the European hospitality sector. It aims to determine how digital transformation in entertainment services contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals while simultaneously optimizing hotel profitability. Methodology. A mixed-methods comparative analysis was conducted on a sample of 147 hotels (3–5 stars) across eight EU countries (2022–2024). The study compared 74 properties utilizing digital booking platforms for animation services against 73 using traditional methods. Data sources included Booking.com analytics, corporate sustainability reports, and Eurostat tourism data. The analysis employed multiple linear regression, independent-samples t-tests, and Pearson correlation to assess the relationships between digital adoption, environmental metrics, and financial outcomes. Results. Hotels adopting digital animation platforms demonstrated a 43.9% reduction in paper consumption, a 10.1% increase in energy efficiency, and a 25.4% improvement in waste reduction compared to traditional operators. Financially, these properties achieved a 26.5% increase in animation service revenue per room night. Mobile-friendly interfaces and real-time availability were identified as critical drivers of guest adoption and satisfaction. Theoretical contribution. The research provides the first systematic empirical evidence linking the digitalization of animation services to measurable sustainability outcomes, extending the Technology Acceptance Model to experiential hospitality services. It validates the integration of environmental impact measurement with financial performance analysis in the context of hotel entertainment. Practical implications. The findings offer hotel managers a validated framework for digital investment, indicating a 4.0-year payback period. The results support decision-making for digital transformation strategies that align operational efficiency with EU Green Deal objectives and corporate sustainability targets. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production