REMOTE CONTROL

Start-up CEOs reveal how their technology is transforming the hotel guest experience, creating seamless and contactless ondemand services

- GEMMA GREENWOOD

The hotel industry has traditionally been slow to adopt technology, in stark contrast to the retail sector, for example.

However, the pandemic has forced hospitality companies to embrace new technologies given the sisemic shift in consumer behaviour it has generated. Guests now expect contactless and seamless experiences and automation has become the new norm. “The introduction of Uber, Postmates and similar on-demand services were already driving the trend for solutions that put the individual in full control of their experience and the industry will have to follow to attract the modern traveller,” confirms David Phillips, President and Co-Founder of Jurny, a company that provides management and technology solutions for boutique hotels and hospitality owners.

“Looking ahead we will see more technology in every facet of the industry, including an increase in in-room smart technologies, keyless entry and the total elimination of the front desk through virtual services,” he says. “More branded hotel apps will also emerge as companies look to stay relevant and provide a centralised experience for guests.”

Here, BTME asks three ‘techpreneurs’ to explain how their solutions and apps are bridging the gap between guests and hotel operators in a post-pandemic world.

Their solutions are creating a two-way conversation that benefit both parties, giving travellers access to services and information, often personalised to meet their needs, and empowering hotels to not only operate more efficiently but to analyse guest profiles to upsell third-party services that suit their lifestyles.

Jurny

Jurny provides management and technology solutions for boutique hotels and building owners that power a seamless experience for all parties.

As part of its turnkey management solution, it converts rooms and units into fully furnished, completely automated branded suites.