CALLING IT A DAY

Expensive to maintain, yield low revenues, need manpower to stock and monitor— minibars have fallen out of favour over the years. The fear of contamination furthers the reasons why many hotels are pulling the plug on them

- NISHA SHUKLA

Once regarded as the most popular in-room luxury amenity, minibars are now neglected and underused by most guests staying in premium and luxury hotels.

Let us admit minibars serve a useful purpose. They provide convenience to guests looking to satiate their untimely hunger cravings or cravings for a drink within the comfort of their rooms.

However, they are no longer a novel concept and add only a tiny fraction to hotel revenues. Some hotels are even lowering the prices of minibar offerings, while others are getting rid of them altogether and some properties are offering a few items at no cost.

The COVID effect that could spell a death knell

How we stay and what amenities we use in hotels will forever be changed by the COVID pandemic.

Hoteliers are altering spaces to meet the demands of a post-COVID world, whatever that is. They are also focusing on downsizing the content in guestrooms in a bid to stay ahead of the game and provide a hygienic stay.

Services such as the breakfast buffet, coffee stations, excess hangers and linens, even in-room minibars are being eliminated in a bid to lessen the surfaces that can attract the virus.

As a precautionary measure, Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity have, for now, removed the minibars and are not planning to bring them back anytime soon, due to hygiene concerns. “We are replacing the minibar with on-demand minibar items. Customers can place their orders for both the minibar food items and essentials. A note will be displayed on the minibar informing people about the move,” says Smita Rathod, Director of Housekeeping, Pullman & Novotel New Delhi Aerocity.

Much like Pullman, Conrad Bengaluru will continue to offer the amenities upon special request. The hotel’s new digital concierge, Kipsu, will allow guests to place orders from their restaurants or minibars.