ILHA Magazine Q2 2022 V7.0 | Page 124

How Hoteliers are taking advantage of Technology to bolster their Ancillary Revene while boosting customer satisfaction

By Shawn Tartar , Founder / CEO , RealTime Reservation
Hoteliers worldwide are embracing a significant return of leisure travel in the new year while anticipating a massive spike with the spring and summer seasons approaching . Many are turning to technology to drive revenue while providing a personalized experience to ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty . The trend toward technological innovation began before COVID-19 but is increasing in acceptance , as hoteliers and customers understand the critical role of technology in managing their stay .
There ’ s little question that hoteliers are reviewing , updating , and embracing traditional customerfacing services thanks to the more widespread use of technology . This includes mobile check-in , contactless payment , biometrics , and voice control . These trends began before COVID-19 but have been accelerated based on the pandemic , its impact on the economy , as well as staffing issues , and guest expectations . Other factors like facial and fingerprint recognition are also driving this acceptance . In today ’ s day and age , virtually all travelers use some sort of biometrics on their smartphones and laptops and expect the same level of service and convenience in accessing their hotel rooms and taking advantage of the on-site amenities .
The hotel and resort industry needs to maximize operational efficiency and capture additional revenue as the industry continues to rebound from the havoc COVID-19 has wrecked . Increasingly , the key to winning and keeping customers
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