Marriott is Testing New Enhanced Contactless Technology
Marriott International today announced the debut of a pilot program for contactless arrival kiosks at several select-service hotels, as well as the launch of a proof-of-concept for contactless grab-and-go marketplaces at two Fairfield by Marriott hotels.
“We are excited to unveil innovative new technologies to support our guests as travel continues to return,” said Stephanie Linnartz, President of Marriott International, in the press release. “The pandemic has accelerated the demand for contactless services and we continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of our guests. The new offerings are an added benefit to the personalized hospitality we are known for, and we look forward to enhancing our customer experience by blending contactless services with dedicated in-person interactions.”
Marriott says that both new technologies will help streamline operations with increased efficiency, allowing hotel staff to engage with guests in more meaningful, personalized ways.
Contactless Convenience
Smart, contactless arrival kiosks have made their pilot debut at the Moxy NYC Times Square, Courtyard New York Manhattan/Midtown East, TownePlace Suites Monroe (Louisiana), and will soon be available at Moxy Miami South Beach, to provide an expedited arrival experience and help give guests peace of mind once they enter the hotel. Upon arrival, guests who prefer low-contact interactions can skip the traditional check-in altogether and complete an easy three-step process at the kiosk to check in for a single reservation, with room keys created on the spot. The kiosks employ antimicrobial technology baked into the touchscreen glass, powered by UV light to kill bacteria and viruses. Before departure, guests can use the kiosks for contactless check-out and to view their folio, or enroll in the Marriott Bonvoy travel program at any time.
Grab-and-Go
Founded on the principles of warm hospitality and trusted service, Fairfield by Marriott is poised to be an industry disruptor with its testing of a new grab-and-go marketplace concept that is inventive, yet familiar. The Fairfield Inn & Suites Frederick and Fairfield Inn & Suites Arundel Mills BWI Airport, both located in Maryland, have introduced wall-to-wall kiosks that offer a centralized marketplace where guests can select snacks, beverages, lite bites and sundries. The brand’s complimentary daily breakfast offering has been incorporated into the design during breakfast hours with a selection of hot breakfast sandwiches, sweet indulgences, yogurt, cereal, and fruit every morning. Specialty coffee and expanded a-la-carte items will also be available for purchase at the kiosks with contact-free Bluetooth payment. The individually packaged items are replenished throughout the day. Guests can choose to eat in the lobby, in the comfort of their own room, or on the go.
Guru’s Wrap-up
These new machines don’t really give out a very hospitable vibe. For now it is being tested at select locations only, but I’m sure that human intervention will be required for a lot of things. Let’s see how everything works out during the testing phase, but I expect that the goal is to eventually have less employees available at each property.
