Jurys Inn Hotel Group said today that revenues from mobile bookings have increased by 80pc between 2012 and 2013 and as a result it will be rolling out a new online check-in service at its hotels.
The optional check-in facility has already been implemented at Jurys Inn Islington and will be rolled out across 31 hotels in Ireland, the UK and Prague.
The service will allow smartphone-toting guests to check-in prior to arrival, as well as give them quick and easy key retrieval at the hotel – bypassing the front desk entirely if they prefer.
Guests who opt in to online check-in will receive a text message and email link in advance of their visit, enabling them to confirm their booking details and arrival time.
A personalised QR code is then delivered via smartphone – guests simply scan the code at a mobile kiosk in the hotel lobby to retrieve their keys and head directly to their rooms.
Convenience is key
“Convenience is key, particularly for business travellers,” explained Suzanne Cannon, group marketing manager with Jurys Inn.
“Online check-in will provide a seamless experience so that guests can choose to check-in by smartphone, laptop or tablet at a time that suits them, meaning they spend less time at the check-in desk and more time enjoying their stay at the hotel.”
The pilot scheme follows a €2m investment in IT, software and technology announced by the group earlier this year, as well as a recent €14m Islington hotel extension and refurbishment project.
As well as the 80pc increase in revenues from mobile, the hotel chain said it saw bookings made via iPhone and iPad devices double in 12 months.
