BETHESDA, Md., April 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Marriott
International, Inc. 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. Both
concepts build upon ongoing measures to boost traveler confidence
while reinforcing the company's Commitment to Clean initiative.
Marriott's contactless experience continues to evolve, further
enhancing features such as mobile check-in and checkout, mobile
key, mobile dining, and mobile requests – which enable members to
make special requests for service and amenities through real-time
messaging – all available through the Marriott Bonvoy app when
members book direct.
"We are excited to unveil innovative new technologies to support
our guests as travel continues to return," said
Stephanie Linnartz, President of
Marriott International. "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."
More than ever, travelers are seeking to have more control over
their trips. According to a recent report published by The Travel
Technology Association, 65 percent of travelers say that
accommodations will need to use the latest technologies to make
them feel safe. In another report from Medallia Zingle, 87 percent
of U.S. customers said they would like to see companies continue to
offer options that limit in-person service. Additionally, social
media posts including the phrase "self-service" increased by 170
percent year-over-year from 2019 to 2020, based on a social media
analysis conducted on behalf of Marriott.
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.
The Rise of 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.
Both new technologies will help streamline operations with
increased efficiency, allowing hotel staff to engage with guests in
more meaningful, personalized ways. Exemplifying the art of modern
hospitality, they provide thoughtful conveniences to better serve
guests throughout their stays.
About Marriott International
Marriott International,
Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a
portfolio of more than 7,600 properties under 30 leading brands
spanning 133 countries and territories. Marriott operates and
franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all
around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy™, its
highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit
our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company
news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect
with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl
on Twitter and Instagram.
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SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.