Intelligent chatbots, ice-maker sanitiser and eco-friendly water bottles: The best new products for hotels

From front of house to in-room amenities and software, a hotel’s operations are multifaceted and require constant attention to make sure guests are satisfied and the bottom line is in the black.

 

And with competition tighter than ever, many hotels may be looking to invest in the latest equipment and technology to ensure they stay ahead of the pack.

 

Therefore, we have rounded up the latest and greatest kit launches aimed at UK hotels.

 

Refresh your hotel equipment and technology with these new products.

 

Intelligent updating chatbot

HiJiffy has launched Aplysia 3, a new type of chatbot powered by Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), which delivers accurate, context-aware responses to guest queries, without relying on rigid FAQs. Hotel teams can input information into two editable documents: a shared ‘company knowledge document’ and a ‘property knowledge document’ for each site. Aplysia 3 uses this content to generate intelligent, real-time responses, eliminating the need for creating manual FAQs. Any updates made to the documents are instantly reflected in the chatbot’s replies, streamlining both setup and ongoing maintenance.

 

Price Included in HiJiffy Pro and Premium plans, from £159 a month

 

Biofilm-free ice machines

To combat the build-up of biofilm – slime and mould – in ice machines, Foodservice Equipment Marketing has introduced the Pentair Everpure Oxidice ozone sanitation system. The system generates ozone inside the machine to tackle biofilm without leaving any residue or taint. Oxidice can extend the time between general maintenance and routine cleaning and is quick and easy to install. The system sits outside the machine with LED status indicators, and there are no chemicals involved.

 

Price £1,320

 

AI-powered room pricing

RoomRaccoon is launching RaccoonRev Plus, an AI-powered revenue management tool that can deliver pricing intelligence. By using predictive AI, RaccoonRev Plus will generate daily rate recommendations up to 90 days in advance, factoring in competitor rates, historical trends, pick-up pace, weather forecasts and lead-time behaviour. The result is a data-driven tool that could help independent hoteliers stay competitive and unlock greater revenue per room. Future releases are expected to include full automation, allowing hotels to switch to autopilot when ready.

 

Price From £345 a month

 

In-room aluminium water bottles

Bottled water brand Re:Water has introduced an 330ml aluminium bottle. The bottle can be refilled, reused and recycled, and is available in still and sparkling versions. It joins Re:Water’s original 500ml bottle, with a 750ml bottle set to join the line-up later this year. Brand research, based on a survey of more than 2,000 UK adults and 1,300 professionals in the hotel and travel sector, revealed that many guests request smaller, eco-friendly aluminium bottles to fit in mini bars and hotel bedrooms.

 

Price Case of 24 bottles, £18

 

On-trend tableware

Zodiac has introduced its latest tableware presentation collection, perfect for room service. The range includes cups for fries, tapas and small bites; compact Charlotte pans for sides, desserts or baked specialties; and mini deep pans for curries and sizzling dishes. All the tableware comes in a selection of finishes, including gold, copper, silver, hammered, satin and mirrored.

 

Price Between £1.50 and £6.85 per item