Service robots, interactive tables and automatic inventory: the best new hospitality technology

From the latest cutting-edge hardware to entice customers and optimise service to essential software bringing invaluable efficiencies, technology is inescapable in our industry.

 

But it can be tough to keep up with the avalanche of advances, so we have sifted through the latest and greatest technology launches that can ensure your hospitality operations stay at the top of the pile.

 

Find new technology options below.

 

Interactive smart tables

 

Stratton Tech has launched its smart table technology in the UK. The interactive touchscreen tables display menus that guests can order from as well as hosting collaborative games and apps. The tables are estimated to reduce staff costs by up to 50%, increase average spend by 32%, and boost footfall by 18% on average, as well as introduce new revenue streams.

 

Price From £8.99 per table per day

 

Capture data through WiFi

 

Focus Group has launched Focus WiFi Intelligence, a digital engagement platform that transforms a hotel’s WiFi system into a marketing and data tool. The system captures data that includes email, WiFi access frequency and duration at individual or multi-property level. It provides customisable branding, guest segmentation tools for loyalty campaigns and promotions, and analytics offering insights into guest behaviour and engagement. Focus WiFi Intelligence can be integrated into customer relationship management, property management and marketing systems.

 

Price From £99 per month

 

Automated inventory system

 

Modoru has unveiled an automated inventory operating system for caterers. The system comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) infrastructure and an operating system/software as a service (SaaS) platform. The RFID infrastructure – a portal, RFID reader, antennas and sensors – can scan inventory tagged with RFID labels at speed, reducing human error. The system can cut operational costs by up to 20%. If paired with reusable packaging it can further reduce packaging costs and single use by 50%.

 

Price RFID infrastructure, from £9,500; SaaS platform, from £3,000 per month

 

Portal to brand guest journeys

 

Property management software Hospitable has released an upgrade to its Guest Portal, giving hotel property managers a fully branded way to automate upsells, security deposits, rental agreements and guest verification. The portal now offers custom branding, smart automation and an intuitive interface. Users can personalise the portal with their own logo, colours and a custom domain, ensuring guests have a consistent experience across Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo, iCal and direct bookings. Operators can offer personalised upsell options, such as early check-ins, late checkouts, movie night bundles, firewood or local excursions through all major booking channels.

 

Price Subscription, from £25 per month

 

Service robot with multi-table delivery

 

Jestic Foodservice Solutions is supplying the Bear Robotics Servi+ service robot. The robot can carry up to to four extra-large trays with flexible, adjustable configurations, and deliver to more than one table through its all-floor navigation, which allows it to navigate ramps and deliver liquids safely. Servi+ features responsive LED lighting and a customisable display for improved guest interaction.

 

Price £17,995

 

All-in-one solution for restaurant online sales

 

JJ Foodservice has relaunched its digital ordering solution, Foodit, with a new look and a one-stop package designed to help restaurants grow their direct online sales. Foodit now offers an all-in-one restaurant management bundle, that includes a branded website, tablet, printer, stand and optional mobile app. The aim is to give food businesses more control over their orders, customer relationships and profitability. The package also comes with free access to video tutorials on everything from promoting a website and uploading images to updating menus, applying discounts and accessing invoices.

 

Price From £799