Hotel Icon in Hong Kong has collaborated with local start-up, BluePin, to introduce robots that are capable of delivering seamless check-in and check-out for guests.
The robots are expected to reduce waiting times and relieve pressure on human staff, freeing the latter up to focus on personalised service.
During check-in, the robots can generate key cards and enable payment all at one go in a few minutes.
Hotel Icon’s acting general manager Ian Lee said: “Robots at Hotel Icon are aimed at promoting efficiency rather than fostering an over-reliance on technology. For example, while our guests still prefer being greeted in person, highly-efficient check-in/check-out procedures remain an important aspect of the guest experience.”
BluePin received its funding from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and its Tech Launchpad Fund – PolyU also provided BluePin with entrepreneurial training, including guidance in financial management, marketing, patent application, and more.
Hotel Icon is also part of PolyU and an extension of its School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), where students are provided with a dynamic and interactive training ground within a five-star hotel setting.
