As part of its ongoing refresh, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts has tested a series of new, market-specific services and features in selected hotels globally, the brand announced during the IHG Americas Investors and Leadership Conference in Las Vegas this week.
After interviewing more than 6,000 business travelers in nine countries, Crowne Plaza learned its target guests are looking for a hotel that makes it easy to get their work done 24/7 with as little friction as possible. Consequently, the brand has tested and piloted five guest experience enhancements around the world, beginning with hotels in the United States and Europe.
- Anywhere Check In: IHG’s Anywhere Check In offers IHG Rewards Club members the option to check in using their mobile phone. This is currently being tested in U.S. hotels.
- Completely Connected: This includes guestroom technology such as single sign-on, free and reliable Wi-Fi , one-click secure wireless printing and easy access to power outlets and charging cords.
- Energy Essentials: The brand is introducing quick and easy access to healthy snacks and services such as “Run Stations” providing local running routes, towels and water.
- Breakfast To Go: A selection of quick hot or cold breakfast food and drink options are available in easy grab-and-go packaging.
- Fast and Fresh Menu Options: Freshly prepared menu items are promised to be delivered quickly to help guests maximize their time when traveling.
The brand plans to launch the first three enhancements next year, with the two F&B-related offerings possibly being rolled into broader F&B programming.
“We know our guests are busy professionals, and we want to do anything we can to give them that performance edge that helps them be on top of their work and at the top of their game,” said Janis Cannon, global vice president, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts. “We have spent time listening to our guests and studying consumer trends. Having a superior understanding of the guest provides us with outstanding competitive advantage as we look to become the preferred and trusted partner for the new-school business traveler.”