4 Reasons Why Contactless Payments are getting Popular in the Hospitality Industry
Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular within the hospitality industry, and for good reason. They incorporate the latest technology and provide a more user-friendly experience to your guests. It is important to take a look at this concept in greater detail.
1. A Viable Hygienic Solution
It is no secret that the recent Coronavirus outbreak has had a huge effect upon the hospitality industry. This is why “business as usual” needs to be re-defined. Guests will be more concerned than ever with hygiene. The trend is likely to continue for years to come. Payments that do not require physical contact will therefore become some of the most popular methods in the future. Hotels that are able to offer such services will undoubtedly rise head and shoulders above their competition.
2. Fast and Secure
Most experts agree that contactless payments can be completed in 15 seconds, which is twice as fast as a debit or credit card. This rapidity is obviously convenient for those who are pressed for time or just completed a long journey.
Furthermore, the hospitality sector can benefit from these payment methods due to the fact that these systems use a variety of unique encryption algorithms to protect personal data. In the event a card (or a phone) happens to become lost, personal information cannot be disclosed to anyone else.
As is the case with duplicate transactions that are suspected of being fraudulent, such points will undoubtedly give your guests extra peace of mind during their stay. Contactless payments utilize an advanced form of wireless encryption, so the chances of data becoming lost or corrupted are virtually eliminated.
3. Superior Levels of Customer Satisfaction
The end-user experience is obviously key if you want to enjoy higher booking and retention rates. Contactless payments provide users with a much faster way to complete a transaction.
Additionally, many people will actually spend more if the transaction process is simplified, so these methods can sometimes be employed to offer upgrades and in-house amenities that the guest might otherwise overlook.
This brings us to the final (and perhaps most relevant) point.
4. The Ability to Offer Bespoke Loyalty Programmes
Many hotel managers are aware of the benefits associated with loyalty programmes.
Examples include:
- VIP rewards increase brand recognition;
- More positive reviews on websites such as TripAdvisor and Booking.com;
- An increased likelihood that guests will return to the property in the future.
Hotel loyalty programs can also offer guests points when they use a contactless payment system. You may allocate points to reduce room rates, provide discounts at the in-house restaurant, or offer other attractive offers that will make your franchise or boutique property stand out from the crowd.
Finally, it is important to mention that building a positive brand image in these critical times is key to long-term success.
Article References:
https://blog.smartvel.com/blog/hotel-contactless-technologies-for-the-covid19-world?hs_amp=true
https://www.i3pos.com/why-contactless-is-a-top-priority-for-the-restaurant-industry/
Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text above belong solely to the author, and don’t reflect views of the author’s employer, organization, committee, or other group or individual.
