TOP NEWS

📱 IRIS renewed its 10-year exclusive digital F&B ordering agreement with Marriott International, the world's largest travel company with 8,700 properties. Since partnering with Marriott 10 years ago, there's been a double-digit increase in guest mobile orders and revenue, with thousands of outlets across Marriott hotels now using IRIS’s mobile dining and digital guest directory solution. Kansas City Marriott Downtown saw a 30-minute reduction in customer wait times, an 87% year-on-year increase in order volumes, and a 94% boost in F&B revenue, showcasing the popularity and efficiency of the app. Digital orders average 20-30% higher checks than traditional orders. IRIS integrates with POS and payment vendors like Oracle Simphony Cloud and Stripe, recently adding features for allergens, split bills, and digital staff ordering, aiming to enhance operational efficiencies and revenue potential.

📈 Dec 3, 2024, EHL Insights Report on Hospitality Outlook 2025 reveals AI may contribute $15 trillion globally by 2030, enhancing staff focus on human interaction. Personalization via AI and partnerships offers hotels a competitive advantage. Employee well-being is emphasized due to skilled worker shortages, demanding mental health initiatives, purpose, financial stability, and flexible work. Travel trends shift towards transformative experiences for mental, physical, and spiritual health. Sustainability extends to employee and community well-being, urging hospitality to adopt comprehensive sustainable practices. Full report at EHL's website.

🌍 On Dec 3, 2024, Chinese travelers showcase shifting travel preferences, favoring visa-free entry and independent travel over traditional tour groups. With interests in outdoor activities, road trips, and sporting events, there's a notable change in spending patterns. Businesses must integrate systems like AliPay to attract this market. Influential in travel decisions is Xiaohongshu, with 100 million users, primarily young women, affecting travel and shopping choices.

💰 IRIS renewed their exclusive 10-year digital F&B ordering agreement with Marriott International, encompassing 8,700 properties. A decade-long partnership led to a double-digit increase in mobile orders and revenue. IRIS' mobile dining solution, part of the Marriott Bonvoy app, now expands across property areas including pools and event spaces. The Kansas City Marriott Downtown reported a reduction in wait times by over 30 minutes and an 87% increase in order volumes, alongside a 94% F&B revenue increase. The digital platform integrates with various third-party systems like Oracle Simphony Cloud and offers features such as allergen filters and digital staff ordering.