Apartment hotel operator Staying Cool launches digital concierge with Criton app

Apartment hotel operator Staying Cool launches digital concierge with Criton app

App gives access a range of services from guides and video information to recommendations Continue reading

Boutique apartment hotel operator Staying Cool has launched phase one of its digital concierge service for guests.

An app has been created which guests can download before their visit to access a range of services from guides and video information to recommendations to enhance their stay.

The information on the app is all written by the Staying Cool Guest Relations team for an authentic local experience and quality service.

The app has been created using the self-build app platform, Criton, which also gives Staying Cool the ability to update information easily, add additional functions including online check-in and an events database.

Staying Cool positions itself as offering the best of both boutique hotels and serviced apartments and has pioneered the use of technology to stand out.

Staying Cool at the Rotunda’s general manager, Gavin Burns, said: “We have always been ahead of the curve as far as technology is concerned and what is increasingly clear is that guests want the convenience of using their own devices – laptop, tablet, or phone.

“For that reason we provide the best quality broadband and iPhone docks. It is also the reason why we have been looking at other technology ideas to enhance the guest experience – and the Criton app builder is perfect for that.”

Managing director, Tracey Stephenson, added: “We especially like the fact that the app is editorially rather than advertising driven.

“Every recommendation is there because we like the place ourselves rather than because we will make money from it – unlike so many concierge-style products on the market at the moment.

The new app is free to download, includes information around what you need to do before you arrive, maps, video instructions for appliances and my own recommendations for local restaurants and places to visit. With business and leisure traveller in mind, it is a real time-saver and it is convenient.”

Criton claims to be the UK’s first self-build app service for the hospitality industry.

It offers a drag and drop functionality for operators to create their own bespoke, branded mobile app. Users can create a digital guest book as well as online booking and check-in services, in-app messaging and location based notifications.

Phase two of the digital concierge rollout will see mobile check-in and room access, among other new developments, launched in quarter four this year.

Julie Grieve, Founder and chief executive of Criton, said: “Staying Cool have lived up to their name and using Criton, have built a very cool, fully customised app for their guests to download.

“It has been great working with Gavin and Tracey because their attention to detail flows into their guest experience and I think the app will be an innovative addition for their guests.”