Edwardian Hotels London launches mobile check-in desk

Edwardian Hotels London is now allowing guests to check-in and out online in a bid to cater to increasingly tech-savvy visitors.

The digital reception desk can be accessed via a link sent through text or email and allows guests to customise their room type, amenities and floor level.

It follows a three-month trial which saw a quarter of visitors opt to take up the service.

The hotel group said it developed the system in-house to offer an ‘easy’ solution to consumers without forcing them to download an app.

“We know that our guests’ time is very precious and they want their arrival at any of our hotels to go as seamlessly as possible," said Michael Mrini, director of information technology at Edwardian Hotels London.

“The option of checking-in online or on mobile in advance of arrival lets them do that and pick up their key from concierge or guest relations.”

The system has launched at the brand’s 11 Raddison Blu Edwardian London Hotels and The May Fair Hotel, which it also owns and manages.

It forms part of a wider digital drive across the business at a time when hotels and restaurants are increasingly embracing technology.

Earlier this year Edwardian Hotels London unveiled its first artificially intelligent employee, a chatbot called Edward, who guests can text to order room service, request information about local restaurants, and even send complaints.

Hotel groups including Marriott and glh have already made the switch to online check-in, while Starwood allows visitors to bypass the front desk completely by using their smartphone as a room key.