Hotel Communication Network (HCN), a leading provider of AI-powered in-room guest engagement solutions, announces the acquisition of Crave Interactive, a UK-based innovator specializing in digital guest experiences for luxury hotels. This strategic move positions HCN to be a dominant player in the global hospitality sector and expands its reach into the four-star and five-star hotels markets. The deal was completed today for an amount that has not been disclosed.
Crave InteractiveEstablished in 2009, has built up a solid reputation for providing high-quality in room tablets and AI driven guest services. They cater to an elite customer base that includes MGM Resorts Fairmont and Hyatt. Their platform allows seamless interactions with guests, including room service bookings and spa appointments, improving the overall guest experience.
HCN’s acquisition of Crave Interactive was a calculated move towards integrating complementary technology and expertise, and expanding HCN’s growing ad networks. This allows hoteliers the opportunity to purchase this powerful platform for guest engagement at a greatly reduced rate through HCN’s newly-introduced ad subsidised model. HCN combines proactive digital signage that guests can’t miss with global brand advertising to create new revenue streams for hotels.
HCN and Crave tablets are set to transform the hotel experience globally with a true AI breakthrough. A multilingual human-looking AI Concierge is introduced to each guest via the tablet, becoming their personal assistant, a helping hand with hotel communication, a city navigator, and an itinerary builder. Ad revenues are now enabling hotels to implement this technology. HCN gives hotels the ability to offer a higher level of personalized service and attention for all guests.
Kevin Bidner said that the acquisition was more than a merger between technologies. It’s also a fusion visions to redefine the guest experience. By combining our strengths we will provide unparalleled value to both hoteliers and their guests.
HCN considers this acquisition to be a major consolidation in the hospitality-tech space. The combined company’s operations and installations will be in 25 countries, with tablet and mobile apps. HCN, through this acquisition has created a global solution that will help an industry modernize its in-room service and guest experience strategies.