Tony Loeb

💳 Mobile payment platforms streamline hospitality processes with options like BNPL, which can cost up to 7% per transaction. Hotel chains IHG and Marriott offer branded apps supporting various payment methods including cards, PayPal, and BNPL services like Klarna and Afterpay. Enhanced security is crucial, with 3D Secure adding an extra layer of authentication for credit card transactions. AI is integrated for transaction monitoring, detecting fraudulent activity. Personalized offers are created using data analytics, promoting repeat business and brand loyalty. Fintech is seen as key to enhancing guest experiences.

🚫 Public Wi-Fi networks pose significant cybersecurity risks including Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks, malware, and ransomware. To protect networks and users, measures such as separate networks for public users, Acceptable Use Policies (AUP), enterprise-grade authentication like 802.1X or WPA3, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), logging and monitoring, and protective DNS filtering are recommended. Encouraging the use of VPNs can also enhance security. The hospitality industry must balance the provision of high-performing Wi-Fi with the necessity of securing it against cyber threats.

📱 Kris Douglas, VP of Technology at Small Sliders, focuses on enhancing the brand's digital roadmap with high-quality cheeseburger sliders. Early this year, the brand launched an integrated digital ordering system, an updated app, and a Thanx-powered loyalty program. Since February, the loyalty program is trending towards 40,000 members, despite having only 16 locations. This digital strategy aims to build customer relationships and brand momentum.

📌 SiteMinder, a leading hotel distribution and revenue platform, unveiled 'Dynamic Revenue Plus' for live market intelligence and actionable inventory, pricing, and distribution strategies. Powered by data from 120 million annual hotel reservations, the solution will soon incorporate dynamic pricing recommendations from IDeaS, a SAS company. This unified solution moves hotels away from static revenue management to dynamic, demand-based pricing adjustments accessible via mobile and desktop. Conceived in late 2023 and initially available in Australia and New Zealand, with a global rollout planned for 2025, it's a part of SiteMinder's Smart Platform strategy to make advanced revenue management accessible worldwide. This launch coincides with growing international travel and aims to give hoteliers insights into future demand, enabling them to capitalize on revenue opportunities.