Hotel Communication Network acquires Crave Interactive, a UK-based innovator specializing in digital guest experiences for luxury hotels. The deal closed today for an undisclosed amount.
Crave Interactive, established in 2009, has built a reputation for delivering high-quality in-room tablets and AI-driven guest services, catering to an elite clientele that includes MGM Resorts, Fairmont and Hyatt. Their platform facilitates seamless guest interactions, from room service orders to spa bookings, enhancing the overall guest experience.
HCN's acquisition of Crave Interactive is a calculated step towards integrating complementary technologies and expertise and expanding HCN’s growing ad network, which allows hoteliers to acquire the substantial capabilities of this powerful guest engagement platform at greatly reduced rates through HCN’s newly introduced ad-subsidized model. HCN is combining can’t-miss proactive digital signage with global brand advertising that pleases guests and creates new sources of revenue 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. With ad revenues supporting this innovation, the technology is now within reach of every hotel globally. HCN offers hotels a new level of personalization and service for every guest on a mass scale.
“This acquisition is more than a merger of technologies; it's a fusion of visions aimed at redefining the guest experience," HCN CEO Kevin Bidner said in a statement. "By combining our strengths, we will deliver unparalleled value to hoteliers and guests alike."
HCN views this acquisition as a significant consolidation in the hospitality tech space. The combined company will have operations and installations in 25 countries with both tablet and mobile applications. With this acquisition, HCN has created a truly global solution for an industry seeking to modernize their in-room services and guest experience strategies.