OYO, a leading hospitality unicorn, has announced the launch of a ChatGPT-powered virtual front desk solution for its partner hotels in the UK. This solution aims to enable self check-in for guests, reducing waiting times and providing a more efficient experience. By integrating the self check-in technology with smart lock systems, guests will be able to enjoy keyless entry and exit.
The ChatGPT-enabled solution is expected to significantly reduce front desk operations expenses by around 60% for OYO’s partner hotels in the UK. On average, this could save them approximately €50,000 annually. Moreover, the virtual front desk solution is designed to support over 80 languages, catering to international travelers who may not speak the local language. It will also analyze guest preferences to offer personalized recommendations for activities, dining, and local attractions.
Gautam Swaroop, CEO of OYO International, emphasized the benefits of the virtual front desk solution, stating that it provides guests with personalized recommendations, exclusive offers, and seamless navigation. Additionally, he mentioned that this technology contributes to boosting bookings on OYO’s platforms, thereby creating an additional revenue stream for hotel owners.
Puneet Yadav, the head of OYO UK, highlighted the shift in consumer behavior towards digital-first interactions, convenience, and personalization. According to Yadav, this trend has prompted the hospitality industry to embrace guest-facing technology. OYO has made a deliberate effort to advance its tech stack to meet these new customer demands and leverage advanced technologies.
The launch of the self check-in solution follows OYO’s recent introduction of a new brand called Palette. This brand is aimed at offering upscale resorts and hotels to cater to premium travelers. As a pilot, OYO has already launched 10 Palette resorts and plans to add 40 more to its portfolio by Q2 FY24.
In other news, OYO filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), taking a step closer towards its initial public offering (IPO). After several delays, the company has decided to reduce the issue size to $400-$600 million. With growing interest in generative AI, many Indian startups are exploring industry-specific use cases that leverage advanced technologies like ChatGPT and GPT-4.
OYO’s implementation of the ChatGPT-powered virtual front desk solution demonstrates the company’s commitment to enhancing the guest experience and embracing technological advancements. By reducing waiting times, providing multilingual support, and offering personalized recommendations, OYO aims to cater to the evolving needs of modern travelers. As the company continues to expand its offerings and prepare for its IPO, it is poised to disrupt the hospitality industry with its innovative solutions.
