The Moodie Davitt Report presents the latest edition of regular column The Digital Conversation, in association with Shiseido Travel Retail.
NORTH AMERICA. HMSHost is implementing a communication tool that connects guests directly to their server at many of its airport restaurants across North America.
The restaurateur has entered into an exclusive agreement with Kallpod for use of the tool, which also connects internal service teams.
The system works by placing the ‘Kallpods’ – small circular pods with three buttons – on dining tables so guests can request service at the press of a button at key times during their visit. These might be when they are ready to order, want a drink refill or are requesting the check, HMSHost said.
A wireless communications system then provides specific, immediate alerts to service providers wearing ‘Kallwatches’, or digital wristwatches that display service needs of guests and updates from hosts and kitchen.
“The airport environment is driven largely by time, and fast, accurate service is important to travellers visiting an airport restaurant,” said HMSHost Vice President of Innovation Jim Schmitz.
“By forming this partnership with Kallpod, travellers dining at HMSHost restaurants will have more control over their time and will leave having had a better overall experience.”
Kallpod CEO Gabriel Weisz stated: “The world is constantly evolving and driven by tech innovation which has dramatically changed the way in which we communicate and interact with others.
“With Kallpod, guests are not only served faster and more efficiently but the experience is significantly elevated by ensuring every guest touch point is of value. Our partnership with HMSHost provides an important step forward for our platform and the industry as a whole.”
HMSHost has initially rolled out the Kallpod tool in select restaurants at airports including Dallas Fort Worth International, Miami International and Minneapolis-St. Paul International.
