PEAKLIFE

By Neha Mehrotra

AI is swiftly revolutionising the hospitality industry, and Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud is at the forefront with its groundbreaking innovations. The hotel has garnered attention by introducing a Made in India robot that merges advanced robotics into its services, elevating guest experiences through state-of-the-art AI.

In an exclusive conversation with PEAKLIFE, Anuradha Venkatachalam, the Hotel Captain at Moxy Bengaluru, delves into how this technology is transforming hospitality.

Anuradha Venkatachalam

1. Take us through its inception and the idea behind integrating an autonomous robot into Moxy Bengaluru Airport.

As a new-gen hotel and the first Moxy in South Asia, it was the brand’s commitment to innovation to position itself as a leader in the industry, attracting tech-forward guests and industry acclaim. Our intent to have a “Made in India” robot at Moxy Bengaluru is not only to showcase India’s growing excellence in research and robotics but also to revolutionise hotel operations. With its Elevator Integration capabilities, it sets new standards of excellence in the hospitality industry in India.

2. Moxy is known for its vibrant, playful brand ethos. How does the introduction of this robot amplify that experience for your guests?

Adding a dash of playful technology into our space has definitely been an exciting proposition, not just for our guests but for our crew members as well. The Moxy fun-hunters can now be greeted by a friendly, efficient robot that not only provides information about our hotel but can also serve them their cocktail upon arrival and deliver room service items promptly and accurately. It’s all about utilising technology to enhance guest experiences like never before. It has also helped our crew in many ways—they have the time and freedom to focus on providing personalised guest interactions while creating memorable moments.

3. How can AI play a role in enhancing the hotel’s overall sustainability credentials as well as contributing to the local economy?

AI significantly enhances our hotel’s sustainability efforts and boosts the local economy through various applications. It optimises energy usage by monitoring and adjusting systems to minimise waste, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. AI improves resource management, such as water and waste, through predictive analytics and smart controls. In procurement, it identifies eco-friendly products and supports local suppliers, reducing environmental impact and fostering regional business growth.

Additionally, it also aids in promoting sustainability to guests, encouraging their participation in eco-friendly practices. On the local economy front, AI facilitates job creation by identifying skills gaps and training needs for hotel staff, enhancing local employment opportunities. It also assists in matching local job seekers with hospitality industry opportunities, driving community engagement and economic growth. Through smart thermostats, lighting, and predictive maintenance, the use of AI reduces energy consumption and costs, while its capabilities in waste management, such as smart sorting and waste prediction, ensure efficient recycling and waste reduction.

4. The robot is a result of a ‘Made in India’ collaboration. How does this align with Moxy’s values and commitment to supporting local technology and innovation?

Partnering with Indian tech developers not only showcases our commitment to integrating local advancements but also fosters the growth of the regional tech industry. By highlighting local innovations, we enrich the guest experience and strengthen our connection to the community, reinforcing Moxy’s role as a champion of indigenous technology.

5. Do you envision robots becoming a standard in hotel services? And are there any other innovations that you are exploring or planning to launch?

The shift towards automation and AI in hospitality is accelerating, and it’s likely that robots will become increasingly common in hotels. While robots may become a standard feature, their application will vary based on individual hotel needs. At Moxy, we are enthusiastic about the potential of using automation and AI to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. Alongside our current robotic initiatives, we are exploring other innovations such as advanced smart room technologies, data analytics for personalised experiences, and sustainable operational practices. Our aim is to remain at the cutting edge of hospitality trends, continuously introducing fresh and exciting elements that align with Moxy’s innovative and playful brand identity.