USA. HMSHost is using a four-foot-tall humanoid robot called Pepper to attract and engage travellers and encourage them to download the Host2Coast dining app in selected North American airports.
The free mobile app offers travellers the ability to find the nearest food & beverage outlets, and view operating hours and menu information. At some locations, travellers can pre-order and pay for their meal directly through the app.
The HMSHost initiative is supported by Pepper Promoter technology from SoftBank Robotics America.
“HMSHost leads our industry in bringing innovation and one-of-a-kind experiences to travellers,” said HMSHost Chief Operating Officer Jeff Yablun. “Pepper Promoter gives HMSHost a unique and efficient way to engage with our guests and make them aware of new resources, such as the Host2Coast mobile app, that help enhance their travel dining experience.”
Pepper’s airport tour starts at Chicago O’Hare International, with Seattle-Tacoma International and other locations to follow. The robot will greet travellers, inform them about the Host2Coast app, and encourage them to download it by having them enter their phone number on her screen. The traveller will receive a text message which will include a link to download the Host2Coast app, depending on their mobile device’s operating system.
Pepper Promoter will send travellers off with an air guitar dance routine, leaving them with a memorable experience before their flight, HMSHost said.
Later this summer, Host2Coast will expand its pre-order and pay option to include nearly 60 casual dining locations across more than 12 airports. Host2Coast is available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Travellers are encouraged to share their experiences with @HMSHost using the hashtag #Host2Coast.
Earlier this year, HMSHost launched a pilot programme with SoftBank Robotics America to bring Pepper to her first North American airport location at Oakland International Airport Terminal 2 Pyramid Ale Taproom.
NOTE: The Moodie Davitt Report also publishes The Foodie Report, the world’s only media focused on airport (and other travel-related) food & beverage. The Foodie Report e-Newsletter is published every two weeks and The Foodie Report e-Zine every month.
Please send all news of food & beverage outlet openings, together with images, menus, video etc to Martin@MoodieDavittReport.com to ensure unrivalled global exposure.
The company also organises the annual Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) Conference & Awards.
