CANADA. HMSHost has joined forces with SoftBank Robotics America (SBRA) to launch a new pilot programme with Pepper the humanoid robot at Oakland International Airport.
From 23 January, Pepper will be deployed at HMSHost’s Pyramid Ale Taproom in Terminal 2, offering assistance, menu recommendations and directions to travellers.
Utilising dedicated applications built specifically for HMSHost, Pepper will invite airport passengers to visit Pyramid Ale Taproom, offering them guidance on food and drink selections based on their personal taste preferences, while detailing Pyramid’s award-winning craft beers.
Through an interactive map displayed on Pepper’s screen, the robot can also help travellers find their gate, restrooms, exits and more. Pepper will proactively field these questions from airport visitors, enabling wait staff to focus on their customers.
HMSHost Vice President of Innovation Jim Schmitz said: “At HMSHost, we are always working to identify the next opportunity to elevate the guest experience at airports. Through constant innovation, we aim to engage with travellers and assist them on their journey. We are very excited to introduce them to Pepper as part of these efforts.”
Pepper, who is 4-foot-tall, has large expressive eyes and lifelike movements and gestures. Pepper’s pilot with HMSHost continues the robot’s deployment with national and independent retailers and restaurants throughout North America. Pepper has brought value to its partners, generating increased foot traffic and reinventing the customer experience, said SoftBank Robotics America.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAu-3eEVAio
SoftBank Robotics America Vice President and General Manager Steve Carlin commented: “HMSHost is leading the charge to innovate the airport experience. With this programme, travellers from all over the world will have the opportunity to meet and interact with Pepper, getting a taste of the future of hospitality and travel.”
Pepper joined Costa Cruises staff onboard the Costa Diadema and sister ship AIDAprima in spring 2016.
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 company co-organises the annual Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) Conference & Awards. 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 2017 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) Conference & Awards, hosted by Greater Toronto Airports Authority, will take place in Toronto on 21-23 June.
