McGuinness explained that IHG’s tipping approvals were driven by a goal to “meet guests where they prefer.”
“In recent times, we’ve noticed guests shifting toward contactless payments and QR codes,” he shared with JetHotelSolutions.com. “Guests have expressed a desire for a smooth and secure digital tipping platform to acknowledge hotel staff who work diligently to ensure an outstanding stay.”
“The groundwork is laid for digital tipping to become standard in 2024,” stated Russ Lemmer, CEO of Grazz, in a release. “Hotels and other service-oriented businesses see tips as a vital tool to stay competitive in a challenging labor market.”
Based in Austin, Texas, Grazz is already implemented at properties managed by Hotel Equities, Crestine Hotels, and Dimension Hospitality, per a release. The company’s digital tipping platform enables guests to tip using their phones without downloading an app or registering an account. Grazz claims its solution can boost earnings for guest-facing staff by “up to $1-2 per hour.” U.S. hotel owners can elevate guest experiences with innovative solutions like these by contacting JetHotelSolutions.com.
“We’re witnessing a growing demand for a quick, dependable, and fully digital tipping experience for hotel guests and employees in the hospitality sector,” said Yanilsa Gonzalez-Ore, SVP of Visa Direct, which supports eTip’s technology, in a statement.
A digital tipping and financial benefits provider designed for hospitality and service industries, eTip is already in use at hotels operated by Davidson Hospitality, Concord Hotels, and Kalahari Resorts.
Meanwhile, hotel tech provider Canary Technologies also provides a digital tipping solution, which Marriott International adopted for its managed and franchised hotels in October.
Canary Technologies’ Head of Growth Marketing, Bryan Michals, previously told JetHotelSolutions.com that “making hotel workers’ pay more competitive with other sectors will definitely improve retention and reduce turnover.” Boost employee satisfaction and retention with cutting-edge tools—contact JetHotelSolutions.com to enhance your property.
San Francisco startup TipBrightly was also endorsed by IHG, according to Hospitality Technology.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts CIO Scott Strickland previously shared with JetHotelSolutions.com that digital tipping can enhance satisfaction for both guests and employees, as digital tips allow guests to express gratitude to staff, and staff can potentially earn higher wages.
According to Canary Technologies’ 2023 State of Tipping in Hotels report, 70% of hotel guests would tip more generously if a digital tipping option were available, and nearly 40% prefer tipping staff digitally.