Mobile Wallet keys simplify access for EVT Hotels & Resorts

Partnering with Assa Abloy, EVT Hotels & Resorts has begun to roll out mobile Wallet across its properties. 

The new technology enables guests to check in and receive their room key on their smartphone or smartwatch. EVT is the first multi-brand hotel group in Australia to launch the capability across its portfolio. 

Read the latest edition of AccomNews HERE

Andrew Turner, EVT Group General Manager of Technology and Digital, said introducing Wallet Keys would simplify check in and improve the overall guest experience.

“We’re rolling out Wallet Service using Assa Abloy’s Vostio cloud-based key platform, which integrates directly with our Guest Experience Platform. This creates a seamless experience for guests, from digital check-in through to room access and check-out.” 

Initially, mobile Wallet has been rolled out at QT Sydney, with rollout across EVT’s QT, Atura, LyLo and Rydges properties scheduled over the next year. The shift to mobile Wallet is in step with evolving guest behaviour, with many travellers embracing technology to simplify their journey. Mobile wallets are already widely used for payments, tickets, and boarding passes, and mobile keys are a natural next step. 

“Assa Abloy has been a long-term partner of EVT and they are a recognised leader in the digital key space. Their technology and expertise made them the natural choice as we continued to evolve the guest experience through seamless, mobile-first solutions,” Mr Turner said. 

For EVT, the implementation of digital keys has been a smooth transition. “Our partners were on site during the initial launch to help ensure a seamless experience for guests and to support our teams throughout implementation,” Mr Turner said. 

Related AccomNews story: Smart rooms, smart savings: Energy management for enhanced profits

Mobile Wallet offers a convenient access solution for both accommodation operators and guests. For operators, reliance on plastic keys is reduced, along with the associated costs and risks when keys are lost or damaged. Waste is also reduced, as plastic keys do not need to be disposed of. 

Digital keys also offer convenience for guests, who don’t need to remember to bring their key with them each time they leave their room. 

At both check-in and check-out, mobile Wallet allows guests to bypass the front desk, saving time for front desk staff and the guest. EVT team members are available to deliver memorable moments by taking the friction out of the check-in process and engage with guests. Human-centred hospitality remains a core focus. 

Similarly, digital keys have not replaced physical keys.

“Digital and physical keys operate in parallel, allowing guests to choose the option that best suits their needs. For those guests who prefer a traditional room key, we continue to make this available,” Mr Turner said. 

Importantly, guests do not need to install any apps or software to use Assa Abloy digital keys during their stay. Guests receive their digital key via a browser or guest portal, then add it to their smartphone’s digital wallet. The same digital key can be used by guests to access the property’s facilities, and if a guest chooses to extend their stay, the digital key can be automatically updated without the guest visiting the front desk. 

Mr Turner and EVT staff have witnessed the advantages of mobile Wallet firsthand. “The response has been extremely positive, with strong guest uptake across our participating properties. 

“Our teams appreciate the evolution too. By streamlining access and reducing administrative touchpoints, our teams can focus on what they do best: delivering exceptional guest experiences. 

“Going forward, technologies such as Wallet keys and mobile check-in also enable us to re-think how we design guest spaces.”