Worldwide: Avani Hotels & Resorts is rolling out its AvaniSHIELD programme across all 32 of the brand’s properties, with primary initiatives driven by the adoption of new technology.
The programme will see the entire Avani portfolio gradually adopt a range of heightened hygiene and sanitising standards in the wake of COVID-19.
Future guests will rely on mobile registration cards to check in pre-arrival, and will be able to settle bills via an online payment system prior to check out.
A live chat solution enabling direct contact with the hotel’s concierge will be launching soon. It will allow for guests to browse menus, order in-room dining, and book off-property experiences.
Restaurants will also provide a digital menu, which can be accessed via a QR code on a smartphone.
To practice physical distancing, tables will be spaced out and walk-in customers will be asked for their contact details to facilitate contact tracing.
All staff will be relying on hand gestures to greet guests. A dedicated AvaniSHIELD agent will be responsible for monitoring the team, ensuring that health and safety guidelines are upheld. The role will also involve conducting training sessions for the Avani team.
Avani has been working with Ecolab to ensure that materials and measures adhere to Ecolab, WHO and EPA standards. Some of the hygiene technology that’s being introduced across the properties include:
- Cu+ copper protection materials – high touch surfaces such as door handles and elevator buttons will be covered with anti-microbial copper protection film.
- Ultraviolet C sterilisation – Front office will be utilising UVC sterilisation boxes to disinfect key cards, stationery and other high touch objects. Guests can request a complimentary mobile device disinfecting service. In addition, the housekeeping team has begun testing a cleaning method with UVC light as an extra layer of protection after cleaning which is proven to kill germs and bacteria.
- HEPA-grade bio filter – select properties will be adding HEPA-grade air purifiers in the standard guest room and gym cleaning process. These can remove airborne viruses, bacteria and allergens.
- Disinfectant of incoming objects – all hotels will also be setting up disinfectant processes to sanitise incoming luggage, boxes and supplies.
All guest rooms will be sealed for 24 hours as a mandatory precaution before these rooms are allocated to guests.
Avani is also looking into in-room workout gear and training videos.
Javier Pardo, vice president of operations for Avani Hotels & Resorts, said: “Our life has been impacted, but our spirit to travel will never fade. The implementation of new health and safety standards adds an additional layer of protection by bringing peace of mind to Avani guests and team members, as well as emphasising our commitment to ensuring health and safety, without compromising on service quality.”
“Not stopping at these measures, we are currently reviewing additional initiatives focusing on rebuilding the environment and the health of the planet threatened by climate change, such as our zero-trash programme and carbon footprint reduction measures,” he added.
