A new digital key solution called Accor Key is being rolled out by Accor Group.

Part of the company’s strategy to provide a contactless guest journey, Accor Key gives guests access to their rooms, meeting rooms and floor via a “room key” they receive virtually through a dedicated app. The virtual room key is activated when the guest checks in and deactivated automatically when the guest departs. The program is being delivered through a partnership with STAYmyway.

Following successful pilot programs in North America, Europe and Asia, the roll-out will start in all new Accor hotels opening this year. After that, it will extend to existing properties. It is Accor Group’s objective to equip 500 hotels with Accor Key in 2021, and have the program running in at least 50 percent of all rooms across its network within the next five years.

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of ‘Accor Key’ within our entire network,” said Patrick Mendes, chief commercial officer, Accor, in charge of sales, marketing, distribution and loyalty. “Making contactless and seamless guest experiences a reality is a priority for Accor. Accor Key is a great example of how the Group can build solutions and deploy them efficiently in all Accor operating countries.”

“We are honoured to be working with such an innovative company at such a critical time in our industry,” said Faustino Fernandez, founder and CEO, STAYmyway. “A recent Deloitte study shows that 60 percent of travellers are more likely to stay at a hotel that allowed contactless check-in and the ability to use a smartphone as a room key—16 percent even say it’s a ‘must-have’. The demand is even higher for frequent travellers.”

About STAYmyway

Based in Europe, STAYmyway’s mobile solution includes features such as ID/passport verification, selfie match, and virtual registration card as well as the digital key solution.