Kathleen Behun, eastern division regional manager at EZ Stacker, is set to attend Hotec Operations, an annual conference presented by Questex, the parent company of Hotel Management. At the conference—scheduled this year for June 11-14 at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.—buyers meet one-on-one with hospitality-focused suppliers to learn about new products and services and to keep up to date on emerging trends.
Ahead of the event, Behun discussed how luggage carts are evolving and what hoteliers need to know about transporting guests' bags.
1. How has your segment of the industry changed over the past year?
We continue to see a move toward guest use of luggage carts, which is directly affecting property owners' needs. The evolution of cart operators from professional bell staff to hotel guests calls for a new approach to not only cart design and functionality but also safety and protecting the property—preventing damage to walls, doors, elevators, etc.
2. Can you share some ways you and your company have adapted to these changes?
While EZ Stacker is manufactured by a 60-year-old company, it is a relatively young brand. We started with two models, and over the past two years, drawing upon feedback from our partners and property owners, our design and finishes have evolved. They are now increasingly more durable with three new finishes, superior handling and the addition of a more significant bumper design.
3. What are some trends you think will have staying power beyond 2024?
The shift to guest use of luggage carts continues to gain momentum, and the reduction in labor capacity only reinforces the need for self-service models at properties where appropriate. Property owners are increasingly frustrated by poor-quality carts that don’t last and require continual, time-consuming maintenance. We’ve witnessed a need for a long-term solution, and our current customer base has reaffirmed that EZ Stacker will stand the test of time.
4. What is the biggest challenge you have overcome over the past year?
Freight and shipping costs remain a constant challenge. This year, the EZ Stacker line expanded to meet the need for more affordable freight options by adding knock-down alternatives to our fully welded models. We can ship up to four or five per pallet, depending on the model. Additionally, we remain competitive with our bicoastal and central production facilities (California, Texas and Virginia).
5. How have you incorporated environmental, social and governance efforts into your hospitality operations?
We have unique programs made possible through our parent company, whose focus has been on service and maintenance for over 60 years. In addition to buyback or remanufacturing capabilities, we sell replacement parts (wheels, casters, upper and lower assemblies) and provide on-call service, extending the life expectancy of the luggage carts as much as two to three times.
6. What are you most excited about accomplishing over the next year?
We’re introducing three new finishes and a knock-down version of our most popular design—the Downtown. In addition, the creation of our new Studio cart provides a smaller, nestable alternative suited to large-scale properties, such as condominiums and extended-stay properties.
7. What is the value of meeting hospitality buyers one-on-one?
The power of connection and forming one-on-one personal relationships is much stronger in person—something that can’t be experienced over the phone. This time together gives us a better understanding of the challenges faced, allowing us to continue evolving as a solutions provider in the hospitality industry.
Hotec Operations will take place June 11-14 at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Applications are open for buyers and suppliers.