New Orleans hotel streamlines, simplifies connectivity

The Mercantile Hotel New Orleans implemented a next-generation guest Wi-Fi service through the implementation of Hotspot 2.0 from GlobalReach Technology. An all-suites boutique property located in the historic Warehouse/Arts District of New Orleans, the Mercantile Hotel New Orleans' adoption of Hotspot 2.0 gives guests an automatic connection to hotel Wi-Fi with a secure authentication process that mirrors the ease of use of today's cell phones.

Guests can connect multiple personal devices by provisioning each device with a Hotspot 2.0 credential once with a process that takes just seconds. The Mercantile's guests can simply scan a QR code at reception or on the in-room Angie virtual assistant device present in all 90 luxury suites. This then directs them to the GlobalReach online signup server in order to instantly download a secure profile. Once the profile is downloaded, a guest's phone, laptop or tablet will be automatically connecting to the hotel's Wi-Fi service, eliminating the need to remember passwords or log in again.

“Since implementing GlobalReach Technology's Hotspot 2.0 alongside our new Angie Hospitality in-room guest assistants, we have seen a 70 to 80 percent reduction in Wi-Fi support calls, which has freed our staff to have other conversations with guests that lead to enhanced value and satisfaction,” said Joshua Herron, director of technology and experience at Innisfree Hotels, which oversees the Mercantile Hotel New Orleans. “These two solutions have allowed us to substantially improve guest loyalty and satisfaction and have experienced nearly 100 percent positive feedback on the property.”

Seamlessly integrated with the Mercantile's existing Ruckus Zone Director, Ruckus Wi-Fi Access Points and Deep Blue network in a matter of hours, Hotspot 2.0 was also simultaneously added to the property's guestroom assistant. This provides each guest with private and secure access to their own in-room network.

With regard to the recent implementation, Chris Bruce, GlobalReach Technology managing director, said: "Today's hyper-connected world means that guests need and demand instant Wi-Fi access in order to fully enjoy their hotel stay experience. We are honored to provide the Mercantile Hotel New Orleans with the ability to eliminate barriers to online access such as the need for landing pages, passwords or prompts to re-register a device.