Latest news with #HCN
National Post
09-07-2025
- Business
- National Post
Hotel Communication Network Named One of Canada's Top 20 Moonshot Ventures™ of 2025
Article content Keiretsu Forum Canada recognizes the world leader in AI Concierge powered hotel room tablets as a company most likely to achieve 'unicorn' status Article content OTTAWA, Ontario — Hotel Communication Network (HCN), the world leader in AI Concierge powered guestroom tablets, has been named one of Canada's Top 20 Moonshot Ventures™ of 2025, an exclusive honor presented by the National Angel Capital Organization (NACO), a Government of Canada agency established to encourage innovation and support capital raising for pre IPO companies. Article content Article content The announcement follows a closed-door showcase at the NACO Summit where Canada's most promising early-stage companies were unveiled to an elite audience of investors and innovation leaders. Selected through a rigorous nomination and evaluation process, the Moonshot represents the country's boldest, most visionary ventures in sectors spanning AI, cleantech, healthtech, space, and more. HCN was nominated by Keiretsu Forum Canada, recognizing its pioneering work in revolutionizing hotel communications and enhancing the digital guest journey. Article content Leveraging advances in AI technologies, HCN developed the first human-looking AI Concierge persona capable of addressing guests individually with full voice integration and providing voice-activated access to all guest services during their stay at HCN partner hotels. To make this technological achievement even more compelling, HCN's new ad-supported revenue model makes the entire platform highly subsidized with a possible revenue share for hotels. Article content 'Being selected as one of Canada's Moonshot Ventures is a major milestone for HCN,' said Kevin Bidner, Founder and CEO of Hotel Communication Network. 'This recognition from NACO and its national network underscores our commitment to transforming the hospitality experience through cutting-edge, guest-focused technology.' Article content The Top 20 Moonshots were chosen from more than 100 nominations submitted by NACO member organizations—including Canada's top angel groups, accelerators, and incubators. From this curated pool, 23 companies were selected to present on the Moonshots Stage™ at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa during the NACO Summit 2025. The showcase offered each founder a TED-style platform to tell their story to a handpicked audience of angel investors, venture capitalists, and corporate leaders. Article content 'These founders represent the bold ideas, entrepreneurial drive, and global ambition within Canada's innovation economy,' said Claudio Rojas, CEO of NACO, in a prepared statement. 'We are proud to spotlight companies like HCN that are not only driving technological advancement but redefining what's possible in their industries.' Article content 'We're proud to have HCN in our portfolio. With strong backing from highly sophisticated investors spanning North America, Europe, and Asia, the company has built impressive momentum, positioning it to become a truly global player,' said Ozan Isinak, President of Keiretsu Forum Canada. With over $190 million collectively raised by this year's Moonshot cohort, the companies represent a cross-section of Canada's emerging innovation economy. Ventures hail from across the country, with HCN proudly representing Ontario's contribution to global travel and hospitality innovation. Article content 'We are honored that Keiretsu Forum Canada — part of the world's largest angel investor network — believes so strongly in HCN,' Bidner said. 'We are grateful that they recommended us to NACO as 'the most likely to achieve unicorn status' in the travel and media sector.' Article content Hotel Communication Network (HCN) is the hospitality industry's leading provider of in-room guest engagement and monetization platforms. Following its acquisition of Crave Interactive, HCN now operates the largest global network of smart hotel tablets and mobile solutions, seamlessly integrating guest services, hotel operations, and contextual media delivery. The combined platform delivers personalized digital concierge services, revenue-generating programmatic advertising, and strategic brand activations at scale. HCN supports major hotel brands across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, offering a turnkey solution that enhances the guest experience while unlocking new revenue streams for hotel operators. For more information, visit Article content Article content Article content Article content Media Contact: Article content Barb Worcester Article content Article content Article content
Hospitality Net
10-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Technology Breakthrough: First Human-Looking AI Concierge Now Available to Every Hotel Guest Exclusively on the HCN In-Room Tablet Platform
CHICAGO — Hotel Communication Network (HCN), the world leader in guestroom tablets for hotels and resorts, is transforming the way operators are driving revenues and engaging with guests. Taking advantage of advances in AI technologies, HCN has developed an industry breakthrough by creating the first human-looking AI Concierge persona capable of addressing guests individually with full voice integration and providing voice-activated access to all guest services during their stay at HCN partner hotels. To make this technological achievement even more compelling, HCN's new ad-supported revenue model makes the entire platform highly subsidized with a possible revenue share for hotels. Hoteliers, particularly those in the 4-star category, are facing smaller margins and increased competition. They are desperately seeking more revenue and a way of increasing guest satisfaction, especially if it differentiates them from their competitors. The HCN AI Concierge Tablet + ad strategy solves these problems. Ads enable hoteliers to get this first-of-its-kind amenity at a highly subsidized rate (or possibly no cost), plus earn a share of the ad revenue to increase bottom-line profit. We are rolling out this platform globally with one of worlds' biggest brands, and we invite the rest of the industry to take advantage of this compelling opportunity. Kevin Bidner, HCN CEO HCN will debut its all-in-one, ad-supported, human-looking AI Concierge tablet in Booth #2803 at HITEC Indianapolis, to be held June 16-19 at the Indiana Convention Center. Peer-reviewed research shows that the average hotel guest spends 3.5 active waking hours per day in the room, creating the ideal time to deliver brand messaging to guests. While serving as a personal concierge, HCN tablets are actually a marketing engine in each guestroom, providing hoteliers with a highly targeted communication platform capable of integrating loyalty programs for deep personalization. This is a game changer, since the tablets can integrate with hotel property-management systems and other guestroom technologies, such as blinds, thermostats, roomservice, housekeeping and more. Because of this deep integration, tablet usage rates often exceed 90%, compared to QR codes and mobile apps which often average less than 20% utilization. NEW! Tablet Content Transfers to Guests' Mobile Phones HCN's in-room tablets are only the starting point. With millions of guests per day using this digital marketplace, HCN has added a mobile platform that mirrors in-room tablet content to guests' mobile phones. This enables every traveler to take the AI Concierge with them wherever they roam to serve as a personal assistant throughout their stay. HCN has been working for this moment for many years: the convergence of technologies that makes tablets an invaluable asset with a breakthrough conversational AI Concierge for every guest with nothing to download, provided right on the tablet , Bidner said. At the same time, the advertising model is allowing us to provide this service at a low to no cost to the hotels, even with the potential for profitable rev-share. It's a true win-win. Terry Donnelly, HCN Chief Revenue Officer and architect of the advertising and ecommerce revenue platform, said the impact and reach of brand messaging for hoteliers on the tablet is tremendous. HCN's messaging capabilities ensure that 100% of guests see the promotional content created by our hotel partners , Donnelly said. With our AI Concierge capabilities, the ability to serve guests comprehensively is now accessible for every hotel. Guests can access any amenity in the hotel, buy tickets for any local event, tour or attraction, and maximize every minute of their stay with exactly the kind of content and services they desire. Driving Revenue, Loyalty Point Redemption With the HCN ad-supported model, hotels receive a state-of-the-art AI Concierge platform that will grow with guests' needs. The multilingual platform can motivate travelers to become a loyalty program member or encourage existing members to redeem points and access the benefits they have earned while staying at the hotel. In addition, the hotel property can promote revenue-generating programs, services and amenities, driving upsell and cross sell opportunities. Travel is an $11 trillion market , Bidner said. HCN has turned its tablets into a global marketing medium capable of reaching millions of hotel guests with highly personalized offerings tailored to their profile with the hotel. The return on investment is instantly positive. If a hotel sold just one more dinner, spa treatment, scuba lesson, or cabana each day, and then multiplied that across every property, the additional revenue potential per year would have a significant, measurable, and durable impact. Hotel brands that don't want to adopt an ad-supported model can still achieve a healthy and immediate return on investment with HCN's traditional fee-paid tablet model, Bidner said. Even if the hotel decides to remain ad free, they can generate far more revenue with HCN tablets than without them , he said. For example, by using the tablet to opt out of housekeeping — a program that HCN calls 'Guest Choice' — that alone will offset the cost of the tablet. Each opt-out saves the hotel $15-$30 per room; the cost of an HCN tablet is significantly less than that. In addition, each HCN tablet replaces the need for peripheral room equipment — the phone, TV remote, clock/radio, and smart room controls are rolled into each device, along with interactive and AI enabled features (such as direct in-room messaging/marketing, hotel and local restaurant meal delivery, AI-based itinerary planning, merchandising, event communication, guest surveys, interactive city guides, local shops, and early/late check out), to give guests the best in-room experience possible. To meet AiMe (pronounced Amy) and discover a radically new way to drive revenues and guest engagement, stop by Booth #2803 at HITEC Indy. About Hotel Communication Network (HCN) Hotel Communication Network (HCN) is the hospitality industry's leading provider of in-room guest engagement and monetization platforms. Following its acquisition of Crave Interactive, HCN now operates the largest global network of smart hotel tablets and mobile solutions, seamlessly integrating guest services, hotel operations, and contextual media delivery. The combined platform delivers personalized digital concierge services, revenue-generating programmatic advertising, and strategic brand activations at scale. HCN supports major hotel brands across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, offering a turnkey solution that enhances the guest experience while unlocking new revenue streams for hotel operators. For more information, visit Barbara Worcester
Hospitality Net
03-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Hotel Communication Network Acquires Crave Interactive, Cementing Global Leadership in Hotel Guestroom Technology
CHICAGO—June 3, 2025—Hotel Communication Network (HCN), a leading provider of AI-powered in-room guest engagement solutions, announces the acquisition of Crave Interactive, a UK-based innovator specializing in digital guest experiences for luxury hotels. This strategic move positions HCN as a dominant force in the global hospitality technology sector, expanding its reach across the four- and five-star hotel markets. The deal closed today for an undisclosed amount. Crave Interactive, established in 2009, has built a reputation for delivering high-quality in-room tablets and AI-driven guest services, catering to an elite clientele that includes MGM Resorts, Fairmont, and Hyatt. Their platform facilitates seamless guest interactions, from room service orders to spa bookings, enhancing the overall guest experience. HCN's acquisition of Crave Interactive is a calculated step towards integrating complementary technologies and expertise and expanding HCN's growing ad network, which allows hoteliers to acquire the substantial capabilities of this powerful guest engagement platform at greatly reduced rates through HCN's newly introduced ad-subsidized model. HCN is combining can't-miss proactive digital signage with global brand advertising that pleases guests and creates new sources of revenue for hotels. HCN and Crave tablets are set to transform the hotel experience globally with a true AI breakthrough. A multilingual human-looking AI Concierge is introduced to each guest via the tablet, becoming their personal assistant, a helping hand with hotel communication, a city navigator, and an itinerary builder. With ad revenues supporting this innovation, the technology is now within reach of every hotel globally. HCN offers hotels a new level of personalization and service for every guest on a mass scale. This acquisition is more than a merger of technologies; it's a fusion of visions aimed at redefining the guest experience. By combining our strengths, we will deliver unparalleled value to hoteliers and guests alike. Kevin Bidner, CEO of HCN HCN views this acquisition as a significant consolidation in the hospitality tech space. The combined company will have operations and installations in 25 countries with both tablet and mobile applications. With this acquisition, HCN has created a truly global solution for an industry seeking to modernize their in-room services and guest experience strategies. For more information about HCN and its expanded suite of services, visit Barbara Worcester
Hospitality Net
21-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Global Media Co. Launches Innovative Beverage Alcohol Sampling Program for Hotels & Resorts at eBev 2025
CHICAGO — Next week at eBev 2025, Hotel Communications Network (HCN), a global hotel media company built on tablets installed in tens of thousands of hotel rooms, will reveal an innovative way to get beverage brands into consumers' hands at the moment they check in to their hotel. Via a new Sampling Program, HCN will introduce a new way beverage marketers and hotel operators can collaborate. The result is an increase in revenues and a beverage experience that will be forever imprinted on travelers' memories. It's well known that one of the most powerful branding opportunities is discovering your new favorite drink while traveling. Fruity tropical cocktails on a sunny beach. Your first Manhattan in Manhattan. A spritz on the Amalfi coast. All of these drinks have become globally successful by their association to consumers' favorite travel memories. But beverage alcohol brands have found it difficult and costly to provide samples of these libations to guests at leading U.S. hotels due to restrictive regulations — until now. HCN CEO Kevin Bidner Produced by the Beverage Marketing Association, eBev 2025 will be held May 28 to 30 at the Conrad Indianapolis Hotel. In a presentation titled 'Keep on Winning in the Real World … in Real-Time,' to be held Wednesday, May 28th at 4:25 p.m., Bidner will explain the new HCN ad-supported tablet model for beverage brands, advertising partners, and hotels. Here's How It Works: Upon check-in at a hotel, a guest is asked if he or she would like to sample the hotel's signature cocktail before heading to the room. After a long drive or flight (often fraught with delays), a complimentary beverage would be a perfect start to the stay. Without having to search out the lounge, the front desk agent hands the traveler a delicious libation or advises the guest of a free drink awaiting them in their room, compliments of the hotel's in-room tablet provider, HCN. The front-desk attendant also presents a coupon for 20% off a second signature cocktail served at the hotel bar. From the first sip, this gesture of hospitality makes a lasting impression of the beverage alcohol brand and the hotel on the consumer. The drink is now imprinted on the guest, transporting them back to their unforgettable vacation with every taste. And, the hotel is forever imprinted as the place they discovered their new favorite drink. Each time the traveler enjoys that drink, he or she is magically transported to memories of cherished travels. Beverage 'Lovemark' One of the primary goals of any beverage brand is to have its target audience fall in love with it. There is no better time to imprint a 'lovemark' on consumers than upon arrival at a hotel. Travel is difficult, and arrival at your destination is a cause for celebration. By connecting your brand to that moment of arrival and celebration, the brand can build a strong emotional connection with consumers. This new hotel partnership program from HCN is the most cost-effective way we have seen to get samples into the hands of traveling consumers, creating the opportunity for durable loyalty to that brand. Seth Hillstrom, Executive Director of the Beverage Marketing Association, an organization that unites the industry's leading minds to address the future of beverage marketing As a third-party media company that is already operating within the hotel, HCN is well positioned to execute and manage sampling programs as part of a 360 degree media buy in leading hotels. Through our in-room tablet platform, we can deliver the sample, promote the brand to 100% of guests staying at the hotel, and encourage redemption of a coupon for repeat purchase of the brand as a means of tracking effectiveness. The average person spends 3.5 waking hours a day in a hotel room; that is the ideal time to send value-added service messaging to guests. There is no other media platform that offers as much potential for guest engagement and the control of brand messaging. Terry Donnelly, Chief Revenue Officer of HCN Interactive Bedside Platform HCN is using its platform to improve guest communication with the hotel, connectedness to the city, brand awareness for advertisers, and features an AI concierge for every room. Unlike mobile apps and QR codes that struggle to get 15% adoption, HCN tablets often show more than 90% engagement with consumers because they can be integrated into guestroom technology and hotel brand loyalty platforms. We hope everyone attending eBev 2025 will learn how this sampling program can serve up profits for everyone involved , Donnelly said. There is no other technology that offers as much revenue and marketing potential to reach affluent travel consumers. HCN is seeking leading beverage brands in 2025 to form partnerships with hotels and participate in its Sampling Program. If interested, please contact [email protected]. About The Hotel Communication Network (HCN) Founded in 2008, with headquarters in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, The Hotel Communication Network has built on years of research and development to provide an innovative high-value guest amenity that keeps each guest connected to their hotel, city and each other. For more information, visit About The Beverage Marketing Assn. Beverage Marketing Association (BMA) is the global community for beverage marketers, retailers, distributors, and technology partners. An industry-driven collective that exists for the greater good, BMA is a trusted resource fostering collaboration, enabling new efficiencies, and championing the smart use of technology to drive growth. From their annual eBev event to their weekly newsletter, and renowned eBev global interview series. . .BMA is the industry hub for advancing strategy and building meaningful connections that drive us forward. About eBev 2025 eBev is the premier gathering of the brightest minds in beverage marketing. Since 2011, it has united rising stars and industry leaders from brands, retail, and technology partners to explore what truly drives consumer connection and conversion. Through keynotes, panels, and curated conversations, eBev dives deep into the trends, data, and strategies shaping the future of how we reach, motivate, and win share of heart from today's consumers. For more info visit Barbara Worcester
Associated Press
13-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
HCN: Revolutionizing Travel With AI Concierge
HCN, The Hotel Communication Network, is revolutionizing travel with AI Concierge technology for guests. With a Hilton global agreement in place, HCN is on a high-growth trajectory and offering investment opportunities. OTTAWA - May 12, 2025 ( NEWMEDIAWIRE ) - HCN, The Hotel Communication Network, with its remarkable innovation in guest communication technology, is now in high-growth mode. HCN is revolutionizing travel, one of the world's largest industries, with the biggest innovation in several generations, an AI Concierge for every guest. Accessible on in-room tablets and seamlessly transferred to mobile devices, it delivers personalized service, enhancing the guest experience both within the hotel and throughout the city. In its pilot phase, HCN has deployed its solution in some of the largest and most prestigious Hiltons in the country. Now, with a Hilton global agreement in hand, HCN is on a growth trajectory that will sweep the industry; with an accelerated path to IPO. Powering this growth is a 'Free to Hotel with Revshare', now rolling out the no-cost tablets to the 1,000,000-room Hilton chain, worldwide, with other brands sure to follow. 'After many years of preparation, HCN is now at its inflection point, a great moment for the investors who helped us get here! It's also a great time to join as a new investor in this exciting journey, as HCN conquers one of the world's largest industries,' says Kevin Bidner, CEO. Viral technology rollouts of this magnitude are 'once-in-a-lifetime' opportunities. HCN is at the 'skyrocket' point, making this a more than exciting investment. This is confirmed by HCN's large community of some of the top pre-IPO funds and investor groups who have joined HCN on the journey. Take the first step, join us at The Money Show and get a firsthand view of this outstanding opportunity. For inquiries and more information about HCN's transformative solutions, please contact: Email: [email protected] Phone: 312.998.5620 Website: View the original release on
