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Learn how in-room entertainment is being transformed for boutique hotels with innovative, guest-focused solutions. As the hospitality industry evol...
October 23, 2024 – 5 min read
As the hospitality industry evolves, so do the expectations of guests, particularly regarding in-room entertainment. Kim Twiggs from DIRECTV HOSPITALITY, a valued vendor partner of BLLA, shared valuable insights into how the company is transforming the in-room experience for boutique hotel guests and staying ahead of emerging trends.
In-room entertainment is a key factor for consumers when choosing a hotel, with 92% of guests considering in-room television important. Recognizing this, DIRECTV HOSPITALITY enhances the in-room experience through its Advanced Entertainment Platform (AEP), which provides a comprehensive entertainment solution. This platform includes live satellite channels, a vast On Demand library, and access to app-based programming, all while allowing hotels to customize the Home Screen with their logo and a welcome message. “We also subsidize equipment costs, helping boutique hotels deliver a premium entertainment experience without the premium price tag,” Twiggs explains.
With the rise of streaming services and on-demand content, Twiggs highlights that DIRECTV HOSPITALITY stays attuned to industry trends by conducting ongoing research. “Our research shows that 87% of guests watch live TV in the hotel room, while 72% enjoy premium channels and streaming services,” she notes. This understanding is crucial for hoteliers aiming to match the at-home entertainment experience that guests desire. The insights gathered enable hotel property owners to make strategic decisions about their in-room offerings, ultimately enhancing guest satisfaction.
Twiggs further expands on what they’ve found to be trending among guests, noting the rising popularity of women’s sports content this year. For example, data from DIRECTV reveals that ratings for the 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament more than doubled compared to the previous year, indicating a growing interest in sports among viewers. Additionally, business travelers are showing a stronger appetite for sports content than other segments, with a significant percentage seeking access to sports networks.
DIRECTV HOSPITALITY differentiates its services to cater specifically to boutique and independent hotels. Beyond entertainment, the AEP’s Property Information App allows hotels to showcase amenities like restaurant hours, spa services, and fitness center details digitally, effectively eliminating the need for printed materials. “This capability streamlines information for guests and enhances their overall experience,” Twiggs states. Additionally, the Advanced Entertainment Platform Partner Program empowers hoteliers to customize their entertainment offerings, further distinguishing their properties in a competitive market.
As guests increasingly seek a more personalized hotel experience, Twiggs emphasizes the importance of empowering guests through technology. “Guests want to use their devices to enhance their stay—whether it’s texting for room service or scanning a QR code for menus,” she explains. However, she cautions boutique hoteliers to ensure that technology enhances the guest experience rather than complicating it. “It’s about finding the right balance to meet guest needs without overwhelming them with unnecessary tech.”
The changing preferences of millennial and Gen Z travelers also play a significant role in how hotels approach in-room entertainment. “As remote work becomes commonplace, more travelers are blending business with leisure, requiring hotels to provide a balanced approach to guest room entertainment,” Twiggs notes. With a focus on digital nomads and bleisure (business and leisure) travelers, boutique hotels that offer robust entertainment options are well-positioned to attract this demographic.
Moreover, Twiggs highlights that “bleisure travelers and digital nomads are much more active on the road than other guests,” with both groups staying “roughly 50% more nights than other hotel guests.” This emphasizes the necessity for hotels to provide entertainment that aligns with their unique lifestyle. As streaming continues to grow in popularity, hotels that can accommodate personal devices and offer a wide range of content options—including live TV, on-demand programming, and access to personal streaming accounts—will be better equipped to meet the expectations of this tech-savvy generation. By understanding and responding to these preferences, boutique hotels can create inviting environments that foster guest satisfaction and loyalty.
When asked about the significance of in-room entertainment in enhancing guest satisfaction, Twiggs emphasizes that guests are willing to pay more for accessible, high-quality entertainment options. “61% of travelers would pay extra for easy access to local, live, and on-demand TV and music,” she states. Additionally, providing top-notch entertainment can influence guests’ hotel choices, as 68% of business travelers and 70% of leisure travelers with children would switch hotels for superior entertainment offerings.
For boutique hotel owners looking to enhance their guest experience through technology, Twiggs advises staying responsive to evolving guest preferences. “Today’s travelers expect an experience that mirrors their home comforts, so providing access to personal content in a seamless way is essential,” she concludes. By focusing on delivering an entertainment mix that meets these growing expectations, boutique hotels can create memorable stays that resonate with their guests.”
To learn more about DIRECTV HOSPITALITY, visit their listing on the BLLA Marketplace.
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