Preview into the future of hospitality

As the world of hospitality continues to evolve with the integration of innovative technologies, Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) stands at the forefront. On September 15th, 2023, an exciting event is set to unfold on the SHMS Leysin campus – a live demonstration of the state-of-the-art hospitality robot, Lucki, by Marconnet Technologies. This event, organized in collaboration with SHMS lecturer Xavier de Leymarie and Marconnet Robotics manager Benjamin Marconnet, marks a significant leap forward in showcasing the synergy between traditional Swiss hospitality values and cutting-edge technological advancements in the hospitality and tourism industry.

The boundaries between human interaction and technological innovation are artfully blurred in this extraordinary exploration into the future of hospitality, and Robot Lucki is the central figure in this remarkable demonstration. Designed to seamlessly integrate with various service-oriented environments, Robot Lucki epitomizes the junction between human-centric values and the latest in robotics. This demonstration aims to deliver a firsthand experience of the capabilities and potentials of Robot Lucki. Students and faculty alike will have the unique opportunity to witness the robot in action, as well as engage with its creators to gain insights into its development and application within the hospitality sector.

For a renowned institution like SHMS, deeply rooted in Switzerland's historic hospitality traditions, embracing technological innovation while preserving the essence of authentic guest service is a delicate balance. SHMS has a history of innovation and leadership when it comes to hospitality technology; in 2017, SHMS became the first hotel management school in the world to be recognized as an Apple Distinguished School, a designation reserved for academic institutions committed to learning with technology and continuous innovation. The upcoming demonstration only further underscores the institution's unwavering commitment to equipping its students and staff with a comprehensive understanding of both the established and emerging facets of the industry.

“It makes perfect sense to integrate such an advanced robot in our students’ academic curriculum at a leading Hospitality Management School like SHMS," remarks Xavier de Leymarie. "More and more hotels and restaurants are embracing this new technology, and we naturally want our students to know how to use it wisely in order to create value and return on investment. Knowing how to use the latest technological tools will give them the required skills to be future leaders of the hospitality industry.”

The demonstration is more than a passive exhibition; it represents a significant educational opportunity for the SHMS community. In an era where technological fluency is becoming increasingly crucial across industries, the event will offer an immersive learning experience. Attendees will have the chance to interact with Robot Lucki, observe its functionalities, and engage in discussions with the minds behind its creation. For students pursuing a future in hospitality management, understanding the ins and outs of future technologies such as Robot Lucki gives them insight into where the industry is headed and their own place in it. The event aligns with SHMS's dedication to bridging the gap between education and industry practice. By engaging directly with innovative companies like Marconnet Technologies, students and staff gain firsthand exposure to the latest advancements and trends in the hospitality sector as well as an opportunity to discover different perspectives on hospitality from engineers, business people, and other professionals.

As SHMS continues to nurture future hospitality leaders, it recognizes the importance of cultivating a multifaceted skill set that encompasses both time-honored traditions and forward-thinking technological proficiency. This demonstration serves as a testament to the school’s commitment to empowering students with the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. SHMS remains steadfast in its mission to provide a comprehensive and future-oriented education, maintaining industry relevance and keeping up-to-date with contemporary trends in hospitality. The upcoming demonstration of Lucki the hospitality robot represents not only an exciting glimpse into the technological marvels of tomorrow but also a powerful affirmation of SHMS's dedication to excellence, innovation, and the enduring values that define the heart of Swiss hospitality.