Zaplox, a provider of digital guest solutions for the hospitality industry, has been chosen as the mobile key services provider for a proof of concept (PoC) with a prominent, yet undisclosed, hotel group.

This partnership underscores the growing trend towards digital self-service options in the hotel sector and positions Zaplox as a key player in this space.

The PoC, which represents a paid collaboration, is expected to help the hotel group integrate its own mobile application with Zaplox's mobile key services.

Zaplox president and CEO Tess Mattisson said: “Following the successful launch of mobile keys in Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, we are witnessing an increased interest in our solutions. 

“This PoC reflects the growing market demand, and maturity of the industry and highlights our position as a trusted provider of digital solutions.”

This initiative serves as a validation process for Zaplox's solution, which represents the solution’s ability to fulfil technical standards and guest satisfaction, potentially leading to a wider deployment.

Zaplox's approach to PoCs has been proven successful in the past, notably with PENN Entertainment, where a PoC eventually resulted in a full contract and the introduction of mobile keys.

Such collaborations allow hotel groups to evaluate the tangible benefits of Zaplox's technology on guest engagement and operational efficiency before committing to a comprehensive roll-out.

Mattisson added: “Although we understand the need of experiencing our solutions first-hand, it is always challenging to ‘demo’ a middleware service, but with this PoC, we get to demonstrate our technology while contributing with our expertise, and building a solid foundation for a potential launch.

“We take pride in our role as a selected partner, and are committed to supporting this hotel group on their digital transformation journey.”

Established in 2010 and based in Lund, Sweden, Zaplox offers a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform, which aims to enhance the guest experience by offering a range of services, including self-service check-in and mobile keys.

The company said its platform has become an integral part of the hospitality industry, assisting hotel chains, resorts, and casinos across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions in delivering a frictionless digital experience to their guests.