Results from a new survey shows that in-room
WiFi is more important to travellers than parking, complimentary
breakfast and even a hotel’s location.
The Research+Data Insights
survey found that complimentary WiFi came in second only to cost
when considering booking a hotel stay.
Red Roof Inn is
taking their WiFi service to new levels across the
U.S., testing and then boosting the ability of Red Roof hotels
to increase WiFi to speeds that will allow guests to stream their
favorite movies, video games and music without delay.
To date, properties in
Statesville, NC, Washington DC-Manassas and Syracuse, NY have been
audited, verified and qualified for certification based on their
audit results.
“Fast. Free. Verified. That’s our goal for
Red Roof WiFi across the country,” said Andrew Alexander,
President, Red Roof. “We have listened to our guests and have
responded to their immediate needs when choosing where to stay.
Whether it’s a business traveler who needs WiFi to stay connected
on the road or a millennial who wants to stream music or play
video games, high speed WiFi is integral to today’s traveler no
matter who they are.”
The Verified WiFi initiative is
starting now in a test phase. Red Roof has already upgraded at
some properties and will start communicating that to travelers
with advertising on properties that have billboards with the
“Verified WiFi” logo touting “Fast + Free”.
The
Research+Data Insights survey found that 80% of economy travelers
have a more favorable opinion of a hotel offering complimentary
WiFi with guaranteed speeds.
Red Roof intends to offer those
guaranteed speeds at all properties in its 470+ portfolio. Sites
that may soon have Fast. Free. Verified. WiFi (currently
undergoing audits) include Buffalo-Niagara Airport, Pittsburgh
South – Airport, Ann Arbor – U of Michigan North, Chicago – Willowbrook, Austin South, and Nashville Airport.
“Red
Roof is investing in upgraded systems,” said Marina MacDonald,
CMO, Red Roof. “And we expect a return on investment: more
satisfied customers who will have unlimited streaming options as
well as increased bookings and additional RediCard
memberships…….ultimately enhancing our reputation as an upscale
economy brand.”
The Research+Data Insights survey also
found that millennials are two times more likely than other age
groups to stream video or music and play online games using hotel
WiFi.
Red Roof has
seen significant growth both domestically and internationally with
two new properties in Brazil within the last year, and most
recently another in Osaka, Japan. There are now 40 PLUS+
properties in the U.S. with a total of 50 expected by the end of
the year. Red Roof expects to end 2016 with 500 properties in its
portfolio.
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