Hotels in Benidorm are integrating automated technology to lighten the cleaning duties for staff members.
In the sun-kissed resort town of Benidorm, Spain, the hospitality industry is undergoing a significant transformation. Hotels are embracing automation and smart technology, not just for sustainability and guest experience improvements, but also to support their hardworking staff.
The Magic Hotel Group, a prominent player in Benidorm's hospitality scene, has taken a step forward in its commitment to the wellbeing of its team, particularly cleaning staff and room attendants. On Tuesday, August 5, the group issued a statement, asserting that it had "taken another step forward in its commitment to the wellbeing of its team."
The group stands by its automation strategy, claiming it reduces manual handling, improves time management, and increases efficiency in both housekeeping and food services. The Magic Hotel Group is not alone in this endeavour. Union representatives in Benidorm hotels are advocating for the replacement of traditional mop and bucket systems with lever-operated alternatives to prevent repetitive strain injuries.
The housekeeping department in hotels continues to be one of the most physically demanding in the hotel sector. Staff in Benidorm hotels are often overwhelmed by the pace and intensity of their work. Cristian Casas, president of the UGT union section at the Magic Hotel Group, has stated that the housekeeping department in Benidorm hotels remains physically demanding.
To address this issue, the Magic Hotel Group has introduced several new technologies. The group has begun using robots for limited table service in its restaurants, and for transporting bed linen and towels, easing a physical burden for employees. The introduction of motorized trolleys is the result of ongoing discussions between UGT and the hotel chain's human resources department.
Equipped with wheels, these height-adjustable beds in Benidorm hotels can be moved with greater ease, reducing the risk of injury. Some hotels in Benidorm have installed elevating beds designed to reduce strain on the back and ease movement. Hotel chains in Benidorm are also adopting high-pressure cleaning systems, like hydro-cleaners, to sweep and mop more efficiently, saving time and physical effort.
The wider hospitality industry increasingly uses AI tools to automate guest communications and data management. This is exemplified by AI-driven chatbots like Quicktext, which automate guest requests and facility management queries, reducing administrative burden and indirectly improving workflow efficiency for hotel staff, including cleaners by better scheduling and issue tracking.
Although specific hospital cleaning automation is not currently highlighted for Benidorm, global hotel industry trends show an increasing use of robotics and AI-enabled cleaning solutions to reduce physical strain on cleaning staff and improve health outcomes by minimizing exposure to chemicals or repetitive tasks.
The implications point to better worker health due to reduced physical burden and enhanced efficiency through integrated digital solutions. The new technologies implemented by the Magic Hotel Group have led to a 20% increase in customer loyalty.
However, not everyone is convinced. Casas believes the use of robots may be more suitable for themed restaurants but is not appropriate for buffet settings. Despite some reservations, the Magic Hotel Group continues to advocate for the use of automation in its hotels.
These smart and automated technologies, largely centred on sustainability, guest experience, and operational efficiency, are expected to indirectly and increasingly support cleaning staff through improved resource management and workflow automation. The future of Benidorm's hospitality sector looks set to be one of innovation and improved working conditions for its dedicated staff.
- The Magic Hotel Group, in response to physical demands faced by its cleaning staff, has introduced technologies such as robots and motorized trolleys, aiming to incorporate 'science' and 'technology' to improve 'workplace-wellness' and overall 'health-and-wellness'.
- In an effort to minimize physical strain and enhance 'lifestyle' for its employees, the hospitality industry in Benidorm, Spain, is adopting innovations like AI-driven communication tools and AI-enabled cleaning solutions, aiming to streamline workflow and boost 'health-and-wellness'.
