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Utrecht-based Runnr.ai, a leading hospitality communication platform specializing in conversational AI, has successfully secured €1 million in a recent funding round. Arches Capital and Golden Egg Check, alongside angel investors Roland Zeller, Marnix van der Ploeg, and Hans Pieters, contributed to this round, supporting the company’s vision for international expansion.
Runnr.ai addresses the challenge faced by the hospitality industry, balancing rising guest expectations against a persistent 97% staff shortage. Despite technological advancements, only 11% of hotels utilize technology for guest communication. Founded by industry veterans Michiel de Vor, Maarten Fugers, and Steven Oliemans, Runnr.ai introduces an AI tool that leverages generative, self-learning AI to automate proactive communication with guests through platforms like WhatsApp.
This technology, exceeding the capabilities of traditional chatbots, ensures guests receive prompt and tailored responses. With over 50% guest engagement, Runnr.ai has achieved a remarkable 90% approval rating for improved stay experiences. Moreover, the technology streamlines operations, handling up to 95% of guest queries automatically, resulting in substantial time and cost savings for hotels.
Beyond enhancing customer satisfaction, Runnr.ai’s technology significantly reduces staff workload. The automated messaging approach facilitates upselling, potentially generating up to €65 in additional profit per room each month. Integration with Hotel Property Management Systems ensures instant billing for added services, including breakfast, restaurant reservations, late check-out, and room upgrades.
CEO Michiel de Vor states, “Our technology creates a unique combination of service, efficiency, and commerce—something needed more than ever in the hospitality industry due to staff shortages and the rise of generative AI.”
Established in November 2022, Runnr.ai has onboarded over 100 hotels, handling more than 60,000 unique guest queries monthly. Managing Partner at Arches Capital, Frank Appeldoorn, highlights the company’s value proposition, emphasizing its compelling ROI for hotels.
The newly acquired funds will be utilized for product development and expanding automated customer service across the Benelux, the UK, and Germany in 2024. The company aims for a European-wide expansion in 2025, with a long-term goal of becoming the international market leader in automated customer service for hospitality.
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By Proptechbuzz
By Ravi Kumar
