Whitbread PLC, the parent company of Premier Inn, the UK’s largest hotel group, has announced a significant partnership expansion with Shiji, a leading innovator in hospitality technology. In a move set to redefine how hotel content is distributed, Whitbread has adopted Shiji’s newest solution, the Shiji Content Hub.
Since June 2021, Premier Inn has been utilising Shiji’s Dynamic ARI Distribution system, a tool that has played a pivotal role in connecting the hotel chain with new customers across the globe. Building on this success, Whitbread recently expanded its collaboration with Shiji in August 2023 to include the Shiji Content Hub, a comprehensive content management solution that promises to take their content distribution strategy to the next level.
Shiji Content Hub is not just another tool, it’s an all-in-one solution that handles everything from visual and textual content to amenities, facilities, taxes, and policies. By automating the distribution of this diverse content, Shiji Content Hub ensures that every piece of information about Whitbread’s properties reaches potential customers efficiently and effectively. This innovation stems from the legacy of Shiji IcePortal but brings with it enhanced capabilities tailored to modern hospitality needs.
Stephen Addison, Head of Sales & Distribution at Premier Inn, highlighted the impact this technology has already had. “Shiji Content Hub has enabled us to connect with many distributors we could not reach previously,” Addison said. “This has significantly enhanced our operational efficiency, benefiting both Whitbread and our distribution partners. Shiji is an agile, flexible, and highly supportive partner, and Whitbread is delighted to work with them to improve the distribution of our static and visual content.”
Whitbread’s early involvement in Shiji’s Beta Program for Content Hub allowed them to not only adopt the platform early but also to influence its development. Premier Inn-specific enhancements, provided by Shiji, have enabled Whitbread to distribute hotel content seamlessly across its entire portfolio, supporting key back-to-brand initiatives.
Natalie Kimball, VP of Strategic Account Management at Shiji Distribution Solutions, expressed her enthusiasm for the ongoing collaboration. “The partnership with Whitbread demonstrates the impact of our Shiji Content Hub in enhancing content distribution capabilities,” she said. “Our platform’s ability to connect hotels with the key global distributors has significantly improved Whitbread’s operational efficiency. We are committed to supporting Whitbread with our agile and innovative solutions, ensuring their success in the dynamic hospitality market.”
As the partnership between Whitbread and Shiji continues to flourish, both companies are united in their mission to drive excellence and enhance the guest experience through advanced technology. This collaboration is a testament to the power of innovation in the hospitality industry, setting a new standard for content distribution in hotels across the globe.
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