Nobu Hotels, a brand synonymous with luxury, service, and innovation, is taking a significant leap forward in its digital transformation journey. The global hospitality group has announced a comprehensive upgrade to its AI-powered network infrastructure, designed to elevate guest experiences while fortifying security across its properties worldwide.
The upgrade, implemented in collaboration with Hewlett Packard Enterprise’s Aruba Networking, introduces cutting-edge wired, wireless, and SD-WAN capabilities. Central to this enhancement is the integration of Zero Trust security principles, ensuring that both guest and operational data are safeguarded in an increasingly connected environment.
This new infrastructure is set to redefine the luxury experience at select Nobu Hotels. Guests can expect enhanced connectivity for mobile devices, IoT gadgets, and AI-driven applications, all designed to deliver seamless, hyper-personalised services. One of the standout features is the AI Concierge, accessible through an in-room digital voice assistant or the Nobu mobile app. This virtual assistant not only responds to guest requests but also offers proactive recommendations tailored to individual preferences, all powered by real-time data.
“Our vision is to provide a secure, seamless, and hyper-personalised guest experience that leverages the latest technologies,” said Rodney Linville, Global Head of IT for Nobu Hospitality. “From smart rooms to advanced CRM and property management, our aim is to enhance every touchpoint of the guest journey while ensuring exceptional data security.”
The deployment also includes innovative IoT solutions that enhance both guest comfort and operational efficiency. Smart room features like automated door systems, voice-controlled lighting, and advanced HVAC sensors are complemented by operational tools such as IoT-enabled point-of-sale devices and housekeeping automation systems like HotSOS and Knowcross.
Security remains a top priority for Nobu Hotels, with the new infrastructure built on the robust Zero Trust framework provided by HPE Aruba Networking. “Our strategic deployment of HPE Aruba Networking ClearPass and Dynamic Segmentation ensures we can maintain our Zero Trust vision without adding complexity for our IT teams,” Linville added.
Larry Lunetta, Vice President of AI, Security, and Networking Product Marketing at HPE Aruba Networking, emphasised the importance of this partnership. “Nobu Hotels is a leader in luxury hospitality, and their commitment to secure, streamlined connectivity is critical to meeting the high expectations of their guests. Our solutions are designed to support their iconic brand by delivering reliable, energy-efficient networking that enables innovation and enhances the guest experience.”
With the global hospitality market still navigating the post-pandemic landscape, Nobu Hotels is positioning itself to continue its legacy of innovation. The new AI-driven networking infrastructure is not just a technological upgrade but a strategic move to maintain the brand’s competitive edge in the luxury sector.
As Linville concluded, “Our relationship with HPE Aruba Networking ensures that we can continue delivering on our brand promise while staying agile in the face of future technological and market developments.”