Jun 28, 2017

HMSHost Promotes Host2Coast App with Pepper the Robot at U.S. Airports

Robot goes on country-wide airport summer tour to encourage airport dining app downloads

BETHESDA, MD — Global restaurateur HMSHost is bringing Pepper, the 4-foot-tall humanoid robot, on a North American airport tour to attract and engage travelers and encourage them to download the airport dining app, Host2Coast. The free mobile app offers travelers the ability to find the nearest food and beverage locations, view operating hours and menu information. At select airport dining locations, travelers can even pre-order and pay for their meal directly through the app.

HMSHost is leveraging innovative technology from SoftBank Robotics America, bringing its out-of-the-box software solution for Pepper, called Pepper Promoter, to airports across the country this summer to promote the Host2Coast app to travelers.

“HMSHost leads our industry in bringing innovation and one-of-a-kind experiences to travelers,” said HMSHost Chief Operating Officer Jeff Yablun. “Pepper Promoter gives HMSHost a unique and efficient way to engage with our guests and make them aware of new resources, such as the Host2Coast mobile app, that help enhance their travel dining experience.”

Pepper’s airport tour will start at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, then on to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and other markets in the near future.

At each location, Pepper will attract and engage travelers at various points throughout the airports. Pepper Promoter will greet travelers, inform them about the Host2Coast app, and encourage them to download the app by having them enter their phone number on her screen. The traveler will then instantly receive a text message to the phone number provided that will include a link to download the Host2Coast app, depending on their mobile devices operating system. Pepper Promoter will send travelers off with her signature air guitar dance routine, leaving them with a memorable experience before their flight.

Host2Coast is the most comprehensive airport restaurant app available, putting information directly in travelers’ hands and making it easy for them to better manage their time while at the airport when it comes to choosing what and where to eat. Later this summer, Host2Coast will expand its pre-order and pay option to include nearly 60 casual dining locations across more than a dozen airports. Host2Coast is available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Catch Pepper during your travels this summer? Share your sighting with @HMSHost using #Host2Coast.

Earlier this year, HMSHost launched a pilot program with SoftBank Robotics America to bring Pepper to her first North American airport location at Oakland International Airport. You will find Pepper at HMSHost’s Pyramid Ale Taproom in Terminal 2 entertaining guests, providing menu recommendations, and even increasing foot traffic to the restaurant.