Revolutionizing Business Hotels with 24-Hour Frozen Vending Machines

A Game-Changer for Business Hotels: The 24-Hour Frozen Vending Machine

In the heart of Higashiomi City, Shiga Prefecture, a noteworthy innovation has emerged at the business hotel, AZ Inn Notogawa. The installation of a 24-hour frozen vending machine in the hotel lobby marks a significant advancement in catering to the needs of business travelers who often struggle to find convenient dining options during odd hours.

Addressing the Challenges of Food Provision

The growing issue of labor shortages in the hospitality industry has prompted AZ Inn Notogawa to rethink its food service strategy. Traditional restaurant setups often pose challenges, especially when a kitchen renovation is underway. To tackle this problem, the hotel has cleverly utilized available space to host a state-of-the-art frozen vending machine accompanied by a microwave. This initiative not only strives to improve the dining experience for guests but also ensures that high-quality meals are accessible around the clock.

A Warm Meal Anytime

Considering that nearby convenience stores and supermarkets don’t operate 24/7, the introduction of the frozen vending machine is a boon for business travelers. With just a few clicks, guests can enjoy warm meals such as Tonkotsu Fish Broth Ramen and generous servings of Katsu Curry. Previously, the main option available during late hours was instant cup noodles, but this new setup guarantees that guests can relish a hot meal, regardless of the time—an important feature particularly during adverse weather conditions like heavy rains or typhoons.

Boosting Employee Morale and Hospitality

The implementation of the vending machine hasn't only benefited guests. It has also created an opportunity for employees to engage more with guest satisfaction. Staff members are encouraged to think creatively about what can delight customers, leading to a happier work environment. For instance, the currently popular ramen was a product of employee suggestions, exemplifying how their input translates into tangible outcomes that benefit guests, ultimately fostering a spirit of hospitality throughout the team.

About Cqree Corporation

Behind this innovative initiative is Cqree Corporation, which has been at the forefront of premium food delivery services since its inception in October 2014. The company operates the esteemed “yuizen” service, delivering gourmet bento from approximately 3,000 selected restaurants across all 47 prefectures of Japan. They also manage a catering service, “Catering Selection,” and have adapted their offerings in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including food production services and virtual restaurant brands.

Company Overview

- Name: Cqree Corporation
- Location: Minami-Oii 6-16-16, Oimura Building 4F, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
- CEO: Kohei Tsuruta
- Established: October 2014
- Business Focus: Premium bento delivery, food material wholesale, virtual restaurant brand provisioning, catering services, online meal delivery for events, and food consulting.

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This 24-hour frozen vending machine is an exemplary model of how innovation can enhance the hospitality experience, ensuring that guests are well catered for no matter the hour.