Swan and Dolphin Resort Launches New Innovative Techniques to Give Value to Resort Guests

New deals texting program provides guests additional savings even after check in

(August 28, 2009) As consumers continue to look for the best values when they travel, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort has launched a new program which extends the values to them even after they check in.  The hotel’s exciting new text messaging program allows the savings to follow them throughout their stay.  

As one of the first of its kind for an individual hotel property, the program allows guests the opportunity to sign up to receive text messages for exclusive deals at its spa, restaurants and lounges during their stay.  All deals offered through the program are of greater value than those available to the general public.

"We are constantly seeking the newest and most innovative ways to enhance the guest experience at our resort," said Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin General Manager Paul Scott. "Whether our guests are relaxing in their room, lounging by the pool or enjoying a day in the theme parks, they can access immediate savings from their mobile phone."

According to CTIA, the cellular phone industry's trade group, more than 85 percent of Americans use mobile phones. To add to this, texting has exploded in popularity, with more than 1 trillion text messages having been sent last year.  This number is expected to grow even further in 2009. 

While the new program offers savings to the guests, it also brings value to hotel employees, as restaurants, spas and other venues can stimulate customer traffic with immediate offers to those already on-site.  “The program is mutually beneficial for our guests and cast members,” said Scott.

The program also serves as a unique, immediate tool to keep hotel guests informed of last-minute hotel updates.

Guests will automatically stop receiving the text messages after four days and can opt out of the service at any time. Those staying at the resort longer than four days can sign up again to continue receiving the texts.

Users who do not actively opt out of the service receive the added benefit of being eligible to receive exclusive offers on future stays at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. 

As a leader in individual hotel technology, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is one of the first to offer a program of this kind. The property has continually taken aggressive steps to lead the way in developing systems typically offered by larger entities, such as hotel chains and destinations. Recently, it introduced a groundbreaking iPhone and iTouch application that provides users access to in-depth resort information including pictures, video and resort map.  In addition, the hotel was among the first individual properties to unveil a hotel-specific website when hotel websites were still an industry novelty.  They went on to expand their internet technology usage by leading the way in introducing an on-line group reservation system, 360-degree photo tours and more.

“We will continue to leverage technology to the benefit of our customers,” added Scott.  “I can’t think of a more suitable way to connect with our customers than using it to give them immediate savings.”

In the heart of the Walt Disney World® Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is your gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The resort is located in between Epcot® and Disney’s Hollywood Studios^TM, and nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and Magic Kingdom® Park. Come discover our 17 world-class restaurants and lounges, sophisticated guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds® and the luxurious Mandara Spa. Enjoy five pools, two health clubs, tennis, nearby golf, and many special Disney benefits, including complimentary transportation to Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Attractions, and the Extra Magic Hours benefit. The resort can be reached at 800-227-1500 or www.swandolphin.com.

--Posted August 28, 2009