Topguest founder Geoff Lewis introduces next generation of geolocation-driven hotel loyalty programs.

Location-based social networking services such as Foursquare, Gowalla, and Yelp have exploded in popularity recently, and many hotels are still trying to figure out what role they should take in participating.

What if it could be combined with a traditional hotel concept: the loyalty rewards program?

Topguest was created around this idea. Users of any of the major location-based services can earn real rewards program points by checking in on their mobile device.

I asked Founder/CEO Geoff Lewis (both founders: left) about it….

What is the big problem you saw that inspired you to create this?

The popularity of geolocation "check-in" services has exploded globally over the past few months. Geolocation information has major potential for the hotel industry to drive conversion, increase transactions, and brand affinity.

Topguest enables hotels to unlock the power of geolocation by linking your CRM and points/rewards system with the entire universe of geolocation applications.

I write this blog to encourage hotels to create better experiences for their guests. How does your product help with this?

Topguest enables hotels to leverage their existing points and rewards programs to reward their guests and prospective guests active on geolocation check-in apps such as Foursquare, Gowalla, and Google Latitude.

Your guests get rewards regardless of which application they use, driving engagement and affinity with your brand. If you don't have a points program already, Topguest can power one for you!

Can you give us an example of a hotel that has used this successfully?

Andre Balazs's Standard hotels are Topguest's "preview launch" exclusive partner. Topguest has powered an out of the box points program for Standard based on geolocation check-ins.

When a user earns 10 points, they have a choice of rewards including 25% off room reservations, complimentary Spa access, and gratis rounds of drinks.

Thus fair in just 7 days the Topguest-Standard program has enrolled over 3000 people.

If a hotel is interested in this, how can they begin working with you?

Contact Topguest's Partnership Team at partner@topguest.com . We'll get back to you within 24 hours

Original article: www.hotelmarketingstrategies.com/topguest-hotels-geoff-lewis-interview

About the author
This blog is written by Josiah Mackenzie, who enjoys exploring the relationship between emerging technology and the hospitality industry. 

www.hotelmarketingstrategies.com