TEL AVIV, ISRAEL—With the tap of an app, the InterContinental David Tel Aviv is delivering instant access to newspapers and magazines in more than 60 languages, while maintaining its commitment to sustainability. The hotel brand has partnered with PressReader, a digital database of international newspapers and magazines.
“We were motivated to find a way to reduce paper waste in the hotel as well as to be able to provide our guests with their favorite publications, which aren’t always available here,” said David Cohen, GM at InterContinental David Tel Aviv. “Our Rooms Division Manager Sotirios Ikonomou experienced it firsthand at one of our sister properties. He enjoyed it so much and decided to implement the service here as well.”
Here’s how it works: Guests access PressReader through a free app download via the hotel’s WiFi to access a digital version of the publication as it appears in print. The hotel has the full package, which includes all of the publications available to guests during their stay and for 24 hours after they check out.
“Our guests’ reactions are very enthusiastic to this service; we’ve seen a decline in requests for newspapers and many are excited to have lifestyle magazines available to them as well,” said Cohen. “Apart from now being able to offer a tremendous variety of international publications, we’ve been able to cut down on the amount of daily papers, reducing subscription costs as well as in-house delivery services. All in all, we can estimate yearly savings of $30,000.”
Going digital has enabled the hotel team to focus on delivering “authentic, enriching experiences,” noted Cohen. As an organization, it is committed to preserving the surroundings and investing in the well-being of the community.
“We’re constantly seeking ways to improve our guests’ stay, anticipate their needs and exceed expectations,” he said. “When there’s a solution that is also environmentally friendly and also reduces costs—it’s a win-win for us.”