Agilysys, Inc. (Nasdaq: AGYS), a leading provider of innovative IT solutions, including specifically-designed hospitality software solutions, has announced that the Connaught, one of London’s most prestigious hotels, has implemented ResPAK, the specialist dining reservations and table management module. ResPAK is fully integrated with InfoGenesis(TM) POS by Agilysys, which the property has used for the past two years.

“Integrating InfoGenesis POS and ResPAK means we can personalize our service around guest preferences and requirements, while streamlining reservations and maximizing table usage and guest spend,” said Chris Thompson, information technology manager at the Connaught.

InfoGenesis POS is an enterprise-ready point-of-sale solution that combines powerful reporting and configuration capabilities with an easy-to-use touch-screen terminal application. The system, which is designed for multi-unit operations common in hospitality environments, can manage any combination of dining and bar operations and equips hotels to capitalize on guest revenue.

At the Connaught, ResPAK is now used both within the multi-award-winning Helene Darroze at the Connaught restaurant, with its luxurious surroundings and Michelin-starred cuisine, and in the hotel’s relaxed bistro-style restaurant, Espelette.

ResPAK functions include:

  * A real-time, self-service portal that optimizes online reservations without the need for staff;
  * Tools, such as restaurant layout charts and waitlists automated bookings, which make best use of table availability;
  * SMS messaging and paging that ensures timely guest communication;
  * Built-in e-mail functionality and storage of guest details and preferences, which allows for targeted marketing, resulting in repeat visits and increased business; and
  * Reporting and analysis tools that reveal trends in bookings and spend, enabling properties to plan for staffing during peak and quiet periods.

“The best restaurants achieve a perfect balance between operational efficiency and guest service,” said Tina Stehle, senior vice president and general manager of Agilysys Hospitality Solutions Group. “They avoid the pitfalls of under-utilization of tables, lack of guest information and inadequate preparation for busy periods, all of which can harm profitability. With ResPAK, the Connaught is finding that table planning can be managed smoothly and more profitably, and convenient online in-house booking facilities can be extended to new and returning guests.”

The Connaught, owned and managed by Maybourne Hotel Group, recently made a multi-million dollar investment in a restoration and renovation program, which includes a magnificent redesign of the guest rooms, suites and interiors using some of the world’s finest designers and craftsmen. The legendary hotel is located in the heart of exclusive Mayfair Village and its fashionable boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and museums. The Connaught was recently named ‘Hotel of the Year London,’ the ultimate accolade for hotels in the United Kingdom, at the AA Hospitality Awards 2009-2010 event.