IN RESPONSE to consumers’ increasing desires to manage travel plans directly from their smartphones – and make sure they are getting the best deal while doing so – Preferred Hotels & Resorts today launched a mobile app and member rate program as major enhancements to its points-based hotel rewards program, iPrefer. In celebration of iPrefer and the pursuit of independent travel, Preferred Hotels & Resorts is gifting 25,000 bonus points to iPrefer members who make a booking within the app by April 21, 2017.
“The new mobile app and member rate program are designed to better connect today’s travelers with the unique appeal of the independent hotel experience through a seamless loyalty program that delivers exclusive, on-the-go access to an attractive rate, points and valuable on-property perks,” said Casey Ueberroth, Chief Marketing Officer, Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “These enhancements are a testament to our continuous commitment to making iPrefer the most compelling loyalty program for independent-minded travelers.”
According to a 2016 study conducted by Google in regards to how people use their phones for travel, 60% of smartphone users stated they prefer using a mobile app versus a desktop to manage their loyalty program activities and 41% prefer using an app to book their hotel accommodations. Catering directly to this growing preference for on-the-go travel planning, the iPrefer mobile app is designed to provide time-saving, value-rich functionality that will enhance the overall iPrefer experience – before, during and after every stay.
“India is one of the fastest growing travel markets globally and innovations in technology are significantly influencing the way Indian travelers can explore unique destinations and find independent hotels around the world that offer immersive experiences. The noteworthy benefits of the iPrefer mobile app and member rate program shall further strengthen the rising popularity of the iPrefer program in India, as well as encourage discerning luxury travelers to conveniently book their holidays directly through iPrefer channels for access to competitive rates and valuable benefits upon every stay,” said Saurabh Rai, Executive Vice President of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.
Through the app, which was built in collaboration with American Express, members can search and book stays at more than 600 iPrefer participating hotels worldwide, access exclusive offers such as member rates and the iPrefer Last-Minute Escapes, update their profiles, view past/upcoming stay history and related points earnings and immediately access and redeem Reward Certificates.
iPrefer members using the app will also receive push notifications regarding special offers and American Express cardholders will have the ability to enjoy an expedited process through American Express Checkout. In the coming weeks, Preferred Hotels & Resorts will introduce enhanced features for the app such as a concierge chat service that allows guests to communicate directly with the hotelorthe ability for travelers to reserve services such as spa treatments that can be purchased using Reward Certificates.
The iPrefer app is available for iOS and Android devices in the Apple App Store and Google Play.
