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About AKZENT Hotel Roter Ochse
Run by the same family for three generations, AKZENT Hotel Roter Ochse is a 31-room property in the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley. The hotel is part of AKZENT Hotels, a collective of 70+ independently owned boutique and family-run properties across Germany, each known for its character, regional flavors and one-of-a-kind guest experiences.
When Roter Ochse swapped their old HS3 system for Mews, the impact was immediate. Check-in times dropped. Staff time spent on manual admin fell sharply. Guests enjoyed smoother stays with more personal attention.
With Mews running the backend, the team can now focus on creating exceptional experiences, setting a benchmark for how German hotels can embrace the future without losing their heritage.
"We wanted a true digital boost for our hotel. The previous software simply couldn't support our vision of a modern, fully digital guest journey."
Fast, structured and collaborative onboarding
Challenge
Digitalization doesn't strip away human connection - it makes more of it possible. But switching to a new system takes more than new software; it requires effective change management. Without the right guidance, the process can feel daunting.
Solution
The Mews onboarding team worked hand in hand with the hotel's project leads, creating a clear plan and pace everyone could follow. Staff were trained on the modules they'd use daily, while management took the extra step of running an in-house session to reinforce learning. It was a smooth, collaborative rollout where everyone felt confident, supported and ready for change.
Result
- 4 weeks to go live
- Modern processes in place, happier staff and more time for guests
"We involved every team member in the rollout process. The new way of thinking quickly took hold. Everyone who works with Mews appreciates its intuitive design and transparency."
Impressive optimization across multiple areas
Challenge
The goal of replacing a server-based system with a flexible cloud solution was to automate processes around reservations, check-in, payments and housekeeping, freeing up more time for guest engagement.
Solution
Two Mews Kiosks now sit at reception, with a third tucked into a secure vestibule outside for late-night arrivals. Guests can check in without queues and start their stay on their own terms. It's a huge relief for the front desk team, especially during busy arrival times. No more squinting at handwritten registration forms - details now flow straight into the system digitally, saving hours every week. Housekeeping runs entirely paperless via the Mews app, syncing real-time room status. Before, staff had to ask if a room was ready. Now, one glance at the app is all it takes.
Result
- 60% check-in rate via Mews Kiosk
- Key card creation, balance checks and payment handling are fully integrated into the Kiosk process
- Faster housekeeping operations and measurable progress toward sustainability goals
Guests are often surprised at how easy it is to use Mews Kiosk. For returning visitors, it's a real time-saver thanks to stored data.
More flexibility, more control - modern payment processing
Challenge
Managing payments was time-consuming and prone to errors. The hotel needed a solution that could streamline transactions and reduce manual input.
Solution
With Mews, the hotel can now create flexible booking models, adjusting rates and payment types with ease - whether that's breakfast included, non-refundable or fully flexible. This versatility benefits both guests and revenue management. Payments run through Mews Payments and are securely processed, with automated safeguards to reduce the risk of fraud and theft. On-site, Mews Terminals read card details automatically and trigger transactions directly from the PMS, removing the risk of manual mistakes and eliminating the need for paper slips.
Result
- No paper to print, no manual delays - just instant payment processing
"We now tend to charge guests upon arrival, which has significantly reduced check-out bottlenecks. Because arrivals are usually staggered throughout the day, it eases the workload at the reception desk."
More time for guests - true hospitality powered by tech
Challenge
Time spent on paperwork and behind screens is time taken from guests. At AKZENT Hotel Roter Ochse, manual admin was limiting the personal touch that sets family-run hotels apart.
Solution
What started as a technical project has become a real differentiator in daily operations. With many tasks automated, staff now have more time for guests. So when a family arrives unexpectedly early after a long drive, reception can greet them personally, share local tips and make them feel at home - all before the rooms are ready.
Result
- These genuine moments of connection now happen every day
"Many leisure guests show up without firm plans. With Mews handling the admin, we actually have time to chat, share tips, and give recommendations - something that was impossible during hectic check-ins before."
Looking ahead
AKZENT Hotel Roter Ochse is looking into integrating an AI-powered telephone system to handle standard inquiries and support bookings via voice.
"This would be a real help during peak times. Automating this area would give us even more flexibility," Heike explains.
Their example shows what thoughtful digitalization can do for family-run German hotels - when it's strategic and focused on enhancing the guest experience.
Integration spotlight
AKZENT Hotel Roter Ochse can explore new digital tools through the Mews Marketplace of 1,000+ apps. With no integration fees, it's easy and low-risk to customize a platform that fits their brand and enhances the guest experience.
DIRS21
DIRS21 is a web-based reservations and channel management system that gives AKZENT Hotel Roter Ochse full access to the wide world of online distribution. They have deep market expertise, providing solutions for the hotel, catering and tourism sectors for over 20 years.
Betterspace
Betterspace helps hotels drive sustainability with smart solutions, from guest communication to energy management and hotel infrastructure. Their technology improves efficiency, reduces waste and supports eco-friendly hospitality.