10.12.2024
Smooth Sailing with Smart Luggage Lockers
Europe, which accounts for nearly a fifth of global ferry traffic, is witnessing a resurgence in demand as travelers increasingly opt for ferries. These journeys offer a far more relaxed atmosphere and a lower environmental impact compared to air travel. As passenger habits evolve, smart luggage lockers have emerged as a game-changer.
Smart luggage lockers provide secure, contactless personal storage solutions that cater to post-pandemic demands for convenience, hygiene, and security. Offering a seamless and efficient experience, the cost of using these lockers is comparable to that of a cup of coffee.
Maximize Revenue and Efficiency
Historically, ferries relied on manned storage areas for passengers to stow their belongings, allowing them to enjoy their cruise without worrying about luggage. Now, these secure personal lockers not only reduce the workload and costs for operators but also enhance user convenience and generate additional revenue.
The underlying technology is highly scalable and can be configured to accommodate various locker quantities based on specific requirements. It is recommended that operators install enough luggage lockers to manage high-traffic areas and peak times effectively.
For example, one ferry company revealed that all 60 lockers were fully booked within just ten minutes of boarding. This popularity ensures that lockers recoup investment costs, often exceeding profitability expectations quickly.
“The ferry firm was amazed at the revenue generated by the lockers; they paid for the system in just months. In fact, they jokingly suggested building a new ship around the lockers due to the impressive return on investment,” shares Anssi Suominen, Chief of Business Development.
Elevate the Storage Experience
One major differentiator of Punta smart luggage lockers is their design, which is specifically tailored for locations like shopping malls, hotels, and especially ferries. This system offers more than just standard locker features.
“Our lockers include advanced functionalities such as a flexible terminal and a payment system for processing card and contactless transactions. They are primarily mains-powered and typically installed indoors. We also provide an outdoor version, which features more robust cabinets and enhanced waterproofing,” says Peter Tapio, product owner, storage.
The system and interface are designed to be as straightforward as possible to minimize maintenance and integration needs. Locations such as shopping malls, petrol stations, and ferries prefer systems that allow users to store their belongings with minimal staff intervention. Traditional issues like lost keys and forgotten luggage are mitigated through integration with ferry boarding passes or electronic keys, such as RFID technology or optical codes on mobile devices.
Potential Markets
Any location currently using coin-operated lockers or displaying signs stating that “Personal belongings are left at the owner’s risk” represents a potential market for intelligent luggage lockers.
From travel hubs and shopping malls to amusement parks, any venue where visitors spend over an hour or an entire day is an ideal candidate for convenient storage solutions. These lockers enable exploration without the burden of heavy bags. Self-service and traditional hotels are also expressing interest in adopting these innovative storage options.
Accessibility is a crucial consideration. Lockers must be positioned at lower heights for users with accessibility needs, including those who use wheelchairs. “Our system can automatically allocate accessible lockers during the reservation process, while the PIN pads and screens are adjustable to heights convenient for most users,” explains Tapio.
While we do not offer complete customization for every element, we are significantly more adaptable than many competitors. For instance, locker compartment sizes can be tailored to meet specific customer requirements.
Continuous Improvement
Punta is dedicated to developing products that enhance user experience by actively seeking feedback from locker users. The adjustments and optimizations are implemented to benefit all customers, even those who did not directly request specific changes.
“Punta is engineered for flexibility. We take pride in designing, developing, and manufacturing our solutions, encompassing every aspect of our operations. Our expertise spans mechanical design, software, hardware, and firmware, allowing us to provide a complete package, including comprehensive after-sales support,” notes Suominen.
Smart luggage lockers present a convenient solution for managing belongings in an increasingly mobile world. Just as a coffee can energize and rejuvenate a weary traveler, these lockers offer the freedom to explore unencumbered, facilitating a more enjoyable and stress-free travel experience.
