Uniguest, a provider of digital engagement technology to multiple end markets, has acquired Volara, a provider of voice-based engagement software.
Already managing more than 20,000 voice assistant solutions at over 400 locations, Volara now launches Uniguest’s voice technology division, positioning the company to bring voice-based contactless engagement technology solutions to hospitality, senior living communities, stadiums, banks and other industries.
Volara’s highly secure and deeply integrated platform is used by property managers, creative agencies and technology integrators to enable customers to request items and services such as extra towels, turndown services or in-room dining; enjoy entertainment; hear recommendations for nearby attractions; and access many other on-brand voice-based experiences.
Often utilized via Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, Volara’s solutions are hardware and platform agnostic, making them a popular choice for third-party integrators. Volara’s software and infrastructure ensure the protection of guest privacy and the security of its clients’ data. Additionally, Volara is an authorized solution provider for Google Assistant’s Interpreter mode, enabling 29-language translation across commercial locations including airports, stadiums, retail outlets, banks and hotels.
“We are very excited to add Volara to the Uniguest suite of solutions, especially since it fits so well across the key industries our brands operate in,” said Jeff Hiscox, CEO, Uniguest. “Voice creates contactless experiences, and we see it has a big part in future technology, and by offering a secure and functional software like Volara’s, we expect to see high adoption rates from current and new customers alike.”
Dave Berger, founder/CEO, Volara will stay with Uniguest after the acquisition as EVP, Volara, Uniguest’s Voice Division. “In early 2016, we envisioned voice-first technologies managing customer relationships across many commercial properties,” he said. “With that aim, we focused on three requirements: robust customer privacy protections, impenetrable security of client data and seamless integrations into the technology ecosystem of each vertical where our solutions were engaged. Today, as the leading voice assistant solution for hotels and senior living communities, I’m excited to accelerate our growth in both our existing and new verticals as part of Uniguest.”
This announcement is the latest in a series of acquisitions made by Uniguest. The company acquired JANUS Displays, a hospitality-focused digital signage company in February; Sagely, a senior living software technology provider in May; and UCView, an IPTV and digital signage provider in September.