Press Release

SAFLOK™ Unveils Integration with OpenWays

SAFLOK™ Introduces New Remote Access Technology at IH/M&RS 2009

MADISON HEIGHTS, MI – November 4, 2009

Global electronic hotel lock provider SAFLOK™ announces its collaboration with OpenWays, a global provider of mobile-based access-management and guest-service solutions for the hospitality industry. Through this alliance, SAFLOK and Openways have developed an interface that enables SAFLOK locks to read a “key” that is delivered by an OpenWays-enabled cell phone.

This “interaction” between the two solutions enables the guest to securely receive his or her room number and room key via cell phone, thereby streamlining the check-in and check-out process by allowing the guest to bypass the front desk.

OpenWays interfaces with SAFLOK electronic locks regardless of the card technology being used. The solution interfaces with a hotel’s PMS, CRS and CIS, and can facilitate mobile bookings and mobile confirmations, mobile upgrade offers, e-payment/e-ticketing vouchers, e-concierge, and more.

“There has been talk over the last several years about developing a solution for access control that works in tandem with mobile communication,” says Kerry Hirschy, vice president of sales and marketing, Kaba Lodging Systems. “OpenWays is exciting new technology that addresses this need.”

According to Pascal Metivier, founder and chief executive officer of Openways, the solution allows for better guest service, operating cost reduction, margin improvement, and guest channel shift. “On behalf of the OpenWays team, we are thrilled to work with SAFLOK,” he said. “Not only is this an exciting first for hospitality, but it is a major breakthrough in mobile communications and access-control technology.”

Additionally, with the introduction of this interface, SAFLOK customers who wish to adopt mobile-access technology no longer have to rely on the availability of NFC devices to realize this convenience. SAFLOK and ILCO were among the first providers to introduce NFC-compatibility with its locks. The OpenWays-SAFLOK integration is available to new customers and customers with already existing magstripe and RFID installations. 

SAFLOK has a reputation for its operational efficiency, affordability, and ease in enhancing the guest experience. This collaboration with OpenWays is a natural extension of the unique and cutting-edge solutions that is part of SAFLOK’s commitment to developing customer-centric innovation.

For a hands-on demonstration at the upcoming International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show (IHMRS) 2009 visit Kaba Lodging Systems (booth #2902) and OpenWays (booth #3169).

About OpenWays
OpenWays is a global solution provider of mobile-based access-management and security solutions. With offices in Chicago, Las Vegas, Seoul and Paris, OpenWays provides technology solutions allowing for the secure issuance and delivery of access rights and keys process via any cell phone operating on any network. The OpenWays solution is truly unique as it built on the concept of credential dematerialization. The OpenWays mobile room key solution works on ALL the 4 billion cell phones in service in the world today. www.openways.com

About Kaba ILCO Inc.

Kaba Ilco Inc. is a leader in electronic access control solutions for the lodging industry. Through its flagship ILCO brand, it has a security system for virtually every access control application or security need. The company’s many successes derive from its mission to deliver customer satisfaction and its commitment to offering state-of-the-art electronic locks.

www.ilcolodging.com
1.877.468.3555

About SAFLOK

SAFLOK has been a member of the Kaba group since its acquisition in 2006. As a market innovator, SAFLOK has nearly 30 years of experience designing, manufacturing, and distributing electronic locks and systems.  Its solutions are installed globally in the hospitality, lodging, multihousing, and commercial markets. SAFLOK is committed to delivering best in class solutions that help properties achieve improved operations and reduced costs.

www.saflok.com
1.877.272.3565

About Kaba Holding AG

Kaba is a globally active, publicly traded security corporation. With its “Total Access” strategy, the Kaba Group is specialized in integrated solutions for security, organization, and convenience at building and information access points. Kaba is also the world market’s number-one provider of key blanks, key-cutting and coding machines, transponder keys, and high-security locks. It is a leading provider of electronic access systems, locks, master key systems, hotel locking systems, security doors, and automatic doors.

www.kaba.com