Why Do Hotels Have Ice Machines?
September 8, 2023
source: iStock
Have you ever wondered why hotels always seem to have those trusty ice machines on every floor? Well, it turns out there’s a fascinating history behind this convenient amenity. It all started with a visionary man named Kemmons Wilson, the founder of Holiday Inn.
Back in the day, staying in a hotel wasn’t always the pleasant experience we’ve come to expect today. In the early 1950s, travelers faced a lot of inconveniences during their hotel stays. One of the most notable was the lack of easy access to ice for chilling their drinks or keeping perishables fresh. Imagine checking into a hotel on a hot summer’s day, and there’s no way to get some ice to cool down your beverages—definitely not the ideal situation for a relaxing vacation.
This problem bothered Kemmons Wilson, a Memphis businessman who had his own unpleasant experiences while traveling with his family. He found it frustrating that hotels didn’t offer basic amenities like ice, and he decided to do something about it. Wilson believed that hotels should be comfortable and convenient for everyone, so he came up with a brilliant idea: why not provide free access to ice machines for hotel guests?
In 1952, Wilson launched his own hotel chain, the Holiday Inn, and set a new standard for the hospitality industry. He made sure that every Holiday Inn had an ice machine on every floor, making it easy for guests to enjoy a refreshing beverage at any time. This simple addition transformed the hotel experience and quickly made Holiday Inn a popular choice for travelers.
But why were ice machines such a game-changer? Well, imagine the relief of being able to grab a bucket of ice to chill your drinks or store your favorite snacks. No more hunting for a convenience store or dealing with the hassle of asking hotel staff for ice. It was a small change that had a big impact on the comfort and convenience of hotel stays.
Wilson’s innovative idea soon caught on, and other hotels started following suit. Ice machines became a standard amenity, and travelers came to expect them wherever they stayed. Thanks to this simple but brilliant innovation, hotel guests around the world could enjoy a cold drink or keep their picnic provisions fresh.
Today, you can hardly find a hotel that doesn’t have an ice machine on every floor. It’s become an integral part of the hotel experience, and we owe it all to Kemmons Wilson and his vision for a more convenient and comfortable stay.
But here’s the twist – hotels aren’t just being generous with this icy offering. They’re also saving themselves money in the process. You see, having ice machines can actually be cost-effective for hotels in the long run. How? Let’s break it down.
No More Room Deliveries: Without ice machines, hotels would have to provide ice through room service or by sending someone to deliver it to each guest’s room. This involves extra labor and resources, which can quickly add up. By having ice machines on each floor, hotels reduce the need for these costly services.
Reduced Energy Consumption: Ice machines are designed to be energy-efficient. They use less power to produce ice compared to older, traditional methods. So, hotels save on their energy bills, contributing to their bottom line.
Guest Satisfaction: Satisfied guests are more likely to come back and suggest the hotel to others. Having ice machines readily available contributes to guest satisfaction and positive reviews, ultimately boosting a hotel’s reputation and occupancy rates.
Less Waste: Ice machines produce ice as needed, reducing waste compared to pre-packaged bags of ice. This not only saves money but also benefits the environment by reducing plastic waste.
So, it’s not just about hospitality; it’s about smart business too. Ice machines are a win-win for hotels and guests alike.
Now, you might wonder why some hotels charge for ice. Well, that’s where it gets a bit complicated. While many hotels offer complimentary ice, some do charge a fee. This practice is more common in upscale hotels, and it’s a way for them to generate additional revenue.
Think of it like this: those who are willing to pay for ice may have a higher budget and may not mind the extra cost. It’s a way for luxury hotels to maintain their image and provide premium services, including convenient ice delivery to your room.
But don’t worry; if you’re staying at a mid-range or budget-friendly hotel, you’ll likely still have access to free ice. It’s all about understanding the hotel’s pricing model and what’s included in your stay.
So, the next time you check into a hotel and make a beeline for the ice machine, take a moment to appreciate the history behind this seemingly ordinary amenity. It’s a reminder of how a simple idea can make a big difference in our everyday lives.