Revolutionizing Hotel Operations at Lofthotel: A Customer Success Story
Lofthotel, located in the serene setting of Murg, Switzerland, combines historical charm with modern hospitality. Originally a spinning mill, it was transformed into a boutique hotel in 2012. With 19 stylish rooms and spaces for corporate events and art exhibitions, Lofthotel has evolved into a seven-day operation, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
Independent Hotels
Jun 26, 2025
Challenges
Struggles with recruiting and retaining staff in a remote location.
High operational costs due to extended reception hours (7 AM–9 PM).
Need for digital and contactless services.
Inefficiencies from using seven different operational systems.
Results
Reduced reception staff from five to two.
Cut staff costs by 20%, achieving profitability even during quieter months.
Increased online check-in adoption from 0% to 60% in six months.
Streamlined operations by consolidating systems from seven to three.
Solution
Lofthotel implemented LIKE MAGIC in April 2024 to address its operational and staffing challenges. The intuitive platform enabled:
Streamlined Check-In Process: Guests can check in remotely and receive digital keys, minimizing the need for a staffed reception. Reception hours were shortened to 8 AM–6 PM.
Enhanced Communication: Introducing WhatsApp for guest interactions reduced reliance on emails and calls, with 50% of communications shifting to the platform. Automated responses ensured guests received timely support even outside reception hours.
Operational Integration: Consolidated multiple systems into LIKE MAGIC, alongside their Property Management System (PMS) and restaurant reservation software. Housekeeping now uses iPads for real-time updates, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
Sustainability & Accuracy: Automated processes, from billing to maintenance tracking, eliminated manual errors and supported eco-friendly, paperless operations.
Highlights
Real-time housekeeping updates improved room readiness communication.
Automated guest communications elevated the guest experience.
Weekly audits replaced nightly ones, freeing up valuable time for staff.
“Centralizing everything through Like Magic has streamlined our operations. We've reduced the number of systems we use from seven down to three. We’ve achieved break-even during quieter months – something we couldn’t imagine before. With Like Magic, we’ve automated what used to be time-consuming. Our team can now focus on creating meaningful guest interactions." – Therry Wuethrich, Operations Manager, Lofthotel
Conclusion
By leveraging LIKE MAGIC, Lofthotel transformed its operations, achieving cost efficiency while enhancing the guest experience. From seamless check-ins to centralized systems, the hotel now operates more sustainably and profitably. Future plans include integrating additional upselling features like spa bookings and paddleboard rentals to continue elevating guest satisfaction and revenue. Lofthotel demonstrates how innovative technology can empower small hotels to thrive in an evolving industry.
Summary Box
Staff costs reduced by 20%.
Reception team streamlined from 5 to 2.
Online check-in adoption reached 60% in 6 months.
Consolidated 7 systems into 3 for improved efficiency.
