How Hospitality Businesses Use Digital Displays to Upsell

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Step into a modern hotel lobby or a buzzing quick-service restaurant, and your eyes are drawn to vivid digital displays showcasing menus, promotions, or event highlights. These aren't mere decorations they're strategic tools revolutionizing how hospitality businesses connect with guests and boost revenue. From dynamic digital menu boards in fast-food chains to interactive screens in upscale resorts, digital signage is redefining guest engagement while subtly encouraging upsells. In a sector where every touchpoint matters, how are these technologies reshaping the hospitality landscape?

In the United States, where companies like Arcadis, JPMorgan Chase, and CVS Health set high standards, the hospitality industry is embracing digital signage with fervor. A report from Knowledge Sourcing Intelligence forecasts the global digital signage market to expand from $27.496 billion in 2025 to $38.992 billion by 2030, achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.24%. Leveraging technologies like LED, LCD, and projectors, these displays deliver dynamic content videos, streaming media, and real-time information across settings like restaurants, hotels, and corporate venues. Fueled by social media's influence and a demand for immersive experiences, digital signage is becoming a cornerstone for businesses aiming to personalize interactions and drive sales.

The Power of Interactive and Intelligent Displays

Imagine checking into a hotel where a sleek screen offers a tailored spa package with a single tap to book. This is the reality of interactive digital displays, which are transforming guest experiences. Hotels and restaurants are adopting touch-enabled screens that allow guests to browse services, explore menus, or discover promotions in real time. These displays don't just inform they engage, making upselling feel intuitive and effortless.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) elevates this further. AI-powered systems analyze guest data, such as past dining choices, to suggest high-value items like a premium appetizer or a specialty cocktail. IoT ensures seamless connectivity, enabling displays to update instantly say, removing a sold-out dish from a restaurant's menu to steer guests toward profitable alternatives. Mobile apps enhance this ecosystem, syncing with displays to deliver personalized offers directly to guest's devices, creating a cohesive and compelling upsell strategy.

Proven Success: Digital Displays in Action

The impact of digital signage is evident across the hospitality spectrum. Consider Crystalbrook Vincent, a five-star sustainable hotel in Brisbane, which uses digital displays to promote dining options and events, crafting a vibrant guest experience that drives bookings. Similarly, RACV Royal Pines Resort near Surfers Paradise employs signage to upsell golf packages and dining specials, seamlessly blending information with allure. These examples highlight how displays turn casual interactions into revenue opportunities.

Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) are leading the charge. The digital signage market in QSRs is projected to soar from $3.3 billion in 2024 to $12.78 billion by 2034, with the U.S. commanding $1.09 billion in 2024 and a CAGR of 12.2%. Chains leverage digital menu boards to spotlight high-margin items like limited-time combos or premium beverages tailored to time of day or customer preferences. According to Congruence Market Insights, the hospitality digital signage market was valued at $2,478.2 million in 2024 and is expected to reach $4,089.7 million by 2032, with a CAGR of 6.5%. These boards not only boost sales but also streamline operations by eliminating printing costs and enabling instant content updates.

Beyond hotels and restaurants, airports and entertainment venues are capitalizing on digital signage. Airport lounges use displays to promote premium memberships or duty-free deals, while stadiums upsell merchandise and VIP experiences. The outcome? Guests spend more, often without feeling pressured, as the process feels organic and tailored.

Navigating Challenges: Costs, Technology, and Privacy

Despite their potential, digital displays present hurdles. The initial investment covering hardware, software, and integration can be daunting, particularly for smaller businesses. A high-quality system may cost thousands, with ongoing maintenance adding to the burden. EyeIn Technologies, a key player, notes that prospects frequently cite prices too high as a concern, alongside loyalty to competitors like CDW and Newegg, who dominate the tech retail space.

Technical issues pose another risk. A malfunctioning screen or network disruption can derail the guest experience, turning a sophisticated tool into a frustration. Managing content is equally challenging keeping displays fresh and relevant demands time and expertise. Privacy is a critical concern, especially for clients like UnitedHealth Group or ExxonMobil, who prioritize data security. Personalized upselling relies on customer data, but mishandling it risks trust and regulatory penalties under laws like GDPR or CCPA. Businesses must balance customization with compliance to maintain credibility.

The Rewards: Engagement, Efficiency, and Revenue

The benefits of digital signage far outweigh the challenges. These displays captivate guests with stunning visuals, enhancing satisfaction and fostering loyalty. A Poppulo webinar underscores how hotels use screens for virtual concierges, real-time updates, and personalized messaging, creating unforgettable experiences. For staff, digital systems streamline communication, reducing manual tasks and allowing more focus on guest service.

Operationally, digital signage is transformative. Restaurants eliminate the expense of printed menus, while hotels reduce reliance on paper brochures. Real-time customization such as promoting a flash happy hour deal keeps content dynamic and relevant. The financial upside is significant: businesses report higher per-guest spending driven by effective upselling. Business Research Insights projects the hospitality digital signage market to grow from $3.21 billion in 2025 to $5.45 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 6.83%, propelled by improved guest interactions and operational efficiencies.

EyeIn Technologies stands out with its competitive pricing, deep expertise, and broad product range, addressing objections like cost or product availability. This positions them to serve high-profile clients like Procter Gamble and Chevron, who value innovative, reliable solutions over entrenched relationships with competitors.

The Future: Innovating Digital Upselling

The future of digital signage is bright, with advancements in AI and augmented reality (AR) poised to redefine hospitality. Imagine a hotel screen using AR to offer a virtual tour of a premium suite, enticing guests to upgrade, or a restaurant display suggesting meal pairings based on dietary needs. Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook, already leveraged by EyeIn's clients, will further amplify reach, enabling businesses to push promotions directly to guest's feeds.

Success hinges on balance personalization must respect privacy, and technology should complement, not replace, human interaction. Experts advise starting modestly, perhaps with a single high-impact display in a lobby or dining area, to gauge effectiveness. Training staff to maximize these tools and partnering with experienced providers like EyeIn can smooth the transition, ensuring businesses capitalize on this technology's potential.

Digital displays are more than screens they're gateways to smarter, more engaging hospitality experiences. As the industry evolves, those who harness this technology will not only drive upsells but also redefine how guests connect with their brand. In a competitive landscape where every interaction counts, digital signage is a strategic investment that delivers measurable results, setting the stage for a new era of guest engagement.

Disclaimer: The above helpful resources content contains personal opinions and experiences. The information provided is for general knowledge and does not constitute professional advice.

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