The Access Group, a prominent business management software provider with a valuation exceeding £1 billion, has expanded its industry-leading hotel management technology suite by acquiring SHR, a global hotel and casino technology specialist. This strategic move aims to bolster Access Group’s presence in North America and solidify its position as a leading global provider of comprehensive hotel operations, distribution, and guest engagement solutions.
With the addition of SHR to its portfolio, Access Group now offers a comprehensive integrated technology solution for the hospitality industry. The combination of SHR’s capabilities with Guestline, which Access acquired in 2023, provides customers with a seamless digital guest journey and enhanced efficiency and profitability. The enlarged Access Hospitality division will serve over 5,000 properties, empowering hoteliers to design their ideal tech stack to meet their specific needs.
SHR’s technology solutions, including a dynamic Central Reservation System (CRS), Internet Booking Engine (IBE), Customer Relationship Manager (CRM), Revenue Management System (RMS), and digital marketing and loyalty program tools, complement Access Group’s existing offerings. SHR’s innovative use of AI personalization enhances guest experiences and drives direct revenues by increasing conversion rates and promoting upselling and cross-selling opportunities.
Access Group’s ambition to become the preferred technology provider for mid-market hoteliers globally is underscored by this acquisition. By combining SHR’s products with Guestline’s leading Property Management System (PMS) and Access Group’s wider portfolio, including ResDiary, Procure Wizard, Design My Night, Newbridge, Wireless Social, and Maintain, Access aims to deliver unparalleled value to independent hotels and national and regional chains worldwide.
The appointment of former Guestline CEO Andrew McGregor as VP of Accommodation for Access Hospitality reaffirms the group’s commitment to enhancing its position as a leading global business software provider for the hotel industry. This strategic move reflects Access Group’s dedication to delivering world-class products and technological capabilities to empower hoteliers to revolutionize guest experiences, drive operational efficiencies, and increase revenue.
Through this acquisition, Access Hospitality aims to tap into the massive growth opportunity presented by the U.S. market while leveraging SHR’s expertise and innovative solutions to accelerate capabilities and innovation across its products and customer support services. The integration of SHR into the Access Hospitality family further strengthens Access Group’s position as a leader in providing software and services to hotels worldwide, supporting customers with their entire operations and enabling them to deliver exceptional guest experiences cost-effectively, profitably, and sustainably.