The Savoy has announced a partnership with Alipay, China’s leading third-party mobile and online payment platform.
The property will become be the first luxury London hotel to implement Alipay across the entire hotel, as well as Simpson’s in the Strand.
The Savoy is a Fairmont managed hotel and part of the AccorHotels network.
With China being the world’s biggest third party mobile payments market, and with Alipay providing service to 520 million people who use mobile payment when they travel in the EU, The Savoy recognises the need to offer this fast, secure, and cashless payment service to its Chinese guests and once again will lead the way in the Luxury Hotel market.
Speaking about the partnership, Philip Barnes, managing director of The Savoy, commented: “We are delighted to be partnering with Alipay, and to be the first luxury London hotel to embark on such a partnership.
“London is the favourite destination for Chinese tourists coming to Britain and we at The Savoy want to ensure that we are offering a seamless guest experience that touches on every element of their stay, including their preferred methods of payment.”
Alipay, run by Alibaba’s financial arm Ant financial, has been developing partnerships with major luxury retailers in London since the platform launched in Europe in 2016, so this is a natural evolution.
“We are excited to see Alipay’s partnership with The Savoy, which allows Chinese tourists coming into London to enjoy the ultimate accommodation and dining experiences.
“It’s the perfect match between 19th century culture and 21st century technology,” commented Li Wang, head of Alipay EMEA.