Best Robots for Hotels and Hospitality in 2026

UK hotels face a dual challenge: rising guest expectations and persistent staff shortages. Robots offer a practical solution for room service delivery, lobby concierge duties, cleaning, and guest entertainment. Here are the best robots for each hotel application, all available for hire through roboTED.

Room Service and In-Room Delivery

Pudu BellaBot and KettyBot

Both BellaBot and KettyBot can navigate hotel corridors and use lifts (with API integration) to deliver room service items, extra towels, toiletries, and minibar restocks. BellaBot's four open trays are better for food delivery, while KettyBot's enclosed compartment suits items that need to stay covered or private. Hotels report that robot delivery generates positive guest reviews and social media mentions, adding a novelty factor that differentiates the property.

Lobby and Concierge

SoftBank Pepper

Pepper remains the leading choice for hotel lobby interaction. It can greet guests in multiple languages, provide directions, answer frequently asked questions about the hotel and local area, and entertain children in the lobby. Programme it with your hotel's specific information, including restaurant hours, spa booking procedures, and check-out times. Pepper works best during peak check-in and check-out periods when reception staff are stretched.

Cleaning and Disinfection

CC1 and UVD Robots

For lobby, corridor, and public area cleaning, the CC1 autonomous scrubber operates quietly during off-peak hours. For enhanced hygiene, UV-C disinfection robots can sanitise conference rooms, gyms, and public bathrooms between uses. Several UK hotel groups have adopted UV-C robots as standard practice post-pandemic, positioning it as a guest safety feature in their marketing.

Guest Entertainment and Events

Spot and Ameca

For hotels hosting corporate events, weddings, or conferences, a Spot robot dog or Ameca humanoid creates a memorable experience. These are typically hired for specific events rather than permanent deployment. A Spot greeting guests at a gala dinner or Ameca hosting a product launch in the hotel conference suite creates social media buzz that benefits both the event and the hotel's brand.

Implementation Tips for Hotels

• Start with one application (delivery or cleaning) and expand once staff and guests adapt
• Brief all staff on how the robot works and how to troubleshoot basic issues
• Position delivery robots near service lifts with clear corridor access
• Schedule cleaning robots during low-occupancy periods to avoid guest disruption
• Feature the robot in your marketing and social media to attract tech-savvy guests