Robot Waiters Steal the Show at Exphotel 2025 in Cancún

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Automation has transitioned from a futuristic vision to a tangible reality in the tourism industry, as demonstrated at Exphotel 2025, held from June 10 to 12 in Cancún. Among the robotic solutions revolutionizing hotel operations, waiter robots have emerged as a standout innovation.

A Fascination for Tourists and Efficiency for Hotels

"Tourists are fascinated. They love seeing robots in action. They attract a lot of attention and provide efficient, environmentally friendly service," said Valente Torres, Commercial Director of Integral Robotics.

Torres noted that several hotels in the state already utilize robots, primarily for room service and cleaning. These autonomous devices can navigate the hotel independently, call elevators, select floors, notify guests of their arrival, and deliver products without human intervention.

Exphotel 2025 Showcases Cutting-Edge Innovations

The event recorded over 8,500 attendees, featuring more than 550 national and international exhibitors and hundreds of business meetings. Among the most innovative solutions was a cat-designed robot, particularly popular with children, which functions as a runner in restaurants. It transports dishes from one location to another, purrs, and blinks, enhancing the dining experience while supporting staff and reducing physical workload.

Expanding Automation in Cleaning and Beyond

In the cleaning sector, Integral Robotics offers robots for all types of surfaces, from floors to windows. While versions for high-rise applications are still in development, current models automate tasks that previously posed risks to staff, such as cleaning elevated windows. These robots operate independently, equipped with sensors and precision technology.

Currently, the company provides these services to an average of five hotels in Quintana Roo. However, projections indicate that within five years, at least 30% of hotels will incorporate robots into their operations. This shift is driven by multiple factors, including increased efficiency, long-term cost reduction, and addressing labor shortages, which became particularly evident after the pandemic.

Addressing Labor Challenges with Robotics

"Many restaurants, for example, face high staff turnover. A robot doesn’t get tired, doesn’t quit, and can work 24 hours a day," Torres emphasized.

While the initial investment may be significant, Torres clarified that it is not as prohibitive as many assume. He highlighted that the benefits quickly offset the costs, especially in environments where filling all job positions has been a persistent challenge.

"Reach out to us. The technology is ready, and it’s time to implement it now, with the future in mind," he concluded.