When Trend Hunter announced and covered the SleepBox two years ago, the product was still in its infancy; a rash business idea that, although intriguing, might never work. Today, that same venture not only sees the light of day, but also promises to radically change the hotel and hospitality industry.
Doubts abounded about whether a small, 15 minute hotel would be used appropriately. Thus far, the SleepBox installed in the Moscow Airport hasn't been misused and has received nothing but positive reports from passing travelers. Since prototyping, developer Arch Group has changed the construction material from plastic to wood, and the minimum reservation from 15 minutes to a half-hour.
Airport benches are notorious for their unergonomic design, making layovers considerably tougher to endure. But layovers aren't the only problem the SleepBox hopes to conquer. Arch Group intends to introduce these personal motels throughout the city of Moscow.
Temporary Transit Motels (UPDATE)
The SleepBox Debuts in International Airports Around the Globe
Trend Themes
1. Temporary Transit Motels - The trend of creating short-term, personal stay options is a disruptive innovation that meets the needs of people who require rest, but don't want a typical hotel room.
2. Sleepbox Expansion - The expansion of the SleepBox motel system provides opportunities for innovation in both construction materials and minimum reservation times.
3. Personalized Hotels - The future of hotels may be more personalized, with smaller, custom accommodations that cater to the unique needs of each traveler.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality Industry - Airlines and hotels could benefit from offering more personalized, short-term sleeping solutions for customers facing long layovers.
2. Construction Industry - The need to build new, innovative and personalized sleeping solutions may create opportunities for construction companies that are able to take advantage of this emerging trend.
3. Travel Industry - Increasing demand for seamless, comfortable transit experiences could spur innovation in the travel Industry, with a focus on making layovers more enjoyable.