Going Global in North America: Keenon's Robots Embark on a Whimsical Journey at Hilton Hotels | Yunqi Capital Tech π

In science fiction, the most common trope after aliens is robots.

Today, science fiction is increasingly becoming reality — human-machine collaboration is unlocking productivity and unleashing creativity. Keenon Robotics, a global leader in commercial service robots, currently operates in over 60 countries and regions, with subsidiaries in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and East Asia, steadily expanding its international footprint.

In this edition of "Yunqi Tech π", we bring you the latest on Yunqi Capital's first-round lead portfolio company Keenon Robotics and its partnership with Hilton Hotels & Resorts.

For more than a century, Hilton Hotels & Resorts has been a benchmark in the global hospitality industry, with over 600 properties across six continents — including the Hilton Washington Dulles Airport.

Notably, this hotel features a distinctive "tavern" restaurant whose executive chef champions a farm-to-table, green, and organic dining philosophy, crafting creative dishes inspired by local produce to offer guests the finest bistro-style cuisine.

▲ Hilton Washington Dulles Airport

To deliver an exceptional dining experience, the Hilton Washington Dulles Airport has innovatively introduced Keenon Robotics' delivery robot T5. So let's hear what Hilton has to say about Keenon robots!

▲ Hilton Washington Dulles Airport Interview

"Having a Keenon smart delivery robot boosts our hotel ratings while cutting costs and improving efficiency"

Hotel Lobby — Reception & Interaction

Walk into the hotel and you'll spot a group of "little guys" hard at work — sometimes "carrying" dishes through every corner of the restaurant, sometimes clearing tables after guests finish dining, sometimes even interacting closely with diners, drawing crowds of diners who gather around to take photos with them.

▲ Keenon robots interacting with guests

Hotel Restaurant — Food Delivery

Hotel staff simply load up each tier of trays with dishes and press the start button on the screen. The robot begins its delivery rounds for the day, shuttling back and forth through the hotel fully loaded with food and beverages — sometimes carefully navigating around people and tables — but always delivering meals and drinks smoothly and safely to guests.

▲ Leave the restaurant delivery work entirely to Keenon robots!

"Since Keenon robots joined our restaurant, staff efficiency has improved significantly, allowing us to focus on delivering higher-quality service to our guests. We've also heard that Keenon Robotics has a professional hotel robot that can assist with reception and guide in-room dining services around the clock. We're excited and looking forward to having this professional hotel robot join our team," said Jason Butler, Director of Food & Beverage.

▲ Jason Butler, Director of Food & Beverage

The Keenon delivery robot T5 features four tiers of trays, each capable of holding 10 kg, with adjustable trays to adapt to different dining scenarios. Even when fully loaded, the Keenon robot dynamically adjusts its optimal route based on the restaurant environment, nimbly avoiding obstacles. With built-in voice announcements and adorable animated expressions, it can also help attract customers, promote dishes, and flexibly supplement various service needs.

▲ Keenon delivery robot T5

With the support of Keenon robots, staff member Maria Baires can confidently delegate dish delivery and plate carrying to the robots, freeing up more time to serve customers, introduce signature dishes, and respond promptly to guest requests.

▲ Staff member Maria Baires

The benefits of Keenon robots in improving the work environment and boosting employee wellbeing are also evident. Staff member Maria Baires notes, "Keenon robots save a lot of time, making my work easier and my mood better. I can be more focused and deliver warmer service when attending to guests."

Hotel Back-of-House — Plate Collection

Currently, Hilton has introduced Keenon robots at multiple properties, and with a comprehensive commitment to elevating the guest stay experience, more locations will welcome Keenon robots to become their most capable assistants.

▲ Who knew Keenon robots could handle plate collection too!

Beyond exceptional food delivery capabilities, Keenon robots are also plate-collection pros, transporting in one trip what previously required three to four trips — smoothly and accurately delivering tableware to the back-of-house.

Globally, the emergence of Keenon robots is introducing a new intelligent workforce solution to service industries worldwide, while also showcasing a vision of future smart living. Keenon Robotics remains steadfastly committed to its mission of "making service work simpler and warmer," building a smarter and more convenient technological life.