Source: Vingcard, an ASSA ABLOY brand
ASSA ABLOY Hospitality

VingCard Elsafe, the global leader in hospitality security and part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, announces that the 269-room Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, has installed the Signature RFID contactless locking solution as a next-generation upgrade from the traditional magnetic-stripe keycard system. In conjunction with the RFID upgrade, Sheraton Grand Edinburgh has also implemented VingCard's VISION software, smoothly interfacing the locking system with the hotel's property management and point-of-sale systems.

Located just steps from Edinburgh's Exchange financial district and its famed Princes Street shopping thoroughfare, the 26-year-old hotel last year underwent a top-to-bottom guestroom refurbishment. To cap off the renovation, the hotel has completed the installation of Signature RFID locks from VingCard Elsafe, which include NFC cell phone compatibility. Signature RFID offers highly reliable security features and unprecedented convenience and ease-of-operation for hoteliers and hotel guests alike. The Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) locks allow for simple, contactless guestroom entry.

Crucially, the system can be easily adapted to Near Field Communication (NFC)-technology that is expected to be in widespread use globally within a few years and which will enable travelers to use their mobile phones as keys. After making a reservation but prior to arrival at the hotel, guests will receive a booking confirmation number, room number and encrypted room key access code through an encrypted message to their NFC-enabled phone, allowing them to bypass the queue upon arrival and go straight to the room, where their phone will unlock the guestroom door.

Signature RFID also provides unmatched control and security, with its 600-event audit trail and innovative anti-cloning software, creating a sense of ease for hoteliers, according to Christian Hénon, president of ASSA ABLOY Hospitality Europe/Middle East/Africa. Additionally, Signature RFID locks offer Signature Grand Edinburgh the opportunity to go green. "The energy-efficient locks require fewer battery changes than traditional electronic locks, meaning less waste and lower battery costs for the hotel," Hénon says.

Meanwhile, Sheraton Grand Edinburgh is further enhancing property security and guest safety with the VISION by VingCard access management system. Compatible with Microsoft Windows Vista and several other operating systems, VISION lets hotel management control exactly who has access to every door on the property, and when, by specifying restrictions within defined user-groups, equating to more flexible access management control than the fixed hierarchical structures common with other access control vendors' systems. And with Plug-and-Play connectivity, an intuitive graphical interface and menu-driven software, VISION is easy to install and to use.

VingCard Elsafe is the world leader in developing locking systems and electronic in-room safes for the hospitality industry, offering user-friendly security systems that meet the unique operational needs of hotels and resorts. For more information, please visit www.vingcardelsafe.com.

About Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh

Refined and restful, the 269 newly-renovated guestrooms of Sheraton Grand Hotel & SPa, Edinburgh, are perfectly suited for both business and pleasure. Subtle Scottish hues have been tastefully blended with contemporary textures, enhanced mood lighting, and beautiful furnishings to create a comfortable, welcoming environment. There is also plenty of substance to our style, with a cutting-edge Bluetooth media hub, WiFi and an interactive television, ensuring a constant connection to the outside world. And after a busy day exploring the Royal Mile, sampling culture at one of Edinburgh’s many museums, or simply watching the world go by from the comfort of a café, guests can always look forward to a great night’s sleep in the hotel's signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper™ Bed. Or, enjoy a long, leisurely soak in the hotel's elegant, glass-walled bathrooms that feature walk-in showers and spacious bathtubs. The hotel also boasts the tranquil One Spa; Santini’s delicious, contemporary take on classic Italian dishes; and breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle. For more information, visit .

About Vingcard

Vingcard is part of ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions, which provides safe and sustainable cutting-edge technology solutions for physical and digital access management control. As a full solutions provider, ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions is part of the wider ASSA ABLOY Group. Being a global leader in access solutions, the Group operates worldwide with 61,000 employees and holds leading positions in areas such as efficient door opening, trusted identities, and entrance automation.

Vingcard is a leading provider of security access solutions and other advanced technologies designed for the evolving needs of the hospitality, off-site student accommodations and build to rent industries. With a commitment to serving as the industry's trusted partner for enhanced security, Vingcard's comprehensive range of integrated solutions are designed to ensure safer, more adaptive business operations able to deliver enhanced efficiency and end-user satisfaction. Vingcard, Your trusted partner for enhanced security.

Ivan Aramayo
Director of Marketing and Communication