In the hotel industry, the guest experience is a crucial revenue driver. But what is the little secret that creates a memorable experience? Hospitality ON spoke with ADA Cosmetics and their French customer, the Hotel Columbus Monte Carlo.
With over four decades of experience, ADA Cosmetics produces innovative hygienic dispenser systems and high-quality hotel cosmetics that are free of parabens, microplastics, silicones, and other harmful substances. As a global top-three company in the industry, ADA develops, manufactures, and distributes its products worldwide. With a portfolio of 30 brands, including luxury, boutique, and certified natural cosmetics, the industry leader aims to meet the demands of both hoteliers and guests alike. How does this play out in reality?
ADA collaborates with French perfume houses like Chopard, Lalique and ESTÉBAN, as well as Balmain, Amouage, Soapsmith, and more. Additionally, the company creates its own formulas and scents, offering personalized hotel cosmetics for its global customers.
“Currently, there is a clear trend towards sustainable hotel cosmetics in terms of guest expectations and the avoidance of packaging waste,” says Gerd von Podewils, CMO of ADA Cosmetics. “We welcome this development since we have been operating according to environmentally friendly criteria for many decades and are now the number one industry leader in this field.”
ADA Cosmetics was recently recognized by the internationally known Green Key certificate for its Cradle to Cradle Certified®Silver product portfolio − a pioneering achievement in the industry. Green Key sets benchmarks for excellence in the field of sustainability within the tourism and hospitality industry.
The company’s bestselling product, the SmartCare dispenser system, is in high demand and set to replace the small travel bottles in hotel bathrooms, which were legally banned by an EU Parliament decision in April 2024 to reduce plastic packaging. Furthermore, The Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences in Germany confirmed SmartCare’s effectiveness in a recent study, finding zero bacteria in its dispensers.
The innovative dispensers developed by ADA Cosmetics ensure cost savings and waste reduction. For example, SmartCare enables a 75% reduction in plastic usage compared to small portion bottles, resulting in 3.5kg less plastic waste per hotel room per year. Furthermore, both the bottle and lid are made from the monomaterial polypropylene and are fully recyclable.
As travelers become increasingly aware of concerns about waste, packaging, and plastic, a hotel’s environmental commitment is something they strongly appreciate. However, they do not want to compromise on high quality.
“To run a successful hotel, you must guarantee individuality and recognition at the highest level,” says Gerd von Podewils. “These criteria go far beyond the traditional standards of hotel certification, as quality is now clearly defined by what is memorable.” ADA therefore sees it as its mission to offer hotels the best for the guest experience, true to the motto “Putting beauty into travel.”
Guests Delight in Luxury Upgrade: SmartCare System Enhances Experience at Renowned Monte Carlo Boutique Hotel
The Columbus Monte Carlo is located in Fontvieille, just minutes from Monte-Carlo. The spirit of the hotel embodies modern Riviera lifestyle.
Victoria Stevenson, General Manager of the Columbus Hotel Monte Carlo, made a deliberate decision to partner with ADA Cosmetics. In 2023, she received the Manager of the Year award from the Monaco Economic Board for fostering a positive atmosphere in her businesses, prioritising people over qualifications.
Of course, she always keeps the best interests of her guests in mind, too. She chose the Elemis hotel cosmetics collection, a renowned British skincare brand compatible with the innovative SmartCare dispensers.
“The Elemis line includes Hand Soap, Shower Gel, Shampoo, and Body Lotion, known for its premium quality and luxury feel, perfectly aligning with our commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience.”
Regarding the switch to the Elemis hotel cosmetic line, Stevenson explained that implementing ADA Cosmetics products via the SmartCare dispenser system was meticulously planned and executed.
“We selected the Elemis range for its reputation for quality and elegance. Samples were tested in a few rooms to gather initial feedback,” Stevenson said. “We informed our guests about the new product offerings through various channels, including room pamphlets, digital communications, and front desk announcements, highlighting the benefits and luxury of the Elemis collection. After implementation, we closely monitored guest feedback and operational aspects.”
Asked about guest reactions, Stevenson noted, “I am delighted that our guests have appreciated the upgrade to the Elemis collection, noting the luxurious feel and pleasant fragrances of the products. Many have remarked on the quality. The SmartCare dispenser system has also been well-received for its eco-friendly approach, reducing single-use plastic waste.”
She added that the housekeeping team has also positively perceived the transition to ADA Cosmetics and the SmartCare dispenser system, finding the dispensers easier to manage compared to traditional single-use bottles. This has reduced restocking time and waste disposal efforts, providing a cleaner and more hygienic solution for everyone. From a management perspective, the switch has proven cost-effective.
“In an industry focused on personalised service and memorable experiences, choosing the right hotel cosmetics is more than a product decision – it affects guest experience and long-term hotel success,” Stevenson emphasised.
“It is essential that hoteliers have the right partner at their side,” she concluded. “Suppliers need to be fully integrated from design to production and distribution. We are therefore very pleased with our successful partnership with ADA Cosmetics.”
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