Queue No More: QR code entry with Gladstone Go app

4 min read

27-Sep-2023 15:41:48

In the ever-evolving landscape of leisure centres, a seamless customer journey and frictionless access have become the cornerstones of success. While this evolution towards a streamlined approach to leisure management has a rich history, we're here to shed light on the newest game changer – QR codes with the Gladstone Go app.

A Pioneering Past

Let's begin with a nod to the pioneers who set the stage for today's innovations. Forward-thinking operators like ActiveNewham made their mark in 2018 by combining a concierge led and reception-less model with Gladstone360 and hardware partner Alternative Systems Protection (ASP).

Similarly, Glasgow Life and Edinburgh Leisure were amongst the first to implement smart turnstiles, gathering visitor data at entry e.g. 'gym' or 'swim.' In the case of Glasgow Life the concept of smart hardware also extended to keyless lockers; no more pound coins and chunky plastic wrist bands to administer.

Working alongside Gladstone, ASP have been integral to these advancements, with their partnership dating back to 2004 when ASP installed Gladstone's initial access control system in Glasgow. This partnership formed the basis of a strong ongoing collaboration, showcasing a shared commitment to innovative and integrate access control within the Gladstone Leisure Management System (LMS).

Notably, operators report reductions of up to 25% in entry wait times and a 20% increase in overall footfall and repeat visits, directly translating into boosted revenues. This shift towards a concierge-style approach not only meets the needs of customers no matter where they are, but also drives both satisfaction and profitability to new heights.

Introducing the QR Code Revolution

At the Elevate '23 tradeshow, the solution was showcased in its entirety, featuring the integrated QR code solution for the new Gladstone Go app, which was simultaneously launched for both Apple and Android users.

It generates unique QR codes for each user. The magic happens when visitors present their QR codes at the turnstiles. These turnstiles promptly scan and cross-reference the QR codes against Gladstone's system records, ensuring entry only for those with valid credentials. Beyond the convenience, this integration serves as a robust safeguard against membership misuse or sharing.

This innovation is a game-changer for leisure centres. It not only enhances convenience but also empowers front-of-house teams to refocus away from mundane tasks like entry management, allowing them to concentrate on value-added tasks such as retention strategies, concession sales, and customer enquiries.

ASP's Gold partner status in the Gladstone ecosystem signifies their pioneering spirit. The Gladstone Marketplace, a network of more than 20 partners, enables operators to expand the reach and potential of the Gladstone platform to meet their specific needs and requirements.

Embracing Personalised Experiences and Digital Transformation

Operators are now focused on offering rapid join experiences, simplified membership options, and digital orientations through Gladstone's Go consumer platform and marketplace partners.

After implementing a combination of Gladstone and partner solutions a West Cornwall operator witnessed a remarkable transformation, with monthly average membership sales surging from £5k to an average of £19k. Bookable activities also skyrocketed from £2.5k to £10k per month. With projections indicating that by 2025, 90% of bookings will be digitally self-serviced by consumers, the industry is resolutely moving towards a digitally empowered future.

Moreover, partnerships with marketplace providers like ASP are of immense value to operators who aim to expand their digital services. Recently, Gladstone introduced ReferAll, the leading wellness referral provider, into its partner programme. Gordon Watson, Head of Marketplace at Gladstone, says:

“We are delighted to announce our new partnership with the leading exercise referral platform, ReferAll. Easy-to-use and secure, ReferAll’s platform enables health and wellbeing teams to manage referrals for multiple schemes and report on outcomes in real time. Using our new single API, customers on our cloud-based platform will be able to seamlessly integrate the two systems, saving hundreds of hours in admin per year.”

The Power of a Smooth Customer Journey

The importance of a smooth customer journey cannot be overstated. Streamlining access processes isn't just about efficiency; it translates to a seamless customer journey that not only leads to a greater number of visitors, but also results in higher profits and a welcoming environment that encourages community involvement and active engagement with the leisure centre.

Backed by survey data from leisure centre visitors, where 87% affirmed that expedited entry significantly enhanced their leisure experience, the partnership between Gladstone, ASP and its partner network signifies more than just technical integration. It's a transformation of how visitors interact with their leisure centre.

The simplicity and focus of the Gladstone Go app together with its integration with ASP is a straightforward approach that puts the customer at the centre, as the convenience of QR codes, mobile entry and best in breed 3rd party solutions pave the way for a leisure journey that is as enjoyable as the destination itself.

ASP logo

Find out more about ASP turnstiles https://alternativesystemsprotection.co.uk/turnstiles/

Connect with ASP through the Marketplace partner programme for offers and discounts.

Getting started with the Go App and your ASP turnstile is straightforward

Typically, switching to GoApp will involve a simple configuration process that can be handled remotely or with minimal on-site assistance. The Gladstone team, in collaboration with ASP, can provide guidance and support throughout the setup process.

For operators already utilising ASP's access control solutions, the transition to incorporating QR code functionality from the Gladstone Go App is seamless. It's a matter of configuring your existing turnstiles to recognise the QR codes generated by the Go App.

However, in cases where a site visit and assistance from an engineer are required, i.e., for installations older than 2 years, ASP's dedicated support team will ensure a smooth implementation process, which would include a straightforward change of the reader and housing.

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