Stories

In the world of meetings, spreadsheets, and endless calls and emails, we often forget just how necessary it is to let loose and enjoy ourselves. But our 2023 SALTO Family Day in Oiartzun - Spain, took us all back to much simpler days of having fun surrounded by our friends and family. Held on September 29, it was a lively day full of good food, great music, and an activities list that featured a little something for everyone. 

A much-awaited return

This year, the SALTO Family Day returned for the first time after a long hiatus. Although typically held every two years, the COVID-19 global pandemic brought all of our planning efforts to a standstill. But now that we can come together again, the SALTO Family Day is back, and bigger than ever before.

For this edition, we transformed the SALTO office park into a playground for both kids and adults to enjoy. We made sure to cater to a wide range of ages and interests, including everything from playground games to sports, art, and so much more. 

We also rolled out the red carpet for our attendees and invited them to see where we make the magic happen. The festivities provided a great opportunity to show our family and friends what we do here at SALTO. They learned not just about our departments and teams, but also the types of projects we work on, and how each one of us contributes to our shared success every day.

The whole SALTO team, their families, and many of our friends and partners were in attendance, bringing the grand total to just over 1,000 people.

Something for everyone

During our SALTO Family Day, we hosted a number of lively activities designed for fun and team building. For the children, we created a colourful, action-packed playground along with a graffiti workshop to encourage their creativity. Simultaneously, sports fans were engrossed in their own adventures, which included Basque rural sports, wheelchair basketball, and friendly football matches with some of the players we sponsor from Real Sociedad’s LaLiga Genuine teams.

Beneficial partnerships

The SALTO Family Day celebrations wouldn't be complete without the involvement of various sports clubs and nonprofit organisations. For instance, SALTO’s Bera-Bera wheelchair basketball team kindly taught us the ropes of this unique sport and allowed us to enjoy it firsthand. 

Similarly, the BAT Athletic team helped spark a love for running during our third kids' running race with their endless know-how and passion for the sport.

The presence of the Real Sociedad Genuine players added to the day’s excitement and garnered more visibility for this amazing project. 

A time to give back

Inspired by our ethos of social responsibility, we made sure to highlight some of the community projects we support both regionally and globally. Our work with organisations like UNICEF, Zaporeak, and Salvamento Marítimo Humanitario (SMH) was among the high points of the day. As representatives spoke about some of our initiatives – the aid provided to those affected by the Ukraine war, our projects in Lesbos, Greece, and our support of migrants in the Mediterranean Sea – members of our SALTO team also contributed to the cause through various donations.

Pushing sustainability

As you know, sustainability is at the heart of what we do. So, for the event, we used reusable cups and led a heroic clean-up effort afterwards. Once the SALTO Family Day was over, we also donated all the remaining food and unused materials to charity. 

Until next time…

The SALTO Family Day was a memorable one where deadlines took a back seat and laughter was the only item on our agenda. Throughout the celebrations, our desire to support the vulnerable in our communities and generate long-term positive impact was clear. And as we gear up for the next edition of this inspiring event, we can confidently move forward knowing that we made a meaningful impact in our local communities and beyond.

SALTO Systems recently inaugurated the new Southeast Asia regional headquarters and XSperience Centre at Bugis Junction Tower in Singapore.

SALTO Systems is currently undertaking an ambitious expansion project throughout the Asia Pacific. For years, the company’s innovative products and services have supported its security partners’ extensive operations in the region, and SALTO has progressively sought to conquer new markets in Spain, Germany, the US, and beyond.   

With projects already underway in Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, China, Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, SALTO is well on its way to establishing a notable presence in the Asia Pacific. Undoubtedly, the biggest accomplishment to date is the launch of SALTO’s new Southeast Asia regional headquarters and XSperience Centre in Singapore. Recently inaugurated, the new Asia Pacific HQ promises to be a hub of technology, innovation, and smart access control for our customers and partner ecosystem.
 

Welcome to SALTO’s new XSperience Centre

SALTO has distinguished itself for its high-tech range of products, services, and technologies that have revolutionised the market. With a mission to deliver innovative, reliable, and easy-to-use keyless smart access solutions, it has set new standards in security, manageability flexibility, and design. As Javier Roquero, CEO and co-founder, says, “We turn innovation into reality.”

Founded in Spain in 2001, SALTO now operates offices in over 40 countries and has more than seven million electronic access points and 40 million daily users worldwide. This impressive growth is all driven by meeting one key need. 

“Our business is about keeping buildings as open as possible. But at the same time, we have to be sure that in this very complex world, things are secure.”

Now, SALTO has taken the next big leap forward with the opening of its new regional headquarters for Southeast Asia. Located in Bugis Junction Tower in Singapore, the vast 3,000-square-foot space will serve as the nerve centre for the company’s booming business in the region. For instance, in Singapore alone, SALTO has already served over 500 high-profile clients across various industries, including hospitality, coworking, education, commercial and residential.

The new HQ also features the innovative SALTO XSperience Centre as its crown jewel. This 800-square-foot hub is designed to serve as an interactive testing ground, where partners and end users can experience the SALTO range of electronic locking and smart building management solutions firsthand. By doing so, more people will come to better understand the limitless functionality and benefits that these solutions provide. 

“Growing the team in Singapore and Southeast Asia has really given us the opportunity to provide much better support to our customers and partners. We have very big ambitions for the region.” 

SALTO strengthens market presence in Asia

SALTO has chosen Singapore as its launchpad in the region, owing to its conducive business environment, excellent infrastructure, and highly skilled workforce. More importantly, the country offers strategic interconnectivity with other economies in Southeast Asia.

However, this market also presents a unique set of challenges to consider. Among them are market fragmentation, fierce competition for talent and market share, regulatory complexity, and a limited digital infrastructure. 

SALTO’s new regional headquarters and XSperience Centre could play a major role in helping overcome these barriers. Not only will it give visitors the chance to witness SALTO's products in action, it also intends to offer a fully immersive guest experience – among the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. Experienced sales and technical teams will be on hand to answer any questions and provide expert guidance. There will also be training sessions and seminars on the latest trends and best practices in the access control industry.

“The XSperience Centre is actually a very important centrepiece for our efforts to reach out to the market. Regardless of the language or background, being able to experience the product for yourself is fundamentally key.”

The future of smart access control

SALTO Systems started out as an ambitious dream shared amongst a close-knit group of friends. They were determined to democratise access control and make it more accessible, convenient, and cost-effective. 

“As we were working from a small apartment, we never thought that we would develop a company to the extent that we've done.”

23 years on, those same friends are still at the helm, making major moves in an industry ripe for exploration. Momentum is gathering pace in the access control and smart building sector on a global level. Javier finds this acceleration particularly exciting. 

“We'll have to work on more alliances and partnerships as the industry will expand with new products. In 10 years, there will be a massive deployment of electronic locking on any kind of door, and SALTO will be part of that journey – that’s for sure.”

The SALTO Southeast Asia regional headquarters and XSperience Centre in Singapore is now open to visitors, including security partners, architects, designers, consultants, contractors, and end users. It offers a creative, collaborative environment where ideas develop, businesses grow, and customer relationships are nurtured.

In Singapore, throughout the rest of Asia, and beyond, SALTO supports its partners in delivering keyless access and smart building solutions with a wealth of tools, resources, and training opportunities.

Are you curious to experience our new SALTO XSperience Centre firsthand? We’d be happy to welcome you in person. Get a feel for who we are – our brand, our roots, our technologies, and our solutions – and see how we deliver best-in-class experiences and provide future-proof solutions through technology innovation. Contact us

If you don’t want to miss out on the latest from the world of access control, follow us on LinkedIn and/or Instagram to stay up to date.

Developers, owners, investors, and property managers are seeing an extraordinary change in healthcare real estate playing out in real-time, and for those tuned in to this trend in the market—change means opportunity. This shift, characterized by the migration of healthcare services from traditional hospital settings to Medical Office Buildings (MOBs), is more than a passing phenomenon. For those dialed into these market nuances, this change doesn’t merely signify adaptation but an evolution, opening up new avenues of opportunity, and inviting stakeholders to engage with, and capitalize on, the evolving healthcare landscape.

Population and generational shifts. Breakthroughs in medicine and medical treatments. Adoption of emerging technology. An increased focus on the overall patient experience. Healthcare delivery is transforming rapidly to meet the needs of our changing world. The recent trend of moving services and treatment away from general hospitals and towards medical office buildings is one sign of the industry evolving to meet today's challenges and preparing for what comes next.

The healthcare facilities landscape is shifting to resemble mixed-use and retail environments more than the traditional hospital model. The healthcare industry is evolving to be more community-centric and flexible, seamlessly integrating health and wellness services into the daily lives of consumers. Modern medical office buildings now serve as hubs for medical practitioners, ranging from independent doctors to large hospital networks—much like a shopping mall provides space to a variety of retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Today's MOBs are designed and built to address the needs of the communities in which they are located. With advanced infrastructure and convenient access, these buildings cater to a wide range of patient needs, providing the right care, at the right place, and at the right time. To be successful, they must address each part of the patient's journey (healthy living, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care), which often means many different providers occupy the same building. 

By all accounts, this is a better way to practice medicine—more economical for healthcare systems, more efficient and effective for practitioners, and easier and more convenient for patients. However, unlike other industries, healthcare providers face a number of unique and challenging security issues. Physical safety, patient privacy, HIPAA compliance, and concerns about medication and equipment theft top the list. Implementing modern access control systems in the MOB environment can mitigate these concerns while offering an array of additional benefits that extend beyond mere security.

Forces Leading the Change in Healthcare Facilities

Modern medical office buildings are emerging as an important component of the healthcare ecosystem, but what's fueling the surge in demand for MOBs? A significant driver is the aging population. The 'Boomer' generation isn't just the largest generational group; they're also living longer, increasing the demand for abundant and easily accessible healthcare services.

Another key driver is the continuing advancements in medical technology, treatment methods, imaging, lab capabilities, therapeutics, and other services. These advancements have enabled healthcare organizations to offer an expanded array of outpatient services onsite. As a result, there's a growing need for multiple, decentralized facilities spread across cities, suburbs, and rural regions, moving away from the traditional reliance on one central general hospital.

Additionally, many healthcare systems are shifting away from volume-based care and towards value-based care. A study released by Deloitte points to outpatient revenues growing and surpassing hospitals' inpatient revenue. Now, healthcare providers are exploring strategies to curtail costs while maintaining high-quality care and elevating the patient experience. MOBs present an opportunity to achieve these goals, simultaneously producing new efficiencies and trimming overhead expenses.

Security in Healthcare Should Still Be Top of Mind

Healthcare facilities are some of the hardest buildings to secure properly. They straddle the line between a desire to be welcoming and comfortable, and at the same time employing strict safety, security and privacy protocols.

Medical office buildings face an even more nuanced challenge; unlike hospitals, which typically have 24/7 security staff and layers of physical security technology, MOBs are much more like regular office buildings. It is easy for staff, patients, vendors and visitors to come and go freely. Despite this, security must remain a priority—the consequences of an insecure MOB facility can become serious, even dire in extreme cases. 

Mitigate Risk by Leveraging Modern Access Technology

Modern electronic access control systems are by far the most effective physical security investment a developer, property manager or tenant can make in a medical office building. Far from merely controlling who can enter or exit a building, these systems act as multifunctional facility management tools that reduce risk, streamline operations, bolster security, and ensure compliance.

Here is a list of the top considerations:

1. Reducing Risk - One of the most significant benefits of smart access control solutions is the elimination of traditional metal keys. Electronic locks are not only safer but also more manageable than mechanical keys. This is crucial in a medical setting where security is paramount. Physical keys can be easily lost, stolen, or duplicated. Enhance safety for patients, visitors, and staff, safeguard costly medical equipment and assets, and shield data with the convenience of keyless smart access control.
2. Support Staff - Enhance the working experience for staff. Transitioning from physical keys to smart credentials—be it fobs, key cards, PIN code access, or even smartphone digital keys—frees employees from the stress of dealing with lost, stolen, or misplaced keys. It also alleviates the responsibility of managing or replacing them.
3. Create Efficiencies - These systems represent a substantial leap forward in operational efficiency. Whether it's an employee entrance, an office door, or a drug cabinet, every interaction a staff member makes with an access point is automatically recorded. This eliminates the need for time-consuming, manual reporting and record-keeping. Additional efficiencies can be achieved through integrations with other systems. For instance, visitor management systems can offer self-service capabilities like check-in/check-out kiosks and web portals can increase front-desk efficiency and enhance the visitor experience.
4. Stay Compliant - The digital nature of these systems is also instrumental in staying compliant with regulations. They offer a secure, auditable trail of every access event at every lock or wall reader, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations including CDC, local health departments, Joint Commission and HIPAA. This not only aids in a facility operator’s ability to demonstrate compliance concerning confidentiality and privacy protections but also significantly reduces liability.
5. Emergency Readiness – Many access control systems allow you to immediately lock down specific doors, buildings or entire sites in the event of an attempted unauthorized entry or emergency incident. You can monitor emergencies in real-time and enable localized lockdowns activated by staff on the ground.
6. Liability Mitigation - This robust documentation and reporting capability can also prove invaluable in addressing any potential disputes or malpractice allegations. These benefits provide additional reassurance to doctors and medical staff who could be protected from potential liability.

Looking Into the Future

What else might lie ahead for the MOB market? It may not only be a shift toward outpatient clinics in general but also an increase in repurposed commercial buildings (vacant office space, old strip malls, fast food restaurants, hotels and motels, etc.). Regardless, all evidence points towards the continued evolution of the MOB model.

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, so will modern access control systems. They are complex data and facility management tools that will streamline operations and administration, enhance patient and staff experiences, and provide crucial peace of mind for families.

While primarily designed for safety and security, these systems offer far more than just locked doors. Today’s access control technologies are reshaping how we live, work, and interact with our physical spaces. By eliminating traditional keys, automating record-keeping, and offering a secure and auditable means of accessing sensitive areas, assets and information, this technology is helping shape a new era in healthcare.

The future of MBOs and medical campuses lies in leveraging new technologies and rethinking how we interact with these environments, always focusing on the ultimate goal—creating a safe and secure environment for people who need care and for the people providing it.

Looking to learn more? Click here to discover SALTO’s smart access solutions for Healthcare, and follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram for the latest updates
 

GSX 2023 in Dallas has wrapped and the SALTO Systems North America team successfully showcased how our technology delivers inspired workspaces from the office to the field. 

Visitors to the SALTO GSX booth were welcomed by the BlueEntrance Space ID Visitor Management platform, then advanced to use Gantner’s contactless technology, and ultimately got to experience SALTO access management that delivers networked, cloud, and mobile solutions. It was an immersive journey for prospective and existing users that showed how SALTO technology provides a frictionless, keyless solution wherever your office may be.

Best smart access solutions with the latest in locking systems

The booth showcased SALTO’s best smart access solutions with the latest hardware options including our flagship XS4 Original+, XS4 Mini, and Design XS Readers to control lifts, sliding doors, or electronic gate doors to provide your facility with a complete security solution. To illustrate the ability to provide access for workspaces from the office to the field – literally – the team presented a lineup of SALTO’s electronic padlocks, the Neoxx G3 and G4. The SALTO Neoxx padlock line provides the latest industrial-grade smart padlocks loaded with the latest technology and built to withstand extreme environments. 

Colin DePree, SALTO Systems North America Sales Strategy, gave an impressive presentation on the GSX X Stage. DePree shared his insight on Accessing Tomorrow’s Inspired Workspaces, covering how workspaces have radically transformed into a permanent era of hybrid work for many. Technology leaders like SALTO have led this transformation by providing access to technology that allows people to work and manage access from anywhere.

“Access control is no longer purely about control. It’s now about enabling access to an experience,” said DePree. “Access control should never be an organizational hurdle but rather an opportunity to innovate. Leveraging modern access control technology allows organizations to improve business processes, identify efficiencies, optimize operations, and ultimately unlock potential strategic value.”

SALTO hosted an evening reception at The Exchange Hall, providing entertainment, appetizers, drinks, and an opportunity for showgoers to unwind after a busy day on the trade show floor. Thanks to all who took the time to attend!

To stay updated on upcoming trade shows, training, and other opportunities to learn more about our inspired access solutions face-to-face, visit the SALTO events page.

September 25, 2023, marks the eight-year anniversary of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

September 25th marks the eighth anniversary of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This is the midway point for attaining the 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development. Everything we make impacts the planet and its people, and this milestone presents an opportunity for organizations like ours to reflect on our contributions to the SDGs and the value they provide to society. 

The UN SDGs provide us with a map to identify our social, environmental, and economic impact. Since joining the UN SDG initiative in 2020, SALTO has worked on the establishment of sustainability guidelines and principles for our new technologies, developments, and operations. In doing so, we have reinforced our commitment to positively impacting our planet. We believe that ensuring social inclusion and an accessible circular economy aligns with our sustainability principles and works towards helping us achieve this objective.

SALTO’s sustainability commitment: Creating shared value for the environment and society.

Our commitment to sustainability is illustrated by our work to advance accessibility and the well-being of underserved people through our efforts like our Free2Move.org social initiative, to promote accessibility for people with disabilities, to promote sport as a healthy habit, and to improve the living conditions of the most vulnerable people in the places where SALTO is present. We also continually work to overcome environmental challenges in our operations to minimize our environmental impact. As a result, SALTO is 100% carbon neutral at our factory and across our locations. This has been accomplished by accelerating our sustainability journey to help reduce the impact of our emissions.

We prioritize sustainability in our supply chain, products, and operations, which has created value for the environment and society. We have actively supported the UN SDGs through social, environmental, and economic responsibility and our commitment to a circular economy. 

SALTO initiatives help advance progress on UN SDGs, addressing many of society's challenges. 

SALTO contributes to achieving the UN SDGs through our sustainability efforts and activities by defining a Sustainability Strategy aligned with the SDGs, incorporating a specific Climate Change Policy, and by regularly renewing the materiality analysis based on stakeholder and market needs. SALTO has undertaken a profound commitment and transformation towards an increasingly sustainable model to respond to environmental and societal impacts. This is in addition to facing the challenges of the access control and security market. By proactively responding to social issues and developing responsible corporate policies demonstrating our commitment to business ethics, transparency, regulatory compliance, and information security through the development of appropriate codes of conduct, SALTO contributes to achieving specific SDG objectives.

Adopting the UN SDGs has emphasized SALTO’s commitment to aligning our operations with the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact. These principles are universally accepted in human rights, labour safety standards, the environment, the fight against corruption, and adopting measures supporting the UN SDG objectives. SALTO has joined thousands of companies worldwide in carrying out business actions and responsible corporate policies and practices to create a better world. The UN SDGs represent a universal commitment to deliver on 17 ambitious Global Goals for people and the planet by 2030 to achieve a more sustainable future for all. 

SALTO’s sustainability efforts and activism contribute to several SDGs, including those listed below:

We seek to advance the UN SDGs and contribute to a sustainable future that is truly for everyone. We encourage others to make a commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

To learn more about SALTO's sustainability efforts, initiatives, and values, visit our SALTO Sustainability – ESG and Free2Move.org web pages.

#togetherfortheSDGs

Local, a Melbourne-born Build to Rent business and SALTO are creating a closed-loop lifecycle for spent batteries within Local’s communities. 

In today's world, the importance of sustainability cannot be overstated. Buildings and properties across various industries are taking bold steps to minimize their carbon footprint and impact in cities and promote responsible practices. In line with this commitment, Melbourne-born Build to Rent business, Local, and SALTO, have joined forces to create a closed-loop lifecycle for spent batteries within Local's communities. This partnership aims to tackle the issue of battery waste through responsible recycling practices. Let's explore how Local and SALTO are building sustainable communities together.

SALTO becomes B-cycle accredited battery steward.

SALTO Oceania is now a proud B-cycle Accredited Battery Steward via the government-approved Battery Stewardship Council’s (BSC) B-cycle Scheme. SALTO pays a voluntary levy on the lock batteries it imports into the country to fund the B-cycle scheme.  

As part of their joint commitment, SALTO and Local have partnered with Ecobatt, a BSC-endorsed battery recycling company based in Melbourne, to set up recycling receptacles at Local’s flagship apartment project in Kensington, to ensure that all the spent batteries within its community, including those from SALTO smart locks, are recycled responsibly. 

Commitment to environmental properties and Net Zero operations.

SALTO and Local are deeply committed to creating sustainable living spaces that prioritize the environment. The buildings are set up to operate at net zero, meaning they strive to produce minimal waste, maximize renewable energy utilization, and improve the overall connection, comfort, and quality of the community.

“Every element of a Local project is designed with the environment in mind to improve the connection, comfort, and quality of the community in and around it,” said Dan McLennan, Local Co-Founder and Co CEO. “Our buildings are set up to operate at net zero. They will be fully electric and will utilise maximum renewable energy while producing minimal waste, so ensuring that SALTO could guarantee that our on-premises batteries were going to be recycled was a non-negotiable for us.”

By providing Ecobatt recycling receptacles at Local Kensington, Local, and SALTO are ensuring that all of the community’s batteries, including those within its smart access control system, can be recycled in the most environmentally responsible way possible at Ecobatt’s state-of-the-art facilities in Campbellfield. 

"At SALTO, we too are 100 percent committed to sustainability and reducing our impact on the environment," said Cedric Duigou, SALTO APAC Living Spaces Lead. "When Local approached us to explore the recycling of our lock batteries, we were excited to implement this initiative together.” 

Creating a closed-loop lifecycle for responsible battery recycling.

To extend the initiative beyond its residents, Local will grant the general public access to Ecobatt receptacles placed in the staffed lobby, along with communication and education programs, to encourage wider community involvement in the scheme. 

Lithium Australia stated that more than six million kilograms of alkaline batteries are consumed nationally each year. In 2019, the BSC estimated that, at the end of their useful life, 97 percent of those batteries were disposed of in municipal waste streams and reported to landfill.

Since its inception in January 2022, however, the B-cycle Scheme has collected and recycled over three million kilograms of spent batteries. 

SALTO is committed to providing clients, like Local, with the highest level of security and convenience while also taking steps to reduce its impacts on the environment. 

For more information about Local and SALTO smart access solutions for Residential, and their commitment to sustainability, please visit www.localresidential.com.au or contact us

To discover more about The Battery Stewardship Council (BSC) and Ecobatt, please visit www.bsc.or.au and www.ecobatt.com.au.

World Humanitarian Day is celebrated annually on Aug. 19 to raise public awareness about humanitarian aid workers and volunteers risking their lives to provide aid and assistance to people affected by conflicts, disasters, and crises around the world. This year’s theme, #NoMatterWhat highlights the Humanitarians are united by a shared mission to save and protect lives.

SALTO has a strong commitment to sustainability and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We support our own social initiatives like our Free2Move.org campaign and collaborate with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like Zaporeak, Salvamento Martitimo Humanitario, and others to advance SDGs and contribute to a sustainable future for everyone. Through our wide range of programs, partnerships, and initiatives, we’re committed to making a positive impact on the world.

Deliver Humanitarian Aid

We collaborate with organizations to make a positive impact and support social causes. By actively engaging with volunteer associations, foundations, and NGOs, we aim to contribute to the betterment of communities and promote social well-being.

These collaborative partnerships enable us to support various social initiatives, such as promoting education, healthcare, sustainability, and humanitarian efforts. Through our involvement in sports programs and community-driven projects, we strive to make a difference and create a positive change in society.

An excellent example of our support are:

• Salvamento Maritimo Humanitario (SMH). SMH is an association of volunteers that has been responding to the humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean since 2015. They are dedicated to providing basic needs like food, water, shelter, sanitation, and medical care to people in crisis.
  
  ​​Since 2014, there have been more than 20,000 deaths and disappearances in the Mediterranean Sea. Fishermen frequently find the dead bodies of migrants with many more yet to be discovered. 
  
  Poverty, violence, and conflict – as well as various forms of instability – are the driving forces behind migration. For many migrants, leaving their home country with nothing but a bag on their backs is not a choice but a matter of survival. Africa continues to experience ongoing instability and conflict that has led to the displacement of a million people. 
  
  SMH’s work begins when it sees a boat that is in danger. The team begins its expedition toward the boat and attempts to rescue the people on board. SMH operates several projects such as the sanitation project in Chios in Greece called "Archivald Dickson." This project provides essential healthcare and sanitation facilities to refugees stranded in Chios, enabling them to live in a safe and healthy environment.
  
  By working closely with organizations like SMH, SALTO demonstrates its dedication to social responsibility and its commitment to supporting communities in need. Through our collective efforts, we aim to create a more sustainable and equitable future for everyone.
   
• Ukraine war. SALTO also worked with the Unaweze Polish Foundation, The Wez.Pomoz.pl Foundation, Unicef and Chernobilen Lagunak NGOs to help Ukraine war victims – innocent children – find safe refuge in Poland. 
  
  Given the devastating situation in which Ukraine finds itself, SALTO has worked on the development of an emergency humanitarian campaign to help the different social entities that are giving support to the affected people and refugees in the countries bordering Ukraine.
  
  Thanks to SALTO’s help and generosity, and donations from the SALTO team, as well as a company contribution, we raised close to 151.484 €. These funds helped address the most immediate needs of this humanitarian emergency. They provided essential assistance, safe transport of children and families, therapeutic activities, medical treatment, and food and housing for numerous foster families. 
   
• Türkiye-Syria Earthquake response. There was a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake near the Türkiye-Syria border in the early hours of Monday 6 February 2023.
  
  The earthquakes that have affected Syria and Turkey have already left more than 27,000 people dead and 60,000 injured. The situation in which the population lives is critical, one that has been hit by the protracted war in Syria and by a major humanitarian crisis caused by the forced displacement of thousands of people.
  
  From SALTO, together with the Zaporeak and Alboan NGOs, we collaborated in the emergency protocol deployment they activated to care for the most affected people, especially in the refugee camps. Zaporeak and Alboan volunteers through other NGOs with which they collaborate helped by providing health resources, clothing, and food distribution. To assist in this effort, SALTO donated 6,500 Euros, 300kg of food, and 400 kg of warm clothing.

World Humanitarian Day 19 August

On World Humanitarian Day, we honor the aid workers and professionals, as well as crisis-affected people who work tirelessly to provide health care, shelter, food, protection, water, and much more to those in need. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the humanitarian spirit and raise awareness about the importance of supporting those who help others.

This year, our World Humanitarian Day campaign brings together the global humanitarian community. Humanitarians have no other purpose than to save and protect lives and deliver the basic necessities of life, they stand shoulder to shoulder with the communities they serve and bring hope.
 

Our commitment to sustainability to achieve the SDGs

As we celebrate World Humanitarian Day, let’s remember the importance of supporting and recognizing humanitarian aid workers who risk their lives to bring hope and assistance to those in need, and reaffirm our commitment to building a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Through the wide range of programs, partnerships, and initiatives we support, SALTO seeks to advance the UN SDGs and contribute to a sustainable future that truly is for everyone.

Because we’re a leading provider of Hospitality access solutions, we really look forward to HITEC, which is put on each summer in North America by our friends at the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) organization.

HITEC in Toronto did not disappoint!

HITEC Toronto exceeded our expectations, offering a vibrant platform for industry professionals to gather and explore the latest trends and innovations in the hospitality sector. Together, with our Technology Partners, we deliver comprehensive solutions that unite access control, security, property automation, software, hospitality operations, and much more in an all-in-one integrated technology platform. The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, and technology is increasingly becoming essential to enrich the guest experience.

Our booth – one of 325 companies on the HITEC trade show floor – attracted significant attention as we showcased our cutting-edge hospitality smart access solutions and integrations. Our mobile access credentials like Apple Wallet (which provides a secure keyless and contactless digital experience) got a lot of attention in the booth, as did our stylish electronic hotel locks and premium handle finish options

HITEC was a great opportunity for us to showcase our advanced and aesthetically-designed hospitality-specific electronic access control solutions that set a new standard in the industry.

Recognition and insightful presentations

We were thrilled to receive the prestigious Hospitality Upgrade magazine Innovative Technology award which recognizes our commitment to groundbreaking hardware and software advancements.

And, as usual, HFTP put on an excellent show. Keynote speaker Shawn Kanungo, best-selling author and innovation strategist, gave an energetic presentation on strategy in a world of disruption and a rundown of the latest trends and technologies in hospitality. One thing that stuck out from Shawn’s presentation: Innovation is 90% psychological and 10% technological. We can do it if we put our minds to it!

During HITEC, HFTP inducted two champions of hospitality technology into the International Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame: Datavision Technologies founder Sherry Marek and Unifocus founder Mark Heymann. They were recognized for innovating a pioneering technology solution specific to hospitality. 

Looking ahead to HITEC 2024 in Charlotte

We look forward to seeing you at HITEC in Charlotte, North Carolina, next summer. In the meantime, let us know if you have any questions about our hospitality electronic access solutions. If you’re new to SALTO hospitality solutions, we invite you to visit the Hospitality section of our website. We offer smart building access that delivers the latest and best ways to secure guests, manage staff, and protect assets. From back-of-house to guest rooms and facility access management to locker room storage, SALTO hospitality solutions provide one easy-to-use system for hotels of all types and sizes.

Tell us about your project and style, and SALTO will match you with the right designer handle and door hardware to create a design that fits your property’s personality. Follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram for the latest updates.

In the past decade, Senior Living communities have undergone a profound transformation, driven by advances in technology. These developments are enhancing the quality of life for residents, improving staff efficiency, and providing peace of mind for families. 

One area significantly impacted by this digital transformation has been the adoption of modern electronic access control systems. Far from merely controlling who can enter or exit a building, these systems act as multifunctional facility management tools that streamline operations, bolster security, and ensure compliance. Today’s access control platforms are creating safer, more efficient living and working environments, ultimately revolutionizing the way senior living communities function.

The Resident and Staff experience with smart locks

One of the most compelling advantages of modern smart access control solutions is their ability to significantly enhance the experience of both residents and staff in senior living communities. The replacement of physical keys with smart credentials—fobs, key cards, PIN code access, or even smartphone digital keys—relieves residents from the worry of lost, stolen or misplaced keys and removes the burden from the staff of managing or replacing them. 

These systems represent a substantial leap forward in operational efficiency. With electronic access control systems, every interaction a staff member has with a resident's living quarters is automatically logged. This eliminates the need for time-consuming, manual record-keeping. The time they save can then be redirected towards more meaningful interactions with residents, enhancing the quality of care provided.

Improve your staff experience and simplify your senior living facilities' security access control. Empower employees with convenient, smart key access to the locations they need. Add or revoke authorizations in real-time. Support long-serving or high-value staff, enjoy the flexibility to grant individual access privileges to share living space, resident rooms, back offices, etc., with digital keys or smart credentials giving employees the peace of mind and confidence of working in environments protected with robust security during and after business hours.

Moreover, this transparent record-keeping system offers reassurance to families about the regularity and quality of care their loved ones are receiving. It also eliminates any ambiguity about staff-resident interactions, fostering a trust-based relationship between the staff, residents, and their families.

Senior housing technology: Enhanced security, compliance, and privacy

Advanced access control systems aren't just about convenience and operational efficiency; they also play a pivotal role in safeguarding the residents, property and assets, and critical resources within senior living communities. By setting user permissions, these systems can limit access to sensitive areas like medication storage or patient records to authorized personnel only. This added layer of protection significantly enhances the overall security within the community.

The digital nature of these systems is also instrumental in ensuring stringent compliance with regulations. They offer a secure, auditable means of accessing resident records, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This not only aids in a facility operator’s ability to show proof of compliance with regard to confidentiality and privacy protections but also significantly reduces liability. These benefits provide reassurance to both the residents and their loved ones.

Audit trails and location tracking: Tools for personalized care

Beyond bolstering security and compliance, modern access control systems can also provide a comprehensive audit of where residents have gone within the community. Whether it's a trip to the pool, a visit to the cafeteria, or time spent in other communal areas, these systems can track and record residents' movements.

This feature serves as a valuable tool for understanding residents' habits, preferences, and routines. Such insights can help staff to tailor care plans and activities according to individual resident preferences, enhancing the overall resident experience. It also allows staff to quickly locate residents in case of emergencies, further enhancing safety within the senior living community.

Addressing liability tactfully and effectively

While discussing the multifaceted benefits of electronic access control systems, it's essential to tactfully address the issue of liability mitigation. These systems do more than offer security and ensure regulatory compliance; they offer a transparent, verifiable record of staff interactions with residents, resident interactions with other residents, access to medications, and resident movements throughout a property or facility.

Access control systems are an essential part of any senior living property operations and security. They allow you to keep track of who is coming into your building, where they're going, and how long they have been inside. This can help ensure that unauthorized people cannot gain access to sensitive areas of your facility.

This robust documentation and reporting capability can prove invaluable in addressing any potential disputes or concerns. By reducing potential ambiguity or he-said-she-said scenarios and always being armed with clear evidence through the audit trail, an operator can feel confident they are limiting potential liabilities while also providing the highest level of care for residents. 

Unlocking the future and beyond

Modern electronic access control systems are revolutionizing senior living communities. We are on the brink of the largest senior population boom in our history—and with it, the demands that it will create for these communities and care facilities. It may be serendipity, fortuitousness, or, perhaps plain coincidence, but innovations in access control technology are reshaping how we live, work, and interact with our physical spaces at the time we need it most.

While primarily designed for safety and security, these systems offer far more than just locked doors. By eliminating traditional keys, automating record-keeping, and offering a secure and auditable means of accessing sensitive areas, assets and information, this technology is shaping a new age in senior care. They are complex data and facility management tools that will streamline operations and administration, enhance the resident and staff experiences, and provide crucial peace of mind for families.

The future state of senior living lies in leveraging new technologies and rethinking how we live and work in these environments, always focusing on the ultimate goal—enhancing the lives of residents.

Looking to learn more? Click here to discover SALTO’s smart locking solutions for Home Care / Assisted Living, and follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram for the latest updates

Reimagine the guest experience with a simple, smooth check-in process that will have guests coming back to your hotel every time. Delivering a memorable guest experience is essential for any hospitality property, if not only to benefit from word-of-mouth and positive reviews on travel platforms. And while implementing a new guest check-in process can be stressful, it’s also important to note that there is a huge difference between simply registering a guest and welcoming them to your facility. Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel valued and appreciated as they arrive, check-in, and pick up their keys is the most crucial part of the guest journey. So although you might think self-check-in systems in hotels sound futuristic, remember that people have long been checking in online for flights. 

After three years of a global pandemic, the importance of digitizing the guest experience has become clear. Guests now prioritize safety and health more than ever before, and the hospitality industry has had to adapt to meet these needs. Contactless technologies, such as mobile or self-check-in kiosk terminals and digital keys, have become essential in providing a safe and secure environment for guests and staff alike. However, it's not just a question of safety – a digitized guest experience also offers greater convenience and efficiency, enhancing satisfaction while improving the check-in experience overall.

With the ability to optimize, streamline, and accelerate both remote and on-site guest check-ins using a simple tool that can be integrated with your property management system (PMS) and channel manager platforms, you can ensure a seamless experience – right from the moment guests walk through your doors.

Benefits of self check-in hotels

Simplify and automate operations to make your guest's check-in experience a breeze. Enhanced efficiency and security are guaranteed with SALTO Hospitality solutions. You will enjoy complete control over your facility from a single fast and secure hotel management platform that allows you to manage every aspect of your check-in process professionally and effectively. What’s more, SALTO Hospitality solutions can be seamlessly integrated with your existing hospitality management tools, among a host of other benefits including:

1. Reduced check-in times. 
   Guests can complete check-in within a matter of minutes, rather than waiting in line at the front desk. This not only improves the guest experience but also frees up hotel staff to focus on more important tasks.
    
2. Increased efficiency. 
   Automate most steps of the check-in process, allowing staff to spend less time on administrative tasks and instead focus on providing excellent customer service. This will lead to a warm welcome for arriving guests.
    
3. Improved guest experience.
   By providing a smooth, seamless check-in experience, hotels will improve their overall guest experience. This can lead to higher levels of guest satisfaction, loyalty, and positive reviews.
    
4. Security and safety.
   Leveraging advanced access control technology and integration with other hotel systems provides a safe and secure environment for guests and staff alike, ensuring peace of mind throughout the stay.
    
5. Streamlined operations. 
   Automating check-in processes can help reduce errors and streamline front-office workflows, leading to a more efficient and effective hotel operation.

Smart hotel technology: business cases

Salto Hospitality’s integrated access control system is a single point of entry for guests across all types of accommodation, including boutique hotels, resorts, hostels, B&Bs, lodges, and large hotel groups. It allows guests to use their room key at any door throughout the property, from their rooms to perimeter or facility access and hotel amenities.

SALTO's automated mobile check-in solution allows visitors to check in using their mobile devices. They can complete the check-in process, receive their room key, and even pay for their stay – all by using their smartphone. Easy integration with other technology partners gives you the option of combining the tool with third-party services to boost efficiency and security. This ensures convenience for guests and reduces the workload for staff members.

• Streamlining safety and security at the door
  SALTO provides a whole host of features and benefits designed to improve the guest experience, streamline operations, and increase security. Extend smart access beyond hotel rooms and apply it throughout your property. Deliver seamless, hassle-free access to entrance and perimeter access doors, elevators, gyms, business areas, parking, and more. Guests, staff, and visitors can use their smart key, or mobile device as a digital key, to access any door that is equipped with SALTO's technology. This provides guests with seamless and convenient keyless access at any door – making the need for multiple keys or access cards a thing of the past.
   
• Level up your guest experience with digital keys
  Give your guests a fully digital and connected experience by allowing them to check in or out, make changes to their stay, and access any facility in seconds – all from their smartphone.
  
  The use of digital keys offers several benefits for both guests and staff alike. Visitors no longer need to carry around keys or keycards, eliminating the risk of losing or misplacing them. It also provides a more convenient way to check in and out, as guests can simply use their mobile devices to gain access to their rooms.
   
• Sync registration data
  Automatically sync PMS registration data to any SALTO smart access platform, or use the SALTO web app’s intuitive software interface to streamline front-office workflows and processes, allowing for faster check-in. 
  
  Salto's electronic locking systems can be integrated with many hotel property management systems, enabling hotel staff to automate the check-in process and cut down on the time it takes to assign rooms and issue keys. With this integration, guests can receive their room key as soon as they arrive at the hotel, without the need to wait in line at the front desk.
   
• Reduce check-in times
  Speed up the group check-in process. Allow people traveling together to check in all at once and simultaneously avoid long waits to start their holiday.
  
  The adoption of self-check-in systems is on the rise around the world.  Hotels can now feasibly offer a fully online self-check-in experience using contactless mobile solutions or self-check-in kiosks. Place self-service check-in technologies integrated with SALTO Hospitality solutions at your hotel front desk to guarantee a fully automated processing service alongside the classic welcome reception.
  
  Overall, SALTO Systems' Hospitality solutions offer a broad range of integrations that can help speed up the check-in process and provide guests with a smoother, more streamlined experience. By leveraging mobile access technology and integrating with existing PMS systems, SALTO helps hotels improve operational efficiency and enhance the guest experience.
   
• Extended stay
  Give your guests the ability to easily request an extension without the hassle of visiting the front desk. Once their request has been approved and their booking amended, they will immediately be notified of their updated stay details.
   
• Re-rooming
  With SALTO's electronic locking systems, hotel staff can quickly and easily update access rights to guests’ rooms in real-time. This means that if a guest needs to change rooms, hotel staff can deactivate the guest's access rights for the old room from the front desk and activate access rights for the new room – all with a single click. This process can be completed in a matter of seconds and gives guests immediate access to their new room without having to switch keys or keycards.

The hospitality industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, and the digitalization of the guest check-in experience is now more critical than ever before. Smart hotel check-in solutions – such as those offered by SALTO Systems in conjunction with our Technology Partners – provide an array of benefits, including increased efficiency, enhanced security and safety, and, crucially, a next-level guest experience. 

Provide the modern, easy access option guests are increasingly coming to expect with the use of digital keys or key cards, which offer convenient, secure, and instant access. With SALTO Hospitality’s integrated access control system and automated mobile check-in solutions, guests can enjoy a seamless and convenient check-in experience while hotel staff can focus more on delivering excellent customer service. With guest satisfaction naturally at the heart of any successful hotel business, smart check-in solutions can prove to be a real game-changer for the hospitality industry, and SALTO Systems is at the forefront of this revolution.

Looking to learn more? Click here to discover SALTO’s smart locking solutions for the Hospitality industry, and follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram for the latest updates.