Efficient IT Solutions as the Key to Success

Aachen, March 13, 2025 – B&B HOTELS is growing rapidly and relying on innovative technologies to support its expansion. In close partnership with m3connect, B&B HOTELS is optimizing its IT infrastructure and digital processes, utilizing the “Hotel in the Box” solution for fast, secure, and efficient IT integration at new locations.

B&B HOTELS has established itself as one of the leading hotel groups in the value-for-money segment. With a clear vision and an impressive expansion strategy, the hotel chain has positioned itself not only as a favorite for budget-conscious travelers but also as a benchmark for quality and modern hotel concepts.

Since opening its first hotel in Germany in 1998, B&B HOTELS has continuously pursued growth. In 2024, the company reached a major milestone: over 850 hotels across Europe—including Germany, Austria, Italy, and the United Kingdom—were successfully opened or acquired. Particularly in Germany and Austria, the hotel chain continues to pursue ambitious plans, aiming to operate 400 hotels by 2030.

Technological Advancement in 2024: B&B HOTELS Relies on Its Partnership with m3connect

This success is built not only on a strong brand and concept but also on a robust, scalable IT infrastructure that enables B&B HOTELS to meet the demands of modern hospitality. This is where m3connect comes in—a long-standing partner supporting B&B HOTELS in digital transformation and efficiency improvements.

Since 2019, m3connect has been the IT partner of B&B HOTELS, providing a comprehensive range of services from a single source. Their solutions include high-performance WiFi installations, VoIP systems, TV integration, and SD-WAN, all tailored to B&B HOTELS’ requirements. Together, the two partners developed the “Hotel in the Box” solution, which enables a fast and reliable IT integration for new locations.

This all-in-one system consolidates key IT components into a compact network cabinet, including access gateways, RUCKUS switches, UPS systems (uninterruptible power supply), and an LTE modem for a stable, fail-safe internet connection. Additionally, the “Hotel in the Box” solution meets B&B HOTELS’ high-security requirements, ensuring comprehensive network protection. The network cabinet is pre-configured and tested by m3connect, so when it arrives at a B&B HOTELS site, it only needs to be connected to be operational. This minimizes time and costs, reduces technical efforts, and ensures seamless integration of new hotels into the existing IT infrastructure.

Maximum Efficiency: Fast Integration of New Locations

A standout example of this successful collaboration is the rapid connection of 30 hotels to the B&B HOTELS network within a very short time. On one particular day, eight hotels were successfully integrated simultaneously. This project demonstrates how effectively the “Hotel in the Box” solution is deployed in daily operations and how m3connect actively supports B&B HOTELS’ ambitious growth strategy with innovative IT solutions.

“2024 was a great year for our collaboration with B&B HOTELS: over 50 acquisitions, more than 30 renovations, over 30 new locations in Italy, and many other successful projects,” says Karlo Bjelic, Account Manager at m3connect. “With innovative concepts like ‘Hotel in the Box’ and a trusted partnership, we demonstrate how technology can drive growth and efficiency in the hospitality industry.”

As one of Europe’s largest Wireless Internet Service Providers, m3connect supports approximately 17,000 locations in over 27 countries worldwide. For more than 20 years, m3connect has been a pioneer in cloud technologies, continuously expanding its proprietary platform. Utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as WiFi, private LTE, and 5G, alongside solutions like SD-WAN and digital applications, m3connect delivers flexible and scalable solutions tailored to the needs of the hospitality industry.

**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Hotel in the Box – The Smart Solution for a Modern Hotel Network

With B&B HOTELS’ rapid expansion, the need arose for a hotel network that combines resilience, failover security, flexibility, and scalability. The goal was to handle increasing bandwidth demands while seamlessly integrating new locations and applications.

Together with m3connect, B&B HOTELS developed a powerful network that advances the hotel chain’s digital transformation. It features intelligent and redundant data center networking, a flexible SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network), an LTE-based backup solution, and a centralized structure with effective multi-provider management.

At the heart of this development is the “Hotel in the Box” solution, which integrates all essential components into a compact network cabinet. Gateways, core switches, backup systems, as well as PCs, printers, and thin clients, are pre-installed, tested, and shipped as a ready-to-use package. This solution was developed in close collaboration with B&B HOTELS to address space constraints and logistical challenges efficiently while simultaneously reducing costs.

The pre-configured and tested network cabinets are delivered as a complete solution. On-site, technicians no longer need to unpack, install, and configure individual components—the cabinet simply needs to be connected and is immediately operational. This significantly accelerates setup and ensures a seamless integration of new hotels into the existing IT infrastructure.

The “Hotel in the Box” Solution: Efficient and Future-Oriented

The “Hotel in the Box” solution is a prime example of efficient, future-proof IT infrastructure, helping B&B HOTELS navigate the challenges of a dynamic market. Thanks to this solution, 30 hotels were integrated in record time—with eight hotels going live on a single day. This level of efficiency is key to keeping pace with B&B HOTELS’ rapid expansion.

**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

About m3connect

Since 2001, m3connect has become one of Europe’s largest Wireless Internet Service Providers, with offices in Aachen, Karlsruhe, Munich, San Francisco, the United Arab Emirates, and Šibenik (Croatia). Supporting around 17,000 locations across 27+ countries, m3connect has been at the forefront of cloud technologies for over two decades, continuously expanding its proprietary platform.

As a technology leader, m3connect provides best-in-class wireless internet connectivity with flexible designs. The company works with state-of-the-art technologies such as WiFi, private LTE, and 5G, offering innovative software solutions like SD-WAN and various digital applications. Its comprehensive service portfolio includes Digital Signage, Guest Infotainment Systems, VoIP, VoD, and Location-Based Services. m3connect is not just an integrator but a platform developer, ensuring seamless integration into customers’ existing processes.

About B&B Hotels

B&B HOTELS is one of the most important economic hotel groups in Europe. Founded in Brest in 1990, the group has a network of more than 850 hotels in 17 countries in Europe, Brazil and America. B&B HOTELS is positioned in the Value for Money sector and aims to offer its customers comfort and quality at the best value for money. B&BHOTELS has been present on the German market since 1998 and is currently represented with over 220 hotels in more than 110 cities. Further information can be found at bbhotels.com.

**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Press Contact – m3connect

Emina Iljazovic
Marketing & Communications Manager
m3connect GmbH
Pascalstraße 18
52064 Aachen
Tel.: +49 241 980 986 167
E-Mail: e.iljazovic@m3connect.de

For publication or editorial use, please send a copy or notification with a link to e.iljazovic@m3connect.de.

Visit us from March 18-20 at IHTF Europe 2025 | 📍 Booth 28 & 29

The hospitality industry is facing growing challenges—rising guest expectations, digital transformation, and the need for efficient processes. m3connect provides the technological foundation to future-proof hotels. At the International Hotel Technology Forum Europe 2025, we will showcase solutions that integrate networks, IT management, and entertainment into a powerful, unified concept.

Our comprehensive IT solutions for hotel chains

• End-to-end network solutions: Hotels need stable, high-performance networks. We design tailored concepts, implement them, and manage ongoing operations. The result: higher efficiency, less effort, and optimized costs.
• Technical infrastructure for modern hotel management: From routers and access points to TV systems and headend stations, we provide everything hotels need for a secure, stable, and connected IT infrastructure, ensuring seamless interaction between all components.
• Cloudification and virtualization: Less hardware, more control. We seamlessly integrate cloud solutions into existing networks, giving hotels greater flexibility and scalability. Virtualizing applications enhances security while reducing physical infrastructure needs.
• Developing IT standards & ensuring long-term optimization: Standardized IT enables consistent service quality, simplified maintenance, and streamlined processes across all locations. We create customized IT standards that align with hotel processes, operational needs, and growth strategies—ensuring they work long-term and continue evolving.
• Unified IT standards for efficiency and scalability: A standard is only valuable when consistently implemented. We ensure that all locations follow the same IT guidelines, optimizing processes and reducing operational costs sustainably.
• Our conn4 solution: Centrally manage WiFi, infotainment, VoIP, and digital signage while delivering personalized content for a seamless, connected hotel experience.

Introducing our new TV portal

At IHTF Europe 2025, we are also introducing our new TV portal. We look forward to discussing industry trends, exchanging insights, and hearing your feedback!

📍 Visit us at Booth 28 & 29.

On February 11th and 12th, 2025, m3connect will be participating in the International Hotel Technology Forum Middle East & North Africa (IHTF MENA) at the JW Marriott Hotel Marina in Dubai. The event brings together leading technology providers and decision-makers from the hotel industry in the EMEA region to present innovative and forward-thinking solutions. 

Our Contribution to the Future of Hotel Technology: 

At IHTF MENA, m3connect will present a versatile portfolio that helps hoteliers optimize their processes, reduce costs, and enhance the guest experience sustainably. 

Our Competencies at a Glance: 

IT Networking: With our holistic approach, we provide customized network solutions – from planning to implementation. We develop a tailored concept and manage the entire process, from setup to ongoing operation. This ensures maximum efficiency and significant cost savings. 

Technical Equipment: We offer everything your hotel needs: from the right hardware, routers, and access points to modern TV systems and advanced headend systems. Our solutions are based on innovative technologies that not only improve the guest experience but also make operational processes more efficient. 

Cloudification and Virtualization: We seamlessly integrate cloud applications into your network and offer flexible and scalable solutions. Additionally, we enable the virtualization of your applications in our own data centers to further enhance security and flexibility. 

Implementation of IT Standards: By implementing standardized IT concepts, we improve the efficiency of your network structure and enable easy management, maintenance, and troubleshooting. These standards ensure consistent quality and contribute to resource savings and cost reduction. 

Development of Standards: As your partner in optimizing hotel processes, we advise you on developing standards tailored to your needs. Together, we implement these standards to ensure smooth operations across all locations. Even after implementation, we remain by your side to ensure long-term success. 

Our All-in-One Solution for Your Guest Experience: With conn4, our solution specifically designed for the hospitality industry, you can manage guest Wi-Fi, infotainment, VoIP, and digital signage centrally via an easy-to-use dashboard. The integrated Content Management System (CMS) allows you to create marketing campaigns effortlessly and display them on all hotel devices as well as guest devices. 

A first look at our new TV portal: We are also presenting our new TV portal for the first time and look forward to discussing it with you and hearing your thoughts. 

Meet Us in Person! 

Our solutions are already successfully used by leading hotel chains such as AccorInvest, B&B Hotels, Marriott, and many other renowned companies. Get inspired and learn on-site how your hotel processes can be optimized. 

📅 Date: February 11-12, 2025 

📍 Location: JW Marriott Hotel Marina, Dubai 

We look forward to speaking with you!

Today, we are on-site at the IHA to address a critical and growing topic for the hospitality industry: cybersecurity in hotel WiFi networks.
In his presentation, “Secure WiFi in Hotels: Practical Tips for Protecting Your Network When Guests Do What They Want,” Ralf Ander provides practical insights into how hotels can safeguard their networks and minimize risks.

As experts in network security, we assist hotels in developing future-proof WiFi solutions that are both powerful and secure. At the IHA, we are sharing best practices to help hotels effectively protect themselves against increasing cyber risks. We are also offering a practical checklist to allow hotel operators to assess the security of their own network infrastructure.

Here is the event program: Link

We look forward to engaging discussions!