Butlin's is introducing self-serve bars across its holiday resorts this summer, allowing customers to pour drinks in as little as six seconds. More than 100 Boxbar machines have been installed at entertainment venues in Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness, making Butlin's the first holiday park to adopt the technology.
How the self-serve bars work
Customers place a cup under the spout, select their drink on the screen and tap their card to dispense. Butlin's claims the process is 360% faster than a human bartender. Over 20 soft and alcoholic options are available, including draught beers, ciders like Madri and Guinness, spirits such as Smirnoff vodka, and cocktails like the brand's signature Butlin's On The Beach.
Improving guest experience
Heidi Watson, head of innovation at Butlin's, called the rollout "an exciting first" for the company, meaning guests can spend "less time queueing and more time enjoying their holiday with family and friends." She added: "Everything we do is about improving the guest experience and our new Boxbar Self-Serve Bars will make a real difference to guests on a family break or a Big Weekender."
Around 1.5 million guests visit Butlin's each year, and some have previously complained about long queues during busy periods like Big Weekender events. On Facebook, Samantha Moss said lines at some Skegness pubs were "ridiculous", while Mart Lloyd called queues at a 00s nostalgia weekend "shocking". Another customer claimed her friend waited an hour at the bar.
Proven technology
Self-serve bars have already been deployed at several sports stadiums. Earlier this season, Southampton FC installed two automated Boxbars at St Mary's Stadium. Butlin's claims each machine can serve up to 2,400 pints per hour.
