Cloud startup Keypr wants to make it easy for hotels to build mobile experiences for their guests, and today the Los Angeles-based company announced that it has just closed a $12.8 million funding round to expand its platform.

Founded in 2013, Keypr provides a software as a service platform for hotels that allows their guests to check in, unlock their room and order services all through their mobile devices.

The platform also provides businesses with a guest experience management system that tracks a wide range of valuable metrics, such as the most-requested guest services, average response times and so on. In addition to the mobile app, Keypr also offers apps for tablets that can be installed in each hotel room for guests who do not want to have to download an individual app just for the hotel.

“Guest expectations in terms of service and experience have changed immensely,” said Nizar Allibhoy, Keypr’s chief executive and co-founder. “We see this being addressed in ground transportation, airlines and online travel agencies, but the hotel sector has been slower to respond. Keypr’s ability to deliver personalized services, send offers and upgrades instantly and, most importantly, fix problems in real-time is essential in a marketplace that is so competitive.”

Keypr says that it will use its new funding to develop its IP and operational scaling, as well as to further develop its software platform. One feature the company plans on adding is voice control functionality for guests. Rudy Karsan, founder of Karlani Capital, said that Keypr has created “the most comprehensive platform that exists in the hospitality industry today.”

Simon Turner, one of Keypr’s investors and a former exec at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, added that leveraging technology to improve the guest experience and owner profitability has become a “mission-critical competitive aspect” for the entire hospitality industry.

Keypr has already won several major clients, including Denihan Hospitality, Proper Hospitality, L.E. Hotels and Greystone Hotels. The service has been particularly popular with casino hotels, and this month Keypr will begin deploying its platform at Odawa Casino Resort and Lac Vieux Desert, with others to follow later this year.

The Series A round was led by Karlani Capital and included participation from existing investors Simon Turner and Richard Haddrill, and the new financing brings Keypr’s total funding to date to $19 million.

Photo: Keypr