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Custom Hotel Key Cards: Boost Security, Branding & Guest Satisfaction in 2025

In 2025, the hospitality industry is more competitive than ever. As travelers seek seamless experiences, custom hotel key cards have emerged as a pivotal branding and security tool. Beyond mere access, these cards help hotels enhance guest loyalty, improve operational efficiency, and leave a lasting first impression.

This rising demand underscores how vital custom hotel key cards are for modern accommodations.

Why Customized Hotel Key Cards Matter in 2025

Enhanced Security & Guest Trust

Traditional magnetic stripe cards are easy to demagnetize and copy. In contrast, RFID and smart chip key cards offer enhanced encryption and fraud resistance. Modern cards with AES encryption safeguard guest data, making unauthorized duplication nearly impossible

Custom branding doesn’t just look good—it amplifies credibility. When guests see thoughtfully designed room keys with a hotel’s logo and custom artwork, it enhances their perception of quality and trust.

Branding That Starts at Check‑In

From reception to room, your custom hotel key cards act as mini-billboards. PLI Cards offers full-color printing, matte and gloss finishes, and eco-conscious materials to match any hotel’s aesthetic. Embossing guest names, contactless chip logos, or QR codes adds a personalized touch that sets your property apart.

Key Benefits of Crystal‑Clear Customized Hotel Key Cards

1. Guest Convenience & Streamlined Experience

RFID cards offer seamless, tap-to-access convenience compared to swipe cards. Guests breeze through check-in and exit without hassle—reducing friction and improving satisfaction

2. Operational Efficiency & Cost Savings

Lost or compromised custom hotel key cards are simple to deactivate and reissue—no locksmiths or lock replacements needed. RFID cards are reusable indefinitely and magnetic stripe cards support 5–8 reprogramming cycles, delivering cost-effective longevity

3. Multi‑Access & Upsell Opportunities

Custom key cards can unlock beyond rooms—they can control entry to pools, gyms, and VIP lounges. Some hotels even tie RFID cards to loyalty programs and special offers, increasing in‑stay spending

Market Trends & Data: Why 2025 Is the Year of RFID Keys

The global RFID hotel key card market grew to USD 1.2 billion in 2024 with projections reaching USD 2.5 billion by 2033

A broader RFID key card industry surged from USD 3.2 billion in 2024 to an anticipated USD 5.6 billion by 2033—a CAGR of 7.2%

Contactless technologies are now the preferred access method: 70% of consumers report feeling safer with digital keys than standard cards .

These figures highlight growing guest expectations and the strategic importance of custom hotel key cards.

Customization Options from PLI Cards

As a global leader in hospitality card solutions, PLI Cards delivers high-quality, fully customized hotel key cards that fit any property's needs:

Technology: RFID, smart chip, NFC, magnetic stripe

Design Finishes: Matte, gloss, foil, embossed, eco-friendly

Personalization: Guest names, loyalty IDs, QR codes

Security: AES encryption, serialized tracking, secure encoding

Sustainability: Recycled PVC and biodegradable materials

With compatibility across major lock systems like Onity®, Saflok®, and Salto®, PLI ensures seamless integration and premium experience.

Best Practices for Rolling Out Custom Hotel Key Cards

1. Align Design with Brand Voice

Use branded colors, fonts, and logo placement that echo your property’s identity. Highlight loyalty perks or concierge contact details.

2. Select the Right Technology

For small boutique hotels, magnetic stripe might suffice. For upscale or high-volume properties, opt for RFID or smart chip solutions.

3. Emphasize Secure Personalization

Include encrypted guest data and credentials. Cards must be encoded and deactivated through central PMS integration.

4. Integrate Loyalty & Upselling

Use key cards as interactive tools—access to spa perks, event invites, or discount vouchers—deepening loyalty and guest value.

5. Choose a Trusted Provider

Select a partner offering full fulfillment—from design to global shipping. PLI Cards handles secure printing, distribution, and ongoing support.

Wrapping Up: Small Cards, Big Impact

In 2025’s digitally savvy landscape, custom hotel key cards have gone far beyond functional swipes. They reinforce brand visibility at every guest interaction, enhance access security, and deliver measurable ROI through guest loyalty and upsell opportunities.

By partnering with PLI Cards, you gain access to cutting-edge production, dependable delivery, and design-centric solutions that align with your brand’s vision.

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Why Top Brands Trust Gift Card Fulfillment Companies for Seamless Delivery

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, gift card fulfillment companies play a crucial role in bridging the gap between brands and consumers. From secure packaging to personalized inserts and on-time delivery, these experts ensure every card reaches the customer with precision and professionalism.

Whether you're launching a holiday promo or managing a loyalty program, partnering with the right fulfillment company guarantees quality control, scalability, and brand consistency—every step of the way.

Stay ahead. Stay efficient. Let fulfillment experts handle the details while you focus on growing your business.

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Gift Card Marketing: A Strategic Tool for Modern Brands

Boost Brand Loyalty, Drive Sales, and Win New Customers with Smart Gift Card Strategies

In today’s experience-driven economy, gift card marketing has evolved from a simple convenience into a powerful growth strategy for brands. It’s no longer just about offering a backup gifting option — it’s about embedding your brand into everyday moments, building loyalty, and attracting new customers in highly competitive markets.

Whether you’re a retailer, hospitality chain, or service provider, understanding and leveraging gift card marketing can significantly boost your bottom line. According to insights from PLI Cards, one of the leading players in the card manufacturing and marketing space, gift cards offer more than monetary value — they offer a branded experience.

What Is Gift Card Marketing?

Gift card marketing is a strategic approach where businesses use physical or digital gift cards not only to drive direct revenue but also to increase brand visibility, encourage repeat visits, and acquire new customers.

It involves more than just printing a card with your logo — it’s about creating a full-circle experience: from eye-catching card design to engaging packaging, creative promotional campaigns, and seamless redemption.

Why Gift Card Marketing Works

Here’s why more businesses are making gift card campaigns central to their marketing strategy:

1. Customer Acquisition

Gift cards are often gifted to people unfamiliar with your brand — creating the perfect opportunity to turn a first-timer into a long-term customer. They serve as warm introductions with real value.

2. Higher Spending Than Face Value

Studies show that consumers tend to spend more than the value of a gift card. That’s bonus revenue you wouldn't have captured otherwise.

3. Boosts Brand Loyalty

Loyalty programs tied to gift card usage can create repeat engagement. Combined with promotions (e.g., “Buy a $100 gift card, get $10 free”), they also incentivize continued use.

4. Drives Seasonal & Last-Minute Sales

Gift cards are go-to items during holidays, birthdays, and special events. Their shelf presence — especially when well-designed — captures the impulse buyer and saves last-minute shoppers.

How PLI Cards Powers Gift Card Marketing

At the heart of effective gift card marketing is execution — and that’s where PLI Cards excels. As a top-tier gift card manufacturer and creative partner, PLI offers end-to-end solutions:

Custom Card Design Tailored to reflect brand identity, seasonal themes, or limited-time campaigns.

Retail Packaging & Displays Eye-catching, retail-ready packaging that elevates shelf appeal and presentation.

Marketing Campaign Support From co-branded activations to holiday rollouts, PLI helps brands execute high-impact promotions.

Omnichannel Distribution From physical to digital cards, their infrastructure supports seamless delivery across retail, corporate, and e-commerce channels.

Real-World Applications of Gift Card Marketing

Here’s how various industries are successfully applying gift card marketing strategies:

Retail Stores: Promoting “gift card walls” during the holiday season.

Restaurants: Offering meal bundles tied to card purchases.

Hotels: Promoting experiences (spa day, dining, staycations) in the form of giftable cards.

Gyms & Wellness: Encouraging referrals by rewarding gift card senders and recipients.

Corporate Gifting: Using branded gift cards as incentives, rewards, and employee recognition.

Don’t Forget Sustainability

PLI is also leading the charge in sustainable materials. With recyclable packaging and biodegradable card options, your brand can stay green while staying top-of-mind — an increasingly important message to consumers.

Final Thoughts: Your Brand in Their Wallet

Gift card marketing is more than a transaction — it’s a brand conversation. It invites new customers in, reinforces loyalty, and keeps your brand alive in the minds (and wallets) of your audience. With expert partners like PLI Cards, you can turn a simple plastic card into a powerful marketing tool that speaks louder than traditional ads ever could.

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Why B2B Card Fulfillment Is the Backbone of Scalable Loyalty Programs

n the fast-moving world of B2B, efficiency matters—and that’s where B2B card fulfillment shines. Whether you're managing loyalty cards, employee ID badges, or custom RFID solutions, streamlined card production, personalization, packaging, and delivery at scale is key to your brand's success.

Partnering with the right fulfillment provider means faster turnaround, smarter logistics, and flawless branding every time. From print to pack to post—your cards, your way, delivered with precision.

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Why B2B Card Fulfillment Is the Backbone of Scalable Loyalty Programs

n the fast-moving world of B2B, efficiency matters—and that’s where B2B card fulfillment shines. Whether you're managing loyalty cards, employee ID badges, or custom RFID solutions, streamlined card production, personalization, packaging, and delivery at scale is key to your brand's success.

Partnering with the right fulfillment provider means faster turnaround, smarter logistics, and flawless branding every time. From print to pack to post—your cards, your way, delivered with precision.

[mathewthomas]

Why B2B Card Fulfillment Is the Backbone of Scalable Loyalty Programs

n the fast-moving world of B2B, efficiency matters—and that’s where B2B card fulfillment shines. Whether you're managing loyalty cards, employee ID badges, or custom RFID solutions, streamlined card production, personalization, packaging, and delivery at scale is key to your brand's success.

Partnering with the right fulfillment provider means faster turnaround, smarter logistics, and flawless branding every time. From print to pack to post—your cards, your way, delivered with precision.

[mathewthomas]

Enhance In-Store Sales with a Custom Gift Card Display

Looking to boost gift card sales at your retail location? Make it easier for customers to see and choose your offers when you order a gift card display for your store!

Whether it’s a compact countertop unit or a custom-branded stand, well-placed displays not only attract attention but also increase impulse buys. At PLI, we design functional, eye-catching POP displays that highlight your gift card variety and enhance your checkout space.

💡 Smart layout. Strong branding. Easy setup. ✨ A better way to showcase value—right at the point of sale.

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Card Marketing Solutions: How PLI Cards Helps Brands Stand Out and Sell More

In today’s competitive market, businesses are constantly looking for ways to enhance customer engagement, build loyalty, and increase revenue. While digital campaigns and influencer marketing often grab the spotlight, one highly effective but often underutilized strategy is card marketing — specifically through well-crafted card marketing solutions.

Whether you're a national retailer, a restaurant chain, or a local service provider, branded cards like gift cards, loyalty cards, membership cards, and promotional access cards can be powerful touchpoints that connect your brand to customers in a tangible, trackable, and profitable way.

This is where PLI Cards comes into play — a global leader in delivering fully integrated card marketing solutions tailored to help businesses grow smarter.

What Are Card Marketing Solutions? Card marketing solutions refer to the full ecosystem of services that support the creation, distribution, and promotion of physical and digital cards. These cards are more than just pieces of plastic — they’re tools for customer retention, brand engagement, and revenue generation.

A complete card marketing strategy can include:

Custom card design & printing (gift cards, loyalty cards, ID cards)

Secure data encoding & personalization

Fulfillment, kitting, and packaging

Display units for point-of-sale (POS) promotion

Integration with CRM, POS, and digital wallets

Seasonal marketing and promotional campaigns

When executed correctly, card marketing drives results — both in-store and online — while offering customers a seamless, branded experience. https://medium.com/@thomasmathew04723

Why PLI Cards Leads in Card Marketing Innovation PLI Cards, the largest manufacturer of gift and loyalty cards in the world, offers end-to-end card marketing solutions that cover every stage of your card’s lifecycle — from concept to customer handoff.

High-Quality Card Production PLI specializes in the design and production of high-quality plastic and eco-friendly cards. Whether you're seeking sleek gift cards with metallic finishes or sustainable options for your loyalty program, PLI ensures every card is a reflection of your brand identity.

Custom Card Packaging & Displays Card presentation can influence buying decisions. PLI offers creative card carriers, packaging options, and eye-catching retail display units that draw customer attention in-store and at checkout.

Turnkey Fulfillment Services PLI handles all aspects of card fulfillment and distribution, ensuring fast turnaround and accurate delivery — whether you’re shipping bulk cards to retail chains or mailing personalized offers directly to customers.

Data & Technology Integration Modern card marketing must be data-driven. PLI provides card solutions that integrate seamlessly with your existing POS, CRM, and loyalty platforms. This helps you track usage, collect insights, and improve future marketing campaigns.

Real Business Benefits of Card Marketing Solutions Implementing card marketing solutions through a trusted provider like PLI can lead to measurable ROI:

Increased revenue per customer through reloadable gift and loyalty cards

Higher foot traffic and brand visibility with well-placed card displays

Improved customer retention via loyalty rewards and personalized offers

Streamlined operations and reduced fraud through secure card encoding

Cards are tactile, trusted, and personal — and when backed by a well-thought-out strategy, they serve as mini brand ambassadors in your customers’ wallets.

The PLI Advantage: Strategy + Execution PLI doesn’t just print cards — they partner with brands to build marketing programs that work. With decades of experience, an in-house creative team, and global fulfillment capabilities, PLI gives you the agility and scalability to meet your marketing goals on time and on brand.

Whether you're launching a nationwide gift card campaign, building a loyalty ecosystem, or needing custom RFID/NFC-enabled cards, PLI has the tools, technology, and team to deliver.

Final Thoughts If your business is ready to elevate its customer engagement strategy, it’s time to consider how card marketing solutions can make a real difference. With PLI Cards as your partner, you're not just investing in cards — you're investing in a smarter, more connected future for your brand.

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The Unsung Hero of Hospitality: The Hotel Key Card Holder

In the world of hospitality, first impressions matter—and the small details often leave the biggest impact. One such detail is the hotel key card holder.

Far more than a simple sleeve, a hotel key card holder serves multiple purposes:

✅ Protects the magnetic strip or RFID chip from damage

✅ Guides guests with essential info like room number, Wi-Fi credentials, and check-out times

✅ Promotes your brand with custom printing and design

✅ Enhances guest experience through thoughtful presentation

Whether you manage a boutique hotel or a global chain, upgrading your key card holders is an easy, cost-effective way to improve guest satisfaction and brand perception.

[mathewthomas]

First impressions matter — especially in retail. Whether you're selling gift cards, loyalty cards, or collectible items, your packaging is just as important as the product itself.

At [Your Company Name], we specialize in custom card packaging and displays that combine style, security, and shelf appeal.

✅ High-quality materials ✅ Custom die-cut and fold designs ✅ Eco-friendly options available ✅ Retail-ready display stands ✅ Perfect for gift cards, game cards, ID cards, and more

🎨 Make your brand unforgettable with packaging that speaks your story!

📦 Ready to stand out? Contact us for a custom quote today.

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🎁 Small Insert. Big Impact. Your brand’s message deserves more than just a gift card! With promotional card inserts from PLI Cards, you can boost customer engagement, upsell with ease, and leave a memorable impression with every package.

💡 Whether it’s a coupon, a thank-you note, or an invite to your loyalty program, our custom inserts turn basic packaging into a powerful marketing tool.

📦 Perfect for: ✅ Retail stores ✅ Hospitality brands ✅ Holiday gift campaigns ✅ Loyalty & membership programs

👀 Stand out from the crowd. Start turning every package into a branded experience your customers will remember.

🔗 Explore creative ideas: http://plicards.com/card-talk/innovative-Ideas-for-branded-gift-card-package-inserts

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🎉 Elevate Your Event Experience! 🎉

Make a lasting impression with custom holographic key cards from PLI Cards! ✨ Perfect for hotel events, conferences, and VIP gatherings — these cards combine premium security with a dazzling design that guests will love.

✅ Custom branding available ✅ RFID technology options ✅ Fast turnaround and quality you can trust

Stand out at your next event! 🌟

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✨ Elevate Your Hotel's Guest Experience with Custom Door Hangers ✨

Enhance your hotel's ambiance and guest satisfaction with PLI Cards' bespoke hotel door hangers. Crafted from durable materials and customizable to reflect your brand's identity, these door hangers serve as both functional tools and stylish room accessories.​

Why Choose PLI Cards' Hotel Door Hangers?

Custom Branding: Infuse your hotel's personality with personalized designs, logos, and messages.

Durable Materials: Made from high-quality materials to withstand daily use.

Functional Design: Clearly communicate room status with "Do Not Disturb" and "Please Make Up Room" options.

Eco-Friendly Options: Choose from sustainable materials to align with green initiatives.​

Whether you're aiming to provide a serene environment or promote in-room services, our hotel door hangers are designed to meet your needs. Elevate your guests' experience from the moment they arrive.

[mathewthomas]

🏰 Why RFID Fobs Are Game-Changers for Family Fun Centers

RFID fobs are revolutionizing family entertainment venues by enhancing security and streamlining operations.​

🔐 Top Benefits:

High-Level Encryption: Protects sensitive data from unauthorized access.

Anti-Cloning Technology: Prevents unauthorized duplication of access credentials.

Tamper-Proof Design: Ensures durability and reliability in high-traffic environments.​

Integrating RFID technology not only secures access but also improves the overall visitor experience. It's a smart investment for any family fun center aiming to enhance safety and operational efficiency.​

#RFID #FamilyFunCenter #SecurityTech #SmartAccess #VisitorExperience

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Unlock the Power of Gift Card Marketing! 💳💥

Gift cards aren't just a great gift—they're a marketing powerhouse! 🚀 Whether you're a small business or a big brand, here’s why you should be using gift cards to boost your sales:

Upfront Revenue 💰 – Customers pay before they shop!

Brand Loyalty ❤️ – Perfect for loyalty programs and repeat customers.

New Customers 👫 – Gift cards bring in fresh faces to your store.

Promotions & Holidays 🎉 – Perfect for seasonal sales, limited-time offers, and special events.

Maximize your ROI by offering digital & physical cards, launching referral programs, or bundling with products! 📈💡

Start using gift card marketing in your strategy today and watch your brand thrive! 🌟

[mathewthomas]

Rethinking Plastic: How PLI Is Revolutionizing Sustainable Card Manufacturing

In today’s climate-conscious world, sustainability isn’t a trend—it’s a responsibility. Every business decision, no matter how small, can shape the planet's future. At PLI Cards, the focus is clear: transform traditional plastic-based card production into an eco-conscious, innovative process that delivers value to both brands and the environment.

What Is Sustainable Card Manufacturing?

Sustainable card manufacturing means producing gift cards, hotel key cards, loyalty cards, and more using materials and processes that reduce harm to the planet. This includes everything from responsibly sourced raw materials to biodegradable packaging and low-impact inks.

At PLI, the shift is comprehensive. They are not just replacing plastic—they are rewriting the entire lifecycle of a card. Whether it’s a hotel key card tucked inside a luxury welcome envelope or a retail gift card passed from hand to hand, each piece reflects a deeper commitment to sustainability.

Eco-Friendly Materials with Purpose

Traditional cards are often made from PVC—a material with a high environmental footprint. PLI’s solution? A selection of sustainable alternatives that perform just as well and feel even better.

Bamboo & Hemp: Fast-growing and biodegradable, these materials are ideal for a low-waste product lifecycle.

Cotton & Burlap: Soft, organic fibers perfect for brands that want to offer a premium touch without harming the earth.

Recycled Paper & Cardstock: Reducing waste by reusing existing resources.

Plastic-Free Options: 85%-100% plastic-free cards made to serve both functionality and sustainability.

Each material is chosen not just for how it looks, but for how it supports a greener tomorrow.

Global Certification, Local Impact

PLI Cards has been FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) multi-site Chain-of-Custody certified since 2011. This means every step—from sourcing wood-based paper products to converting them into cards—follows the strictest environmental and social standards.

This isn’t just about materials. It’s about accountability, traceability, and transparency—core principles that today’s eco-aware consumers demand.

Sustainable Packaging & Printing

Cards aren’t the only thing going green. PLI has expanded its sustainability efforts into the full product journey:

Compostable and Recyclable Packaging: Goodbye plastic wrappers, hello earth-friendly boxes.

Vegetable-Based Inks: Vibrant, non-toxic printing that aligns with low-emission goals.

Carbon-Conscious Manufacturing: Efficient production processes that reduce waste and energy use.

From design to delivery, every element is crafted with the planet in mind.

Why It Matters More Than Ever

Did you know?

73% of Gen Z consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products. 88% of business leaders say customers will reward companies for environmental efforts.

The message is clear—brands that prioritize sustainability aren’t just helping the earth, they’re building trust, loyalty, and long-term value.

Whether you’re a boutique hotel looking to offer eco-friendly key cards or a retail brand launching a plastic-free loyalty program, switching to sustainable card manufacturing is a powerful statement.

Make the Switch with PLI Cards

At PLI, sustainability doesn’t compromise design, quality, or performance. It enhances them. Each card is not only a tool for access, payment, or branding—it’s a reflection of your values.

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The Evolution of Hotel Key Cards: From Magnetic Stripes to RFID Technology

Introduction

Hotel key cards have come a long way from traditional metal keys to advanced RFID-enabled smart cards. As the hospitality industry evolves, the demand for secure, convenient, and contactless hotel access solutions has skyrocketed. In this blog, we’ll explore how hotel key card technology has transformed over the years and why RFID is the future of guest access.

The Journey of Hotel Key Cards

1. The Era of Metal Keys & Traditional Locks

Before the introduction of key cards for hospitality, hotels relied on traditional metal keys. However, these keys posed several problems: Easily duplicated, leading to security risks Bulky and inconvenient to carry High replacement costs for lost keys

To address these issues, the hospitality industry shifted to key card-based access control.

2. The Introduction of Magnetic Stripe Key Cards

Magnetic stripe key cards became popular in the 1970s, revolutionizing the way guests accessed their rooms. These cards contained encoded data that unlocked doors via swiping.

Pros: Cost-effective and easy to replace Allowed for quick reprogramming Compact and convenient for guests

Cons: Susceptible to demagnetization, causing card failures Easy to clone, leading to security concerns Wears out over time due to repeated swiping

Due to these limitations, hotels started looking for more secure and durable alternatives.

3. RFID & Contactless Hotel Key Cards – The Modern Standard

📡 RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) hotel key cards have revolutionized the industry by eliminating the need for physical swiping. Instead, these cards use wireless communication to unlock doors with a simple tap or proximity detection.

Why Hotels are Switching to RFID Key Cards: Contactless Access – Enhances guest convenience and hygiene Higher Security – Harder to duplicate than magnetic stripe cards Durability – No physical wear and tear Faster Check-in Process – Reduces wait times at hotel front desks Customizable & Brandable – Hotels can print logos, promotions, and QR codes on RFID cards

4. The Future: Mobile Key Cards & Smart Access Systems

With the rise of smartphones and IoT (Internet of Things), hotels are now integrating mobile key card technology. Guests can unlock their rooms using mobile apps with NFC (Near Field Communication) and Bluetooth technology.

Future Trends in Hotel Key Cards: Biometric Hotel Access – Face recognition or fingerprint authentication Blockchain Security for Key Cards – Prevents cloning and fraud Multi-Use Smart Cards – Access rooms, gym, spa, and hotel payments with one card

Why Hotels Should Upgrade to RFID Key Cards

Improve guest experience with seamless check-in/out Reduce operational costs by eliminating demagnetization issues Strengthen security with encrypted access control Support eco-friendly initiatives with sustainable key card materials

Final Thoughts

Hotel key cards have evolved from metal keys to magnetic stripes, and now to RFID and mobile key technology. As security and convenience remain top priorities in the hospitality industry, adopting advanced hotel key card systems is a smart move.

Looking for high-quality hotel key cards? PLI Cards offers custom, secure, and RFID-enabled key card solutions to enhance your guests’ experience. Contact us today!