Theresa Emerick discusses Fintech for Hospitality Payments.

Payment admin is a headache for many guest houses and lodges. However, with the right fintech solutions, you can make payments easier, safer, and more efficient for your business and your guests. Not only does the right payment technology save you time, but it also helps you win more bookings and build trust with your guests.

In June 2025 Theresa Emerick, the founder of NightsBridge presented a talk about the future of Fintech solutions and what every hospitality leader needs to know.

Key takeaways:

  • It’s easy to be overwhelmed with new technology, especially in the payment space. Debunking some of the myths or fears can help transform that overwhelm into opportunities.
  • Where cash was once king, the rise of virtual cards is now the modern leader. From mobile wallets and QR codes to contactless cards, there is a range of ways to take payments. Understanding the risks and rewards can make this new payment landscape much more welcoming.
  • Transaction fees – Understanding what happens in the payment lifecycle can help you avoid overpaying for your transactions and better grasp the true costs of each payment.
  • Payment technologies are gaining popularity because they offer more security and speed. Some exciting new products are on the market that can make productivity and reporting more transparent and easier, which in turn makes your business more competitive.

Here is her transcript from that presentation.

Theresa on stage talking to Hotel and Hospitality ExpoWhy Fintech Matters for Hospitality Payments.

I’m Theresa Emerick, founder and CEO of NightsBridge. Over the years, I’ve seen how payment technology can make or break a guest’s experience. When payments are simple and secure, guests feel confident booking with you. For this reason, we built NightsBridge payment solutions for accommodation providers who want to do better business online. Our goal is to help you spend less time on admin and more time on what matters most, your guests.

Read more:

The Problem with Old Payment Systems.

Traditional payment systems are slow, risky, and full of admin. For example, high bank fees, manual slips, and sticky notes with card numbers are still too common in the hospitality industry. As a result, these outdated methods can cost you bookings, create unnecessary stress, and waste your valuable time. (Not to mention the importance of PCI compliance, which you can read about here).

We’ve seen too many small properties struggle with clunky card machines and endless paperwork, and we knew there had to be a better way.

How Payment Technology Has Changed.

Antique tillToday’s guests expect fast, secure, and flexible payment options. They want to pay online, tap their phones, or scan a QR code. If your website doesn’t offer online payments, you’re missing out on bookings. It’s like running a shop with no till.

Modern payment technology for accommodation means you can offer guests the convenience they expect, while you get the peace of mind that comes with secure, automated systems.

Key benefits of modern payment technology for accommodation:

  • Online payments for guest houses and lodges mean guests can book and pay in one go.
  • Integration with your booking engine and front-desk system saves you time and reduces errors.
  • Mobile payment options let guests and staff handle payments anywhere, anytime.
  • Secure payment solutions protect guest data and keep your business compliant.
  • Local payment methods increase bookings by giving guests the choices they want.

Why Guest Payment Options Matter.

Here’s a stat every accommodation provider should know:

Guests are 20% more likely to book if you offer their preferred payment method, and four times less likely to cancel.

Clearly, that’s a huge difference for your bottom line. Offering a range of payment options is one of the easiest ways to boost your conversion rate and guest satisfaction. When guests see their favourite payment method listed, they feel more comfortable and are more likely to complete their booking.

Save Time and Reduce Admin with Smart Integrations.

Let’s talk about time. Every minute you spend on manual admin is a minute you could be spending with your guests or growing your business. That’s why integration is such a game changer.

When your booking engine, front-desk system, payment platform and accounting package (NightsBridge’s Xero integration easily exports account information) all talk to each other, you cut out double entries, reduce mistakes, and get rid of repetitive admin.

Here’s a real number: properties using integrated payment solutions with NightsBridge save up to 30 minutes a day on admin tasks. That’s 11 hours every month. Imagine what you could do with an extra 11 hours… more time for guest service, marketing, or even a well-deserved break.

Integration doesn’t just save time. It also means fewer errors, less stress, and a smoother experience for your team and your guests. You get a clear view of your bookings and payments in one place, so you’re always in control.The NightsBridge Fintech story

Secure Payment Solutions for Your Business.

Security is non-negotiable. NightsBridge payment technology is designed to keep your guests’ details safe and your business compliant. No more sticky notes or risky manual processes. Thanks to automation and integration, you’ll see fewer errors, less admin, and more time for you to focus on service. Your guests trust you with their information, and we make sure you can trust your payment systems.

Quick Wins for Your Guest House or Lodge.

  • Add online payment to your website. Make it easy for guests to book and pay, right from the start.
  • Offer multiple payment methods, including card, EFT, and tap. Give guests the flexibility they expect.
  • Use your phone as a payment device for flexibility and convenience, whether you’re at the front desk or on the go.
  • Review your payment fees regularly to avoid unnecessary costs and keep more of your hard-earned revenue.
  • Connect your systems for a smoother workflow. Integration means less double-checking and fewer mistakes.

The NightsBridge Promise:

We’ve never thrown away a booking because of a payment error. If there’s a problem, we let the booking go through and help you sort out the payment. That’s how we support our clients. We believe in building long-term partnerships and helping you grow your business with confidence.

Ready to Upgrade Your Payment Technology?

Fintech isn’t just a buzzword. Instead, it’s about making your life easier and your business stronger. If you want to learn more about secure payment solutions for accommodation, visit our NightsBridge payment solutions page or log into your NightsBridge account. We’re always here to help you do better business online.

Got a payment pain point? Let’s fix it together. Contact us today and see how easy payments can be when you have the right partner by your side.

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