Belgium’s historic Nenuphar restaurant has successfully deployed zero-power ePaper technology to modernize its guest communications while preserving its traditional ambiance. The installation marks one of the first European fine-dining establishments to adopt Advanced Colour ePaper (ACeP) technology.
The project, implemented by regional systems integrator TechWorks, centers around PPDS’s Philips Tableaux displays, using four 25-inch units strategically positioned throughout the property. What distinguishes this installation from conventional digital signage deployments is the displays’ ability to maintain full-color images indefinitely without drawing power, consuming energy only during content updates at a minimal 0.0025 kWh per change.
“The hospitality sector has long struggled with balancing modern communication needs against both energy costs and aesthetic considerations,” explains Diederik Maes, Managing Director at TechWorks. “The ACeP technology resolves both issues, offering full-color digital displays that blend seamlessly into high-end environments while essentially eliminating ongoing power consumption.”
The system’s implementation at Nenuphar provides a practical case study in operational flexibility. The 3.5kg portable units can be repositioned as needed, enabling the restaurant to adapt its communication strategy throughout the day. The Android-based SoC infrastructure supports both on-premises and remote content management, allowing staff to update messaging across all displays simultaneously or target individual units for specific communications.
For operators concerned about deployment complexity, the Tableaux system’s integration proved straightforward. “Installation required minimal disruption to our daily operations,” notes Guillaume De Breyne, Nenuphar’s Operational Director. “The displays’ wireless connectivity and portable nature meant we could experiment with placement without commitment to fixed infrastructure.”
The technology’s ROI potential extends beyond energy savings. The Nenuphar reports significant reductions in printing costs and paper waste, while gaining new revenue opportunities through dynamic promotional capabilities. The system allows for real-time menu updates, automated day-parting, and immediate response to inventory changes or special events.
