This is much more likely to happen in Asia, where customer service is paramount and status is more iconic (even if it's IHG Plat
).
Almost certainly in every Asian hotel at HI standard and above you'll find a permanently manned Elite desk.
Thailand, in particular, goes heavy on the status entitlement. My experience is limited, but certainly the most welcoming check-in I've had occurred in Bangkok where we were taken to a separate desk and brought what would have been limitless drinks and snacks whilst the process was completed.
Would be interesting if a US or European hotel adopted the same policy - would we be more likely to return for the service, or are we all just encouraging bottom-feeding by always looking for the cheapest price?