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If you work in the hospitality industry, you know that it’s very competitive. While some markets aren’t terribly competitive, with limited options for travelers when it comes to hotels, most markets offer the public a wide variety of lodging options and are, by nature, competitive. There are hostels which are great for younger people traveling on the cheap who don’t mind sharing just about everything with their fellow travelers and then there are the 5-star chain hotels, which offer guests just about any amenity you can imagine along with some you probably never thought of. Hoteliers realize that while everybody’s taste, budget and desired amenities are different, the desire to secure the best hotel room they can afford is the same. The hospitality industry is very competitive, especially in a slow economy. Restaurants are aiming to provide patrons with the fastest service, the best food and drinks and the most pleasing ambiance possible. Some even promote their cutting edge dishes, drink specials, wall-to-wall TVs, up-and-coming chef or outdoor seating. Their ultimate goal, of course, is to have their restaurant at maximum capacity every day they’re open. The same principle applies to hotels, of course. Hotel owners and staff realize that consistently high occupancy rates depend upon many things, great customer service, competitive rates and a variety of amenities among them. While travelers like and appreciate a “vacancy” sign after a long day on the road or when they’re in a pinch, hotels generally prefer “no vacancy” as this means that every room is rented, at least on paper. People travel for a variety reasons from anniversary celebrations to business trips and dream vacations to quick getaways, and every reason in between. These same people pay attention to amenities as this affects which hotel they’ll reserve a room at and, in some cases, how long they’ll stay. For example, if the choice of hotels for a family of four comes down to one that has a kitchenette equipped with plates, silverware and cooking utensils and one that does not, for the extra $10 or $20 per day, they’re willing to spend that if they can eat most meals in their room and save money. While some hotels have eliminated amenities in a bid to save money in a struggling economy, most have not as they realize that amenities, or the lack thereof, affect occupancy rates. Now more than ever before people are paying attention to amenities, free amenities in particular. Complimentary breakfast and in room coffee service, sparkling pools and comfortable beds are among the many freebies the general traveling public looks for when selecting a place to stay. Some hotels, like bed and breakfast inns, typically offer home cooked meals or breakfast. Hotels in resort towns often offer discounts at nearby recreation areas or other cross-advertising opportunities. The main goal is to gain a lot by giving a little. Even in a down economy, people still travel and generally they’re planning their trip on a smaller budget. Companies are also paring down so what was once an all-inclusive stay at a posh resort for a week is now a 3-5 day trip at a mid-range hotel with meal stipends and cash bars at planned events. Overall, while the best case scenario is 100% occupancy at all times, that’s not realistic. However, owners and general managers of hotels do their best to provide their guests the best possible experience, hoping to earn their repeat business.
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