Why it’s Easier to Succeed and Outshine Airbnb
Rising overheads and competition from Airbnb can be the perfect storm for Hotels.
In light of this many in the industry are looking to strip their “add-on” services right back to nothing in an attempt to recoup some of these growing costs.
Removing optional turn down services, hospitality trays and toiletries may seem like they save you money in the short term, but the long term will cost you loyal current and future guests.
What sets Hotel’s and Airbnb’s apart?
There are quite a few differences between the two hospitality accommodation types.
Typically guests tend to book hotels for shorter, pressing the reset button breaks. So it makes sense they want and expect luxury at their fingertips. Whether that’s hot drinks in their room, luxury toiletries or requesting that turn down service!
Check in
Airbnb’s are seen as the adventurous option for longer stays, given that there isn’t a tradition check-in or service staff to guide them through amenities (if there are any). Then they are on their own to enjoy the local sites and tourist traps, great for independent guests.
But! This is often a big downfall if things don’t go to plan, there is no calling reception to get immediate remedies.
Hotels typically are full staffed, with night staff available for out of hour room service and problem solving.
Room Service
Guest’s staying in self-catering Airbnb’s know they are flying solo when it comes to room service. Often there are no options except preparing food at their accommodation if they find themselves hungry outside local restaurant and takeout times.
The undeniable benefit of hotels is the option to have food delivered to your room. For guests working away or returning late from tourist excursions, they return hungry. Having in room hot drinks and snacks available as a refreshment option is a great tool that goes hand in hand with this service. Who doesn’t love a hotel biscuit and a snack bar?
Amenities
Airbnb’s have evolved with their guests by regularly provide more bespoke hot drink options in their accommodations. Nespresso Coffee Pod Machines, Bean 2 cup machines and fancy kettles are part of their allure, an independent approach to guest services. More often than not toiletries are not supplied by the host and are simply left over from previous guests.
Hotels are keen to keep up with the guest expectations. Complimentary toiletries and hot drinks are provided and hygienically changed between guest stays. It is also beneficial to complement a luxury room with Pod Machines and Luxury Hotel Trays that lend an aesthetic appeal. They are fast becoming an easy upgrade and improving guests feedback.
Conclusion
Hotels are still seen as a luxury and worthwhile expenditure for travelling couples and familys. Guests that are travelling for work are reliant on those complimentary services built into their rooms tariff.
Removing key tools that establish your as a more attentive and responsive hospitality setting will undermine your USP. Lowering the value of your well earned brand. Reducing services reduces benefits for guests, who will turn to cheaper no frills accommodations.
Those key services that smooth out your guests stay are worth protecting. Offering a turn down service, complimentary tea and coffee, room service add value for guests, build them up!
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