Simple ways that hotels can bounce back from the impact of the pandemic
While the coronavirus pandemic has sure shaken up the business world, there is no denying that the UK hospitality industry has not been the hardest hit. Hotels have had to grapple relentlessly with confusing rules, travel bans, and a significant decline in paying guests.
To really put matters into perspective, the UK hotel industry could take four years to return to 2019 levels of business. It’s a worrying time for many, from small bed and breakfast lodges to huge global chains. As a hotel, what can you do to bounce back from the impact of the pandemic? Here we will explore some simple ways…
Use this quiet time to refurbish
Although money is certainly an object here, it is worth looking into refurbishing your establishment if you have the financial means to do so. Yes, the pandemic has flooded the industry with countless negatives, but when will you ever get another opportunity to redecorate your hotel, without disrupting guests?
Perhaps you have only recently renovated your property, or maybe you cannot afford to? Well, it does not have to entail a full-scale, monumental transformation. Even something as simple as introducing new wall art or upgrading the seating in your reception area will create the sense of a ‘fresh start’ feeling necessary for when you can open your doors properly once more.
Use this time to recharge your batteries
As it stands right now, hotels and B&Bs may only legally remain open for specific reasons including to accommodate people who are self-isolating, and so the figure of guests in the majority of UK hotels is pretty scarce right now. With all this extra time on your hands, why not make the most out of this opportunity you have to rest?
Life in the hotel and B&B business is usually very fast paced, and employees have the huge responsibility of looking after guests and ensuring that every minute of their stay is a pleasant one. When was the last time you had the freedom to do what you want, when you want? Finally pick up that new hobby, catch up on sleep and spend time with your family. When your hotel gets another taste of normality, you will feel rested and ready to do an even better job than you did before.
Be transparent with what you’re doing to stay compliant
By now, we all know that, even after we are released from lockdown number 3, life is not going to suddenly spring back to normal – regardless of how much want it to. When the time comes to reopen your hotel to more than just those self-isolating or moving house, be sure to be vocal about the necessary steps you’re taking to combat the virus.
Dorsett Hotel, Shepherds Bush, for example, has taken the opportunity to post written content and videos across their social media channels to assure guests that their establishment is a safe place to be. It’s no good burying your head in the sand and pretending that the virus doesn’t exist – it’s very real, and people will want to feel confident in your abilities to make their stay a safe one.