How to Increase Hotel Revenue and Sales During Low Season
While for hotels, the low season poses problems of low occupancy rates, lower revenues, etc., with the right management approaches, one is able to achieve constant cash inflow and guest traffic during activity low seasons. From reaching out to consumers continually and directly to effectively reaching out through creative ways of selling the rooms, here are some of the best strategies that will lead to an increase in hotel revenues and sales during the low season.
1. Design Great Off-Season Offers
Probably the most effective strategy of attracting guests during the low season is generating value propositions. Offering services in a packaged deal is always attractive, and if a hotel offers an attractive enough price to entice people, they are more likely to use the said hotel.
Examples of Packages:
- Spa and Wellness Package: Add on services including spa facilities, yoga lessons, or an appointment with a health and wellness specialist for guests enjoying leisure.
- Family Fun Package: Provide extra services for children, free dinner, and complimentary local theme park tickets.
- Romantic Getaway: A bottle of wine, dinner reservation, and a private room with a scenic view, offering an incentive for couples wanting a private experience.
Promote these packages on your website and social media accounts, specifying that potential clients should book directly on your site to help them avoid third-party commissions.
2. Target Local & Regional Tourists
During the low season, you should target trips within the region or nearby areas. Some travelers seek easily accessible destinations that do not require much preparatory time or distance.
How to Target Locals:
- Geo-target your ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google.
- Encourage “in-house Offers” or “resident-only” offers for inhabitants of neighboring areas.
- Eliminate location barriers and work closely with local firms, organizations, and companies to arrange mutual promotions, such as special offers at nearby restaurants, spas, or entertainment venues.
3. Special Promotions for Longer Term Rentals
Encouraging longer-term rentals can increase occupancy by inviting clients to stay longer, even if they pay less per night. Promotions for extended stays are ideal for those working remotely or traveling on business who prefer extended stays.
Examples of Extended Stay Offers:
- Stay 3 Nights, Get 1 Free: Encourage guests to book an additional day.
- Weekly and Monthly Rates: Provide discounts for longer stays with daily, weekly, or monthly rates for guests planning to stay in their rooms often.
To market these offers, use email newsletters and social media to highlight the advantages of longer-stay accommodations.
4. Expand Late Season Retailing: Halloween and Other October Market Holidays
Create seasonal events where tourists seek themed experiences even in off-peak seasons. These events can attract both transient crowds and locals, increasing both occupancy and F&B value.
Seasonal Event Ideas:
- Winter Wellness Retreat: Services like hot yoga, spa treatments, and nutrition-cooking lessons.
- Spring Escape: Offer guided nature tours, market visits, and art tours.
- Fall Festival: Host wine tastings, live music events, and seasonal dinners.
Promote these events through newspapers, magazines, flyers, newsletters, and social media. Seasonal themes help attract guests and provide the hotel with marketable events during low traffic periods.
5. Incorporate Social Media and Influencer Marketing
Social media is an effective way to reach a large audience. A well-executed awareness campaign during the low season can highlight the property’s appeal and surroundings.
Social Media Strategies:
- Use Instagram Stories and Facebook Live to show potential guests the property and amenities.
- Collaborate with influencers or travel bloggers to promote low season travel.
- Offer special promotions, such as a free weekend or a gift card, to encourage bookings.
Conclusion
Low season is a time for hotels to employ innovative strategies by focusing on local guests, creating appealing offers, adopting flexible accommodation policies, and utilizing digital platforms to increase revenue, occupancy, and guest satisfaction.
The strategies above not only help generate revenue but also provide a competitive advantage, showcasing that your hotel can deliver valuable experiences year-round. Effective revenue management in low seasons is vital for any hotel aiming to build customer loyalty and achieve long-term success.
Need professional tools to answer low season bookings queries effectively? Contact iNPLASS to learn how our technology platform can help your hotel meet revenue planning goals year-round.
#HotelRevenueManagement #LowSeasonBookings #YieldManagement #HotelMarketing #GuestExperience #iNPLASS