Hotel Magazine

Transitioning Towards a More Sustainable Future in Hospitality

The landscape of the hospitality industry is undergoing a transformative shift. Sustainability is becoming a significant factor when choosing where to stay and modern guests are increasingly seeking eco-conscious accommodations. According to a Booking.com report, 61% of travellers want to travel in a more sustainable way and collectively as a society, we are taking greater interest in business’ environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG).

Combined with growing pressures to reach hospitality’s goal of net zero by 2040, businesses should now consider putting sustainability at the heart of everything they do. Yet, implementing eco-friendly changes in an industry that is heavily reliant on energy, water and single-use plastic can be challenging. In the race to slow down and reduce the impacts of climate change, drastic changes must be made soon. The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance has calculated in its Global Hotel Decarbonisation Report that the industry needs to reduce carbon emissions per room by at least 66 per cent by 2030, and 90 per cent by 2050, based on 2010 levels.

Here are some of the ways hospitality businesses can implement sustainable practices to future-proof their business, while continuing to uphold quality service for guests.

Embracing technology

Operating 24/7, 7 days a week – hotels require lighting, thermostats, and other electrical systems to be functioning at all times, using a significant amount of energy. Evolving technology, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) will seek to revolutionise sustainability practices across the industry. For example, these systems can automatically adapt temperature and lighting according to occupancy, leading to decreased energy consumption and cost savings. In addition, AI has the capability to predict energy demand patterns, empowering hotels to operate with greater efficiency.

Requiring a great amount of power each day means hotels should look to invest in and adopt renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, to generate clean and sustainable energy.

Reducing single-use plastic

According to UNESCO, 8-10 million tonnes of plastic are released into the sea every year. Despite this, the hospitality industry uses a high quantity of single-use plastic. Whilst some hospitality businesses such as hotels are replacing single-use plastics with sustainable alternatives, they can still be found in guests' rooms, public spaces, and the back of the house. This includes items such as plastic bottles, disposable coffee cups, toiletry bottles, and packaging, like slipper wraps, contributing to waste, pollution, and global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Quick and simple changes can be made to reduce the amount of waste created. For example, single-use plastic toiletries can be replaced with refillable dispensers for shampoo, conditioner, and soap. When it comes to food and beverage services, more sustainable options such as bamboo or paper can be used to replace plastic straws, stirrers, and cutlery.

Not only do these changes promote a more sustainable approach, but they are also more cost-effective, reducing the need to buy single-use items in bulk.

Conserving water and other resources

In hotel laundry rooms, processing multiple loads of laundry each day requires a significant amount of energy, water, and detergent. According to a report by the International Resource Panel (IRP), the demand for water will exceed supply by 40 percent in 2030 under current trends. As a result, it is crucial that hotel managers also consider the type of equipment they are using to reduce any unnecessary water consumption. For instance, commercial laundry machines are now designed with sustainability in mind. Drum design and sensors can adjust the water volume and detergent used based on the load weight, ensuring that no more water, energy, and detergent is used than necessary. This supports businesses in conserving resources and reducing costs. At Miele Professional, our laundry machines have been built with sustainability in mind, supporting businesses in reducing their environmental footprint and overhead costs.

Supporting a greener future

With trends and expectations continuing to evolve, hotels that implement sustainability initiatives will maintain a unique and competitive edge against their competitors in a rapidly changing market. Prominent hotel brands, like Hilton, have already taken notice. The brand has pledged to reduce its waste by over 50% by 2030 and became the first major hotel company to set science-based carbon targets in accordance with the Paris Climate Agreement, approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Failing to consider your ESG practices poses a threat to your business's brand perception and reputation, ultimately impacting your bottom line.

By Sam Holden, Business Account Manager at Miele Professional

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by Hotel Magazine

Gun Ana Launches Revolutionary Suncare Line in the UK

Gun Ana, the pioneering Suncare brand originating from Stockholm, Sweden, announces its official launch in the United Kingdom. Founded in 2020 by Sigrid Osvald and Kajsa Regnér, Gun Ana's inception was rooted in a shared passion for skincare and a mission to redefine the perception and usage of sunscreen.

Derived from their personal experiences during a skiing season in the French Alps, where they recognized the significance of year-round sun protection, Kajsa and Sigrid embarked on a journey to develop premium SPF products that merge efficacy with indulgence. After extensive research and collaboration with expert chemists, Gun Ana was introduced to the world in spring 2022.

Gun Ana aims to revolutionize the way individuals perceive sunscreen, advocating for its integral role in daily skincare routines. With a commitment to sustainability and efficacy, Gun Ana products boast silky-smooth formulations, botanical extracts, and inspiring packaging.

Inspired by the ancient sun goddess Gun Ana, whose rays symbolized the connection between the sun and the earth, the brand emphasizes the importance of protecting both skin and environment. Gun Ana products are meticulously crafted to offer multifunctional benefits, addressing not only UV protection but also environmental stressors such as pollution and harsh weather conditions.

Gun Ana unveils a lineup of skincare essentials including the lightweight Body Repair Serum, enriched with oat, wheat germ, and rosehip oils, alongside the Protective Face Mist featuring Butterfly Ginger Root and Tremella Extract for HEV-light and pollution protection. Complementing these is the UV Body Mist, which provides lightweight, broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays while keeping skin hydrated with nourishing ingredients. Similarly, the Face Cream SPF 50 offers all-day hydration and defense against environmental stressors with Gun Ana's signature complex of oat oil, wheat germ oil, and rosehip oil, along with hyaluronic complexes.

All products prioritize efficacy and sustainability, epitomizing Gun Ana's commitment to redefining sun care.

Gun Ana products are exclusively available at select retailers, including Cult Beauty, Soho Farmhouse, Big Beauty in Hackney, and GoodHood Shoreditch and direct online at www.gun-ana.com

Distributed across 14 countries in Europe, Gun Ana's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its use of 100% recycled materials and Scandinavian-sourced botanical extracts.

For more information about Gun Ana and its revolutionary Suncare products, please visit www.gun-ana.com

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by Hotel Magazine

Cendyn Boosts Hoteliers’ Search Advertising Campaigns With New Google Integration

Google Search Ads integrates with Cendyn Digital Marketing Platform, offering hoteliers a unified multi-channel advertising solution to boost direct bookings and revenue.

Cendyn, a global integrated hotel technology and services company, has announced the integration of its popular Digital Marketing Platform (DMP) with Google Search Ads.

The integration enables hoteliers to streamline their advertising efforts, accessing Google Ads’ full range of functionality - including keyword research, optimization, geo-targeting, audience segmentation, and tracking - alongside consolidated campaign results and data analysis in Cendyn DMP’s Report Center, encouraging strategic adjustments based on real-time performance.

Hotel marketers are also able to leverage Google Performance Max for travel goals (PMTG) directly from Cendyn’s DMP, serving targeted advertisements across all Google’s advertising products such as YouTube, Gmail, Search, Maps, Hotel Ads and more - reaching more travelers across different stages of their purchase journey.

“Centralization is key to efficiency, and the integration of Google Search Ads into the Cendyn DMP exemplifies our commitment to providing a unified advertising management tool for hoteliers, helping them work smarter, not harder,” said Michael Bennett, President and CMO of Cendyn.

Paid search is crucial in increasing brand visibility, driving qualified website traffic, and generating direct bookings. Whether a hotel’s core advertising objective is brand protection against competitors or OTAs, or to acquire customers through a more generic campaign focused on facilities, services, or location, hoteliers can improve direct bookings and reduce OTA commissions by including paid search as part of their commercial strategy.

Said Bennett: “A data-driven approach is vital for hoteliers proactively managing their advertising and wanting to increase their return on ad spend (ROAS). Our research suggests hotels can boost direct bookings by up to 30% with an all-in-one digital ad management solution. The unification of Google Search Ads into Cendyn DMP boosts efficiency, and empowers hoteliers to elevate their visibility and revenue through simplified and strategic advertising decisions.”

Cendyn DMP integrates with over 150 market-leading engines, CRS, and bespoke technologies. With the new Google Search Ads integration, Cendyn reaffirms its commitment to providing innovative solutions which facilitate a hotel’s success in today’s dynamic digital marketing landscape.

Discover more about Cendyn’s new look and range of products and services at cendyn.com

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by Hotel Magazine

Restaurant Grant Programme Returns For Its Third Year, Backing Small, Independent Operators in Both London and Manchester

American Express-supported grant programme aims to highlight the important role independent restaurants play in their communities and provide valuable support.

Small independent restaurants in London and Manchester can now apply for a share of £220,000 to help grow their business as an American Express-supported grant programme returns for a third year to the UK. 

Run by the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation in partnership with the Association of Town & City Management (ATCM) in the UK, the global Backing International Small Restaurants programme has expanded to nine major cities across five countries in 2024 - London, Manchester, Sydney, Melbourne, Toronto, Montreal, Tokyo, Osaka, and Mexico City.

This year, the UK programme expands to Manchester, a city well known for its vibrant restaurant scene. A total of 20 eligible restaurants of community significance across both Manchester and London will each receive a grant of £11,000 to enhance their business operations and the experience for diners in the months ahead. These improvements will have a long-term impact on business growth and sustainability, allowing owners to grow their customer base and increase community vibrancy.

The grant programme comes at a time when hospitality operators continue to face a challenging market and rising costs across all areas of their business. The programme will help boost a hospitality sector with its sights set firmly on growth over the next 12 months. According to new American Express research*, in the UK, one third (33%) of hospitality businesses plan to invest in their premises over the next 12 months. The top factors driving this investment are the desire to win new customers (43%) and improve the customer experience (36%).  

Restaurant owners in London and Manchester can learn more about the programme, eligibility and apply for the grant at downtown.org/foundation. The deadline for applications is 30 May 2024.

Dan Edelman, Vice President and General Manager of UK Merchant Services at American Express, said: “We’re delighted to once again back small independent restaurants and this year, extend the grant programme to cover venues in Manchester. Our hope is that the grant funding offers a welcome boost to its recipients.”

David Downey, Executive Director, IDA Foundation, said: “We’re excited to be partnering with American Express again for the third year of the Backing International Small Restaurants programme. This year’s expansion to nine global cities demonstrates our shared commitment to boosting long-term sustainability for culturally significant and independent restaurants. By increasing the grant amount, we can provide even greater support to these businesses, empowering them to thrive and continue to be cultural cornerstones within their communities.”

Ojay McDonald, ATCM Chief Executive, added: “The Backing International Small Restaurants programme has provided such an important lifeline for some great food businesses who needed a little bit of help to invest during such difficult economic times. We are excited about the expansion of the programme to Manchester as we understand the value it will bring to the local restaurants and the communities. We look forward to working with American Express, the IDA Foundation, and key members of our network locally to ensure as many businesses as possible get the opportunity to apply this year.”

Quotes from 2023 grantees

Gordon McGowan, owner of Buster Mantis in Deptford, London: “I’m delighted to see this programme return for its third year. Last year’s grant allowed us to carry out essential upgrades to our restaurant – something which ultimately allowed everyone at Buster Mantis to remain focused on our mission of providing people in our community with great food and drink, in a welcoming atmosphere.”

Andrew Poynter, founder and owner, The Goods Office, Stroud Green, London: “The grant has given me a new passion to see through this difficult economic time and we wouldn’t have been able to survive without the programme. Things are looking much better, and the new bar layout and ice cream machine have given us the boost we needed.”

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by Hotel Magazine

CHRISTOPHE ROBIN LAUNCHES HOTEL ESSENTIALS COLLECTION

VANITY GROUP announces new partnership with luxury French haircare brand, Christophe Robin, with an exclusive hotel collection. This partnership marks Christophe Robin’s first foray into the hotel channel and further cements the partnership between THG and VANITY GROUP as their preferred guest amenity partner.

Originally created in a prestigious Parisian salon, Christophe Robin products regularly achieve cult status, winning countless accolades and earning a number of A-list fans.

VANITY GROUP have transformed two of their most-loved ranges into two luxurious, contemporary hotel collections:

• Hydrating: with aloe vera at the base of the formulation, this collection intensely hydrates and transforms hair for silky soft, instantly quenched strands. The hydrating collection has a light, fresh scent with citrus top notes, a floral heart, and woody base notes.
• Regenerating: Awakening and revitalizing, the Regenerating Collection is infused with prickly pear oil, a true natural treasure rich in omega-6, omega-3 and vitamin E to nourish, protect and rejuvenate the hair fibre. Bergamot and orange top notes combine with a floral heart and vanilla and tonka bean base.

CEO and founder of VANITY GROUP, Paul Tsalikis said of the new partnership:

“Christophe Robin is a universally loved and trusted brand. Introducing it into hotels is a huge privilege and we are confident it will sit on some of the most prestigious vanities, connecting guests with a trailblazer in the haircare category. I look forward to continuing to work with THG on bringing their brands to life through hotel collections and unique creative partnerships.”

Shokooh Ossareh, Christophe Robin General Manager, added: “Christophe Robin has always been passionate about improving hair and scalp health through our product range. Partnering with VANITY GROUP enables us to help more people achieve their hair’s full potential, and welcome them into the world of Christophe Robin, through our Hotel Collection. VANITY GROUP have shown time and time again their ability to grow genuine partnerships between hotels and brands. We look forward to seeing the Christophe Robin Hotel Collection unleash its magic in hotels across the globe.”

The Christophe Robin Hotel Collection will be available in 30ml tubes, 50ml mini bottles, 25g triple milled soap, 300ml and 400ml refillable bottles, and innovative 380ml floating non-refillable bottles.

In VANITY GROUP’s continued push for sustainability, the Christophe Robin Hotel Collection is part of the Global Recycled Standard, guaranteeing that at least 20% of certified recycled materials used have traceability from recycled to the final product and is inclusive of ethical and responsible production, chemical restrictions and environmentally friendly practices in production. It is also PETA-approved, Vegan-certified and never tested on animals.

The hotel collection will be exclusively distributed by VANITY GROUP. Christophe Robin products are also available at christopherobin.com and select retailers.

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by Hotel Magazine

Independent Hoteliers See GDS Bookings Rise 34.5%

HotelREZ marks 20 years with a resurgence in GDS bookings.

New insights report highlights strength of GDS for independent accommodation providers.

London, UK - 16th April 2024: The Global Distribution System (GDS) is continuing to perform for independent accommodation providers with reservations up 34.5% in the past year and up 4.2% on 2019 pre-pandemic levels, according to HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts’ Independent Accommodation Insights Report published today.

 

Marking 20 years in business, HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts - one of the world’s leading hotel representation companies - dived into historic channel performance and found GDS reservations have grown 51.2% on a decade ago (2014). Favoured by travel agents, and travel management companies (TMCs), the GDS was one of the first channels to rebound after the pandemic, demonstrating the channels’ value and commercial opportunity.

 

HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts also found Direct Booking (popular with hoteliers for its attractive cost of sale and ownership of the customer) continues to experience high growth rates - up 22.5% in 2023 vs 2022, and strengthening by 80.2% against its pre-pandemic standing. For HotelREZ clients, Direct Booking on mobiles has more than doubled since 2019 - up from 15% of all direct bookings to 32% in 2023.

 

Integrating with CentralREZ, Channel Connect is HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts’ alternative to a channel manager, allowing the Central Reservations System (CRS) to connect properties to over 600 premium travel websites. Channel Connect reservations increased 39.5% year-on-year, 63% versus 2019 pre-pandemic levels, and up a staggering +4,609% on 2014.

 

Mark Lewis, CEO and founder of HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts said: “The way hotels and aparthotels find and secure their sales has vastly changed in the last 20 years. Direct booking on a property’s own website accounts for around a third of all bookings, with OTAs about half that. The GDS is often – incorrectly – regarded as a relic of travel booking. Yet, our booking data shows the GDS has been experiencing consistent growth in the last 10 years and is the dominant booking channel, straddling both leisure and corporate business.”

 

The report from HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts noted numerous post-pandemic trends which contributed to increased bookings and usage of the GDS, including a stronger SME corporate market, larger TMCs dominating the market, an explosion of third-party GDS self-booking tools, and a growth in home-working leisure travel agencies.

 

“The GDS drives high value bookings thanks to the relationships between travel advisors and their buyers. The pandemic highlighted the importance of having an expert handling your booking if something goes wrong within procurement, CSR and sustainability control. Post-pandemic, we’re seeing more business travellers restricted by corporate social responsibility guidelines, and increased need for bill-back facilities. Using the expertise of agents and having access to self-booking tools is a preferred option for the corporate booker rather than using a public OTA,” said Daniel Simmons, CCO, HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts.

 

HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts members benefit from a 20-year strong network of experienced industry professionals that keep abreast of the ever-shifting market landscape providing recommendations and actions to drive the right business.

 

For the full Independent Accommodation Insights Report from HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts please visit: https://bit.ly/3TROIyJ

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by Hotel Magazine

Bob W Announce Cult Fragrance Brand 19-69 as New Guest Amenity Partner

Take me to Capri!
Bob W Announce Cult Fragrance Brand 19-69 as New Guest Amenity Partner 

March 28th 2024, London – Finnish tech-enabled hospitality operator, Bob W announces Swedish fragrance brand 19-69 as their new amenity partner, exclusively distributed by leading global cosmetics provider VANITY GROUP.

Introducing an entirely new category of true tech-enabled hospitality, Bob W provides a smarter and more sustainable alternative to hotels and short-term rentals. The company operates design-led, sustainability-focused, full-service aparthotels in 10 countries and 17 cities across Europe today. Each Bob W apartment incorporates its own bespoke local design and technology that gives guests the Best of Both Worlds: the consistency and quality of a lifestyle hotel, coupled with the local authenticity and amenities of an actual home.

19-69 was founded by Swedish Artist Johan Berglin. Taking inspiration from key countercultural moments, the hotel collection combines surprising fragrance notes with artistic flair and a colourful, contemporary visual identity. Bob W’s hotel collection, Capri, is inspired by the iconic 1963 film Le Mépris starring Brigitte Bardot and set on the namesake island. With notes of sweet orange, ylang ylang and white musk, the collection transports guests to an Italian summer’s day from the comfort of their chic Bob W bathrooms. The refillable 400ml format has been made with 100% PCR material repurposed into the bold and beautiful bottles on the vanities. The 19-69 hotel collection is also fully recyclable, further supporting Bob W’s sustainability mission.

Paul Tsalikis, Founder and CEO of VANITY GROUP said of the partnership: “Bob W is an innovative force in the hospitality industry, combining effortless style with an immovable commitment to sustainability. We are proud to partner with them, delivering a sustainable solution that doesn’t compromise on guest experience. I look forward to seeing the partnership between 19-69 and Bob W grow as they both continue their trailblazing paths.”

Johan Berglin, founder of 19-69 said: “19-69 was designed to be an inclusive brand, welcoming all and approaching fragrance from a countercultural viewpoint. I am so proud to partner with Bob W, a company that supports the same values as we do and approaches hospitality from a singular perspective. I look forward to their guests enjoying the Capri hotel collection every time they stay”.

Niko Karstikko, Co-founder and CEO of Bob W said: “The 19-69 Capri Hotel Collection was a natural choice for us. Not only does it look great in our apartments, but it also supports our key philosophy of building sustainability and eco-practices into every touchpoint of our guest experience. Commitment to sustainability is at the core of our mission. We consider measuring and reducing our carbon footprint is a fundamental aspect of our business. We acknowledge that we aren't perfect, as no one is, but we believe in transparency with our guests and peers. By openly sharing our data, we help our guests make more informed decisions. We are pushing the industry to follow suit. Consumers deserve the facts laid bare. We look forward to the signature yellow pops of Capri gracing our apartment bathrooms,
becoming an integral part of a Bob W stay.”

With 36 aparthotels across 17 cities in Europe today, the total portfolio boasts over 3,000 apartments, with further rapid expansion underway in existing and new markets, there are sunny times ahead for 19-69, Bob W, and the planet.

ABOUT BOB W
Launched in 2019, Bob W is a tech-powered hospitality operator offering a smarter alternative to mainstream hotels and traditional short-term rentals. Sustainably operated, design-led full-service aparthotels combine the consistent quality and aesthetics of a lifestyle hotel with the personal touch and amenities of a short-term rental. Bob W is building the technology to give every guest an authentic 5-star hospitality experience, at scale, while leading the world’s transition to sustainable hospitality.

ABOUT 19-69
Cult cosmetics fragrance brand 19-69 was created by artist Johan Berglin. Inspired by art, music, and countercultural moments from the hippy movement of the ‘60s through to the iconic Rainbow Bar on Sunset Strip, 19-69 fragrances are crafted by artisans and aim to spark conversation. All fragrances are created as unisex, creating an inclusive culture and brand that welcomes everyone. 19-69 launched exclusively in the iconic Collette store in Paris in 2017 and is now stocked in high end boutiques and department stores across the globe.

ABOUT VANITY GROUP
VANITY GROUP is a global cosmetics market leader, established in 2011 with an Australian entrepreneurial spirit. VANITY GROUP provides an ensemble of licensed cosmetic brands whilst focusing on the design, development, manufacture, and marketing of luxury guest cosmetics products.
With offices located in London, Sydney, Dubai, and Shanghai, VANITY GROUP comprises of advanced research and creative laboratories, ultra-modern manufacturing facilities, an inhouse master design studio and an extensive warehousing and distribution network in over 75 countries. VANITY GROUP are creators of everything beautiful and masters of storytelling through visual design, fragrances and scents that create emotional connections around the world. VANITY GROUP is a company of choice to hotel groups around the globe.

Image courtesy of Bob W 

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by Hotel Magazine

Experiences and Ecommerce Demand Increase Q1 2024 Hotel Revenue

Hotel partners of hospitality technology company Journey increased their average order value by 10.3% in Q1 2024

Cheltenham, UK - 15 April 2024: Seamless digital transactions available at all hours, paired with the desire for memorable in-person interactions and experiences, has seen hotels boost the value of their online bookings, according to Journey. Providing guests with an all-in-one digital retail booking experience has led to Journey’s hotel clients increasing their average order value by 10.33% in Q1 2024, compared to the same time last year.

 

By facilitating easy purchasing, Journey’s revolutionary ecommerce platform - recently shortlisted in the 2024 Information Technology Awards’ ‘Innovative Software Development’ category - drove an overall 118.9% increase in revenue for their clients in the first quarter of 2024. Hotels using Journey’s ecommerce platform also experienced improved conversion on their direct booking websites, with an average conversion rate of 4.14% in Q1 2024 - significantly higher than the industry average of 3%.

 

Simon Bullingham, CEO and Founder of Journey, said: “Half of our hotel clients’ bookings are made outside the traditional business hours of 9am to 5pm. People crave convenience so using a holistic ecommerce platform to ensure potential guests can access a hotel’s full range of facilities and services when booking is without doubt the best way to secure bookings and capture incremental revenue.

 

“Cross-selling at check-out is long-established in physical stores with items placed near the queues and tills, while online retailers promote personalised ‘recommended’ extras, but the hospitality industry has been slow to adopt retail practices. For hoteliers, Journey’s ecommerce platform is the best-in-class way of showcasing everything a hotel has to offer and making it instantly bookable, transforming a hotel booking into an online retail experience.”

 

Furthering their commitment to help hoteliers maximise commercial performance, Journey has combined their strategists, analysts and client account teams into a new Performance Hub, led by Performance Director Susanne Williams. The Hub’s digital marketing experts drove a Return On Advertising Spend (ROAS) of 13 to 1 across the quarter, well above the hotel and travel industry benchmark range of 5-10, completing a circle of support to the UK’s leading luxury independent hotels and resorts.

 

Said Williams: “The digital landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace. For a hotel to not only be competitive but to succeed requires expertise and an army of support - something independent and boutique hotels can’t afford to hire in-house. By pooling Journey’s expertise together under our new Performance Hub, we’re able to enhance our already exceptional results for our clients and help them continue to grow their direct business and increase profitability.”

 

Data from Journey’s 750 clients also highlighted Mondays as the peak day to make luxury hotel bookings, and 8pm to 9pm as the busiest hour. Further social behavioural changes were reflected in devices used to book: mobile remains the primary device (54.81% of traffic) but experienced a 6.9% fall, offset by a 9.95% increase in desktop and a 6.45% increase in tablet bookings.

 

Based in Cheltenham, the company has grown from 59 staff in Q1 2023 to 147 in Q1 2024, reflecting the increased demand for their ecommerce and experience technology platforms, alongside their performance services.

 

Discover more at journey.travel

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by Hotel Magazine

How to Become a Concierge for a Hotel?

Becoming a concierge at a hotel can be an exciting career path filled with unique opportunities. This role not only allows you to work in a dynamic environment but also provides the chance to meet diverse guests from around the world.

Concierges are often seen as the face of the hotel, responsible for delivering exceptional service and assisting guests with various requests, from dining reservations to local recommendations.

With experience and excellent customer service skills, you can expect a good income alongside benefits and the potential for career advancement over time. As you build relationships within the hospitality industry, the path to success can lead to further opportunities in luxury service sectors.

What is the Role of a Concierge?

A concierge in a hotel is the linchpin of exceptional guest service. Their primary role is to ensure guests have a memorable and enjoyable stay by catering to their every need.

Here's what a concierge typically does:

• Greeting Guests and Assisting with Check-in and Check-out Processes: A concierge's first interaction with guests sets the tone for their stay. They must greet guests warmly, assist with check-ins and check-outs, and provide information about hotel facilities.
• Providing Information About Local Attractions, Dining Options, and Entertainment: Guests often rely on concierges for recommendations on local attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options. A knowledgeable concierge can elevate the guest experience by offering insider tips and personalised suggestions.
• Making Reservations for Dining, Transportation, and Activities: From booking a table at a popular restaurant to arranging transportation and organising activities, a concierge handles various reservations to ensure guests have a seamless experience.
• Handling Guest Requests and Addressing Any Issues Promptly: A concierge must be adept at handling various guest requests, from extra amenities to special arrangements, and addressing any issues that arise promptly and professionally.
• Coordinating with Other Hotel Staff to Ensure a Seamless Guest Experience: Collaboration is key for a concierge. They work closely with other hotel staff to coordinate services and ensure that guests receive consistent and high-quality service throughout their stay.

In summary, the role of a concierge is integral to creating an outstanding hospitality experience, as they bridge the gap between guests and the myriad services available to enhance their stay.

Educational Requirements

While there are no strict educational requirements to become a concierge, having a background in hospitality or tourism can be advantageous. Here are some preferred qualifications:

• A High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most employers require at least a high school diploma.
• A Degree or Certification in Hospitality Management, Tourism, or a Related Field: Formal education in hospitality management or tourism can provide a competitive edge, with many colleges offering relevant degrees and certifications.
• Relevant Experience in Customer Service or Hospitality: Roles like front desk assistant or waiter offer valuable skills in guest interactions and service excellence.

Skills Needed to Succeed as a Concierge

To excel as a concierge, certain skills and qualities are essential. Here are the key skills you need to develop:

• Customer Service: Exceptional service and anticipating guest needs are key for a great concierge.
• Communication: Clear and professional verbal and written communication is essential.
• Problem-Solving: Promptly addressing guest issues is vital for satisfaction and reputation. 
• Organisational Skills: Efficiently managing multiple tasks ensures timely service.
• Discretion: Handling guest information confidentially is crucial for building trust.
• Local Knowledge: Familiarity with attractions and events helps provide valuable recommendations. 

How Much Does a Concierge Make Per Year?

Concierge salaries in the UK vary by experience, location, and hotel rating:

• Entry-Level: £18,000 - £22,000 annually
• Mid-Level: £23,000 - £27,000 annually
• Experienced: £28,000+ annually, plus tips and bonuses.

Finding a Job as a Concierge

Landing a job as a concierge requires strategic planning and preparation. Here are some steps to help you secure a position:

Step 1: Research Hotels 

Look for hotels with a good reputation and high standards. These establishments are more likely to value and invest in quality concierge services.

Step 2: Prepare Your CV and Cover Letter 

Tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experience. A well-crafted CV and cover letter can make a strong impression on potential employers.

Step 3: Apply Online 

Use hotel websites and job boards to find and apply for open positions. Many hotels post job openings on their official websites and popular job portals.

Step 4: Network 

Attend industry events and connect with professionals in the hospitality sector. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and provide valuable insights into the industry.

CV Example: Concierge With No Experience

This CV highlights transferable skills and relevant experience, making it suitable for entry-level concierge positions even without direct experience in the hospitality industry.

Cover Letter Examples for Concierge

A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other candidates. Here are 2 cover letter examples for a concierge position:

Conclusion

Becoming a hotel concierge in the UK is a rewarding career for those who love delivering exceptional service and crafting memorable guest experiences. By grasping the role, meeting educational requirements, honing essential skills, and following the job search steps, you can pave your way to success. Remember, excelling as a concierge hinges on your commitment to guest satisfaction and your ability to manage various tasks with professionalism and poise.

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by Hotel Magazine