Not a single day goes by that we hear about coronavirus and its negative impact on travel and hospitality businesses. Yet, the hotel industry had to deal with different crisis and viruses earlier. For example, the SARS in 2003. The truth is the pandemic is temporary and shall pass. Thus, we should continue to plan for the future, as well as take steps to decrease long-term damage from coronavirus and drive faster recovery. Here are some suggestions to help hospitality conquer the difficulties that COVID-19 brings.
Implement Cloud Technologies
Remote working becomes the new normal these days. Thanks to innovations and technology, even such a people-centric industry as hospitality experiences an increase in telecommuting. In fact, hoteliers can manage all the hotel processes without even being there. With cloud-based Property Management Systems, they are able to control all operations at anytime from anywhere.
Focus on Millennial Travelers (Millennials (Generation Y) are defined as the demographic group born between 1981 and 1999. They are tech-savvy, innovative thinkers and influential buyers.)
Millennials are the most keen to get back out and explore the world after the corona virus ends. Sure, they are worried about the outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Utilise this time for Hotel Maintenance and Renovation
Corona virus outbreak doesn’t mean hoteliers are closing doors and are just waiting for this period to end. It’s a perfect time to catch up and improve. Whether it is an impulsive renovation or completing your Property Improvement Plan, there’s no better time to do this.
Emphasize on meal delivery from the hotel restaurant
Hoteliers can take steps to increase restaurant sales during the COVID-19. Reconsider your marketing campaigns and try to find effective means of limiting declines like offering specials or deals (two-for-one meals, a free dessert). Even though you might lose money by giving away free items, it still helps increase the bottom line.
Remember about concierge apps that can help provide both hotel guests and non-guests with the option of meal delivery right to their rooms without even talking to someone.
Follow the latest government assistance and financial support during coronavirus in your area.
In most countries of the world, governments defer payments, cut taxes, launch business support grant funds, make low-interest working capital loans available to businesses, etc.
Re-evaluate existing health and safety policies, and procedures
In these contexts, hoteliers should promote proper health and safety measures, which may include the following:
Self-service pay systems.
Orders through mobile apps.
Non-contact service and order deliveries.
Complimentary hand-sanitizer stationed at the entrances and exits.
Suspension of unnecessary work-place gatherings.
Readiness to deal with staffing reductions.
Check the accuracy of the information on the coronavirus
As new information is constantly appearing, not all of it is accurate. Hoteliers should take special care to share verified information and not contribute to spreading misinformation to customers and employees.
Mr. Indraneel Bose
Asst. Professor
Bhikaji Cama Subharti Institute of Hotel Management
