Smart Property Improvement

January 14, 2013

smart property improvement

With the economy finally getting back on track, it’s now easier to get the financing you need for rebranding, conversions, renovations or new construction projects. The time is right to get a property improvement plan (PIP) on the table. It is one of the most critical components in improving your guest experience and increasing revPAR.

Why a PIP? Why now?
The purpose of most PIPs is to keep properties in compliance with all existing and new brand standards. Franchisors want to protect their brands and the interests of their investors, as well as give guests the consistent, fully updated experiences they are looking for in today’s market. So, the question is, “How do you implement a PIP with as much efficiency (and as few headaches) as possible?”

Know your numbers
Taking time to understand the bid process and construction planning is essential. Start by making a side-by-side comparison of potential resources and their bids to be sure all feature the same scope and details. Here are some helpful tips to consider:

  • Don’t assume the lowest bid is the best price. Does it include all the same elements of the higher bids?
  • Avoid skimping on quality of goods and materials in order to save money. Most branded hotels have specific products that must be used so there may be little variation in pricing. But if there is, take into consideration the lifecycles of goods and their replacement value. For example, will the lower-priced draperies fade in sunlight and need to be replaced more often?
  • Be sure each bidder has policies in place regarding workers’ interaction with guests, on-the-job conduct, smoking/lunch breaks, radio playing, trash disposal, cleanup, etc.

Work with experienced hospitality professionals to maximize ROI
Implementing a PIP can be an expensive proposition. When renovations involve construction, it’s critical to contract with professionals that specialize in executing hospitality projects. They will understand the importance of keeping your property fully operational during the project and will develop specific strategies for isolating the construction phase of the project for minimal impact on your property and your guests.

With the ultimate goal of achieving and maintaining high brand standards, you might want to employ a turnkey partner to execute the PIP. By turning your PIP over to these experts, you can concentrate on increasing your bookings and satisfying guests, while leaving the details of property improvement to them.

The benefits are enticing …

  • Elimination of the headaches you don’t want and the freedom to focus on running your business
  • Minimization of the impact of the renovation on your budget, your staff, and your guests
  • Quality improvement and cost savings

A turnkey partner focused on the hospitality market must have the experience, resources and talent to execute your project efficiently and cost-effectively.

What to look for in a turnkey PIP partner

A partner who has a deep understanding of your brand, your property and your business will have the knowledge required to execute your PIP in the most professional and efficient manner. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the economies of scale this partner offers, from FF&E options to inspection services and ADA compliance. Here are more factors to consider when making your decision:

  • Choose a partner with the right expertise. Look for award-winning design and brand-strengthening solutions that are in line with your property’s and brand’s unique needs.
  • Be sure the firm you are considering can deliver your brand consistently, whether it is working on one property or across multiple properties.
  • Evaluate project management expertise. A favorable track record isn’t created overnight – it’s built over time, with strong relationships that continue long after a project is completed.
  • Ensure that your partner produces a design that fits your overall budget and timeline requirements.
  • Look for clear indicators of innovation and cutting-edge technology, like an online design center.

A full-circle, 360° approach will offer the most value and expertise for the money because every aspect of the project is covered, from project financial management and design development through procurement and implementation.

 

Only American Hotel Register Company provides 360° OS&E and FF&E solutions for the hospitality industry.

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in Normal, IL, recently won the 2012 Holiday Inn Express Renovation of the Year award at the Annual IHG Conference. This was just one example of the hundreds of projects that was managed by American Hotel’s FF&E Solutions team in 2012. As a result of the collaborative efforts of American Hotel and IHG, this hotel is experiencing its highest occupancy rates in 12 years.

 So, whether it’s one room or one thousand, or whether you’re planning a renovation, conversion or new build, you’ll find our experts will go above and beyond your expectations. Join the industry’s top management companies and hoteliers – choose American Hotel for your next project.

 360° solutions, with world-class service designed around you

Not sure where to start? Contact us today!

Booming Boutiques

December 19, 2012

A hospitality segment that some have called “recession proof” – sounds too good to be true, right? Well, not exactly…

HVS estimated that the boutique segment would double in size from 2011 to 2013 – and it appears they were spot on. Boutique hotels have been booming over the past decade, particularly in London and other popular European cities. This trend has carried over into the United States as well. Hospitality expert Bjorn Hanson estimated boutique hotels account for 3 percent of all hotels in the United States, but could grow to as much as 10 percent in the largest urban markets in the next 10 to 15 years.

What exactly does “boutique” mean? According to a recent New York Times article, the terms “not cookie cutter,” “chic,” and “100 rooms or less,” have all been used to describe this booming market.  The article goes on to name several big name hotel brands that are “thinking smaller” to build their business.

The main reason boutiques are faring well is because guests are looking for more than just a room number – they want comfort, individualized rooms, personalized service, and specialty treatment. A boutique hotel offers a unique vacation experience, and often times come with superior customer service.

But whether you are a small hotel or a large chain, the characteristics listed above should always pertain to you. Details such as artwork, unique furniture, and plush towels and linens can help give a more “homey” and boutique feeling. Browse our catalog and see how you can get started setting yourself apart from competition.

Hotel Impossible Season 2 Starts December 3rd

November 21, 2012

hotel impossible season 2 starts on december 3rd

Get Ready For Round 2!

Grab some popcorn and get ready for some down-and-dirty hotel renovating action! Season two of Hotel Impossible kicks off Monday, December 3 on the Travel Channel. American Hotel has been working closely with Anthony Melchiorri and the Hotel Impossible crew, and we can assure you that this season will be packed full of surprises, more great products and success stories.

For those of you who aren’t already acquainted with Anthony Melchiorri, the 20-year hospitality expert has a reputation for understanding a company’s vision and bringing it to light. His direct, sometimes blunt, approach is a fan-favorite and gets the job done. From structural damage, to dated design, to just plain dirty, he seamlessly picks the right products, design themes and management changes for each different hotel’s situation.

The American Hotel team is honored to be a part of this amazing series and excited to see the success from last season carry on into the living rooms of hospitality fans around the country. Be sure to tune in to this season to see what American Hotel products Anthony will choose to bring struggling hotels to the next level!

Want to purchase product seen on the show? Click here.

 

Prepare Your Property For The Winter Months

October 22, 2012

The onset of fall means it’s time to prepare for the change in seasons! From getting rooms up to par and ready for cool weather to planning for holiday décor and events, the winter months bring ample opportunity to impress guests with getting the subtle details right.

Something as simple as providing pumpkin spice coffee or peppermint hot cocoa in the lobby can be a warm welcome to guests coming in from the cold. Depending on the holiday, tasteful décor can also really put guests in the festive spirit. Use fall gords and squashes, neutral colors and dried autumn flowers in the weeks leading up to Halloween and Thanksgiving. Crisp pine scents, poinsettias, and simple accents of gold and silver can be used during December. It’s important to stay tasteful and subtle with décor – remember that less is often more.

When it comes to guest rooms, comfort is key. Make sure you have satisfactory heating devices, bedding and comforters.Providing plush robes and slippers for your guests can really be a pleasant surprise. Have any windows that aren’t directly accessible? Cover them with plastic coating. Extra insulation can go a long way towards saving on heating bills, and can help keep guest rooms warm and cozy.

We’re sure you’re already feeling the crisp air, so get started now. Browse our website to see how you can ensure a warm, welcoming, and festive holiday vacation for your guests this year.

Smartphones and the Hospitality Industry

October 12, 2012

smartphones and hospitality

The New York Times estimated that by 2016, over one billion people will own a smartphone. It seems that every few months a sleeker, better phone is released – while older models get less expensive and more accessible. We are no doubt experiencing the beginning of a smartphone boom – and what does that mean for the future of the hotel and hospitality industry?

From researching, booking and reviewing hotels – smartphones play a vital role. Today’s on-the-go lifestyle means that your hotel’s website, Facebook account and competitive prices will be accessed via smartphone more than ever before. When a guest arrives at your property, a large percentage of them will “check-in” via Foursquare, Facebook or another social site – making your page then visible to all of their friends and followers.  Hotels seeking a competitive edge definitely need to ensure their online channels and search engine marketing are in top shape.

The number of mobile bookings in the travel space has accelerated from $20 million in 2008 to over $200 million in 2010 – and that number continues to grow. Whether for business trips, last-minute vacations or when people just quite can’t get to a computer at the minute, mobile booking is a convenient solution. And evidence suggests that even investing in a mobile booking app may be worth it. Some hotels are even using smartphone apps internally to help with food and beverage operations, and even as a room keys. 

Reputation management is a new buzzword in the marketing world. Google reviews and other rating services offer the convenience of rating a room and hotel experience on the guests’ plane or car ride home while it’s still fresh in their mind. Just the simple technology of being able to take a photo of your special anniversary hotel room, a neat display in the lobby, or another unique aspect of your hotel and instantly text it to your friend is word-of-mouth marketing at its finest.

As we continue to see how technology enhances the hospitality industry, we encourage you to stay on top of trends. And for that extra boost – we suggest browsing our in-room smartphone products to really impress your tech-savvy guests!

Hotel Event Planning

September 27, 2012

The Ryder Cup is only hours away! While you may be just now gearing up for the big event, chances are that hotels in the Medinah, IL, area have been planning for months.

Planning for a large event within the community takes a proactive approach. There are so many details to consider, but the real challenge is staying up to date on everything going on in the city and getting the inside scoop. Our biggest piece of advice is to begin attending Chamber of Commerce meetings and networking with decision-makers. For events like the Ryder Cup, discussions of sponsors and other details will take place and present opportunities for your hotel to be at the forefront.

Incentives such as offering a discount with ticket purchases and offering group discounts or lower rates on a particular weekend can really put you ahead of the game. Invest in advertising on the ticket or event website and get those fans in your doors.

Think of details that your guests will need during their stay. Coordinate taxis and shuttles to be on-hand before, during and after the event. Perhaps the hotel coffee shop needs to open earlier than usual, or the dining room should stay open late to accommodate the event hours. Have a concierge on hand to assist with questions about the venue, other things to do in the city, and restaurant recommendations. Inform your staff of any events guests will be involved with to engage in conversation. On the big day, placing a banner or signage may help get guests ready and excited for the event and remember to show support for the event they are passionate about.

Proper planning and preparedness will ensure that your hotel excels during busy events and special activities. Taking advantage of these opportunities and delivering excellence is sure to keep you on top.

Top of Bed Options

September 20, 2012

top of bed options

The bed is one of the first things guests look at when entering a room. It has the potential to set the tone for their entire stay and tie the whole room together. And if your bed is stylish, comfortable and clean, it is sure to bring repeat business.

When was the last time your hotel updated its bedding? Do you use accents and pillows for a polished look? If you have to think about it too long, then it’s time to take a look at our Registry ® Triple Sheeting options.

Forget the bedspread and bed scarf. Triple sheeting is a simple technique many hotels use to save time and money. Traditional bedspreads can cost between $100-$250 per piece, and duvet covers cause housekeeping staff to spend up to three times longer making each bed. With triple sheeting, the bed scarf is printed directly onto the top sheet, creating a great looking, easy to care for bed.

By replacing a bedspread or duvet cover with one additional sheet, the triple sheeting technique can reduce overall operational costs. And triple-sheeting components can be laundered after each guest to ensure a sanitary environment. It’s the perfect technique to ensure cleanliness, style and efficiency.

American Hotel also offers multiple options for pillow shams, top sheets and accent pillows for that final polished, top-of-bed look and comfort. Available in multiple colors for every season and décor style, our bedding products guarantee plush, luxurious comfort and top quality.

Glancing at photos of the Best Hotel Beds, many of them are simple, elegant and use accents to bring the entire room together. Please browse our selection or consult one of our staff to achieve the exact look you’re hoping for.

Celebrate International Housekeeping Week

September 12, 2012

housekeeping week

If you’ve never been directly involved with hotel housekeeping staff, it may seem unnecessary to dedicate an entire week to thanking them. However, let us assure you that housekeeping is one of the most vital departments in all hotels. Not only do housekeepers make guests feel comfortable in a clean, organized room, they also perform extensive amounts of behind-the-scenes jobs such as flipping mattresses, doing hundreds of pounds of laundry per day, and dealing with harsh chemicals.

According to the Les Roches School of Hospitality Management, the hotel industry is expected to grow 4 percent per year through 2019. That’s over a 24 percent growth from right now! Competition and the number of housekeeping departments will expand as well, making the need to create and keep a quality housekeeping staff a top priority for hotels.

A typical housekeeper cleans up to 16 rooms per day at an estimated 20-30 minutes per room. And opening the door to each new room is a complete surprise – there’s no telling what shape guests have left it in. That’s over six hours of squatting, bending, kneeling, lifting, etc. The job requires training, dedication and loyalty – and your entire hotel’s reputation can lie with one staff member.

Through proper morale, education and training, fair pay and a little bit of understanding, hotel management can ensure they get the most from their housekeeping department. Rotate jobs that do not have to be performed every day accordingly, assign help when needed for heavy-duty jobs and provide quality supplies. Spend the few extra dollars to get lighter vacuum cleaners, greener chemicals, and easy-push housekeeping carts. Have monthly luncheons and recognize superior staff members. But most importantly – do not treat the staff as insignificant. They are the foundation of your business, ensuring that guests are satisfied, and are an imperative part of keeping rooms in lasting, tip-top shape.

So, how will YOU celebrate International Housekeeping Week this September 9-15?

Introducing – Dream Water

August 16, 2012

introducing dream water american hotel register company

What if you could offer your guests the gift of sleep?

Whether it’s stress from business travel, unfamiliar sleeping surroundings, or a change in schedule, many guests experience difficulty falling asleep. Why not offer your guests Dream Water® – a natural, zero-calorie, sleep and relaxation aid?

This convenient, TSA-compliant lightly-flavored shot of water features the unique SleepStat Natural Blend: a proprietary formula of GABA, which helps reduce anxiety; Melatonin, which helps induce sleep; and 5-HTP, which helps improve sleep quality. Scientifically formulated and drug free, Dream Water’s key ingredients work together to help guests relax, fall asleep naturally, and wake up refreshed.

With proper placement in hotel gift shops, on night stands, and in mini bars, Dream Water can provide significant incremental revenue. Please contact us for additional information and strategies on how to seamlessly integrate Dream Water into your hotel.

Go Green For Comfort

August 14, 2012

Hospitality Insights publication Ernst & Young published in 2008 that “organizations, corporations and consumers are increasingly focusing on the need to exist in harmony with their surroundings and reduce their environmental footprints. The hospitality industry is no exception, and finally, the concept of sustainability has begun to gain momentum in this sector.”

The report was spot-on.  Going green has certainly become a standard in the hospitality industry and something guests are almost expecting to see during their stay. From energy saving appliances to cleaning supplies and bedding – there are so many ways to boost your sustainability efforts.

It’s a trend that is only growing stronger and if your hotel is falling behind, it’s time to start making changes. The American Hotel Register Living Green program is offering up to 40% off on 1888 Mills Green Threads linen and terry through December 2012. These linens offer a pure, plush, organic comfort with the assurance of 100% organic cotton that is grown free of pesticides and processed in a factory free of any harmful substances in production of the product, making it Oeko-Tex certified. This product is also top quality with long-lasting exceptional softness and anti-pill bed superiority over traditional linens.

Not only will your guests appreciate that you are showing respect for the environment, they will also notice a difference in their comfort level. The Habitat Suites in Austin, TX has seen evidence of guests experiencing better sleep in their hotel than in hotels that use pesticides and toxic cleaning chemicals.

Check out this extensive database of other hotels that are increasing sustainability on the EcoGreenHotel website. If you could use some additional tips on Living Green, check out our wide selection of products or contact one of our representatives for energy saving ideas and tips.

Going green not only appeals to guests, it can help save you money. It’s a complete win-win situation!