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Key Tips for Successful Opening Revenue

Opening a new hotel is no small feat, and with the constant pressures to ensure sustainable revenue growth, it's essential to implement strategies that level the playing field. With years of experience in opening hotels under my belt, I've discovered three crucial takeaways that significantly influence a hotel's success once the doors open. So, let's dive right in and supercharge your new hotel's revenue potential.
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_{Turn on Distribution as Early as Possible}

Expanding your hotel's bookings distribution early on directly correlates to its successful opening and revenue targets. Building systems to enable onward distribution is vital, especially for independent hotels without a brand. You'll need to collaborate with key partners like Online Travel Agents (OTAs) and wholesalers, put agreements in place, and ensure seamless connectivity with each partner's site.‍

The earlier you start, the better:

• ‍‍14 Months Out:
  Establish the base distribution build
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• 13 Months Out:
  Execute a mock room photoshoot and engage a copywriter to create content
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• 12 Months Out:
  Launch your pre-opening website with real-time availability‍
  

_{Voice Strategy}

Ensure the addition of an experienced central reservations team, as their expertise in new hotel launches will guarantee seamless conversions and increased bookings. During the pre-opening phase and for about six months after, expect a 30% increase in voice call inquiries.

_{Invest in Photography (Even Without a Finished Hotel)}

Photos sell rooms, and no photos can kill your conversion rate. Investing in excellent photography even before the hotel is complete can significantly boost your online presence and conversion potential. Create a mock room, rent or buy FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) that resembles what's coming, and capture every possible angle. The initial investment pays off in dividends, in my experience often generating 20x ROI. Remember that guests rarely remember each detail in a photo by the time they check-in.

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Develop key Revenue Strategy Milestones

Don't fall behind on critical milestones pre-opening. Checking these off the list early reaps significant benefits:

• 11 Months Out
  Train agents on the hotel and destination, bring voice reservations online, and start contracting with OTAs and wholesalers
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• 10 Months Out:
  Develop a plan for group rates and contract approvals

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_{Consider This pro tip: Convert & Sign Weddings, Early On}

Creating a wedding concept showroom & kitchen captivates brides and boosts pre-opening sales. Let them experience tastings, visualize settings and materials, and see outdoor venues with breathtaking views. The room details are often secondary to this market, I've seen hotels use this strategy and secure 15+ weddings even before your hotel opens its doors.‍

‍Key Takeaways

Opening a new hotel can be daunting, but hitting the ground running in terms of distribution, marketing, and strategy will significantly affect your revenue outcomes. Keep these essential tips in mind, and soon enough, your hotel will be the talk of the town and a revenue success story. Ensure you focus on establishing distribution early; invest in quality photography to sell rooms, and prioritize revenue strategy milestones to stay on track. These three key takeaways will set any new hotel up for long-term success not only in its opening months but far into the future. So, put these recommendations into action and watch your hotel's revenue soar!

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