For UK pubs, providing accommodation is an opportunity to boost incomings with an additional revenue stream. Food and drink are what one would commonly expect to find in a pub - and now it seems that the third revenue stream taking over the industry is accommodation.
Pubs are no longer seen as a lower-end option for overnight stays for foreign tourists and British holiday-makers. So much so that 56 per cent of pubs have said that accommodation has added to their incomings.
What’s important to guests?
Cleanliness
Slips in quality are most noticeable in the accommodation industry. For a good reputation, cleanliness is paramount. Bedrooms, bathrooms and communal areas need to be regularly inspected.
Noise
As you’d expect, noise can be an issue in a pub. For rooms that are in close proximity to the main bar area, ensure that they are well-insulated to minimise any noise so that your guests can get a good night’s sleep. Once the pub has closed, make staff aware of their noise levels during tidying and locking-up.
Breakfast
Whether it is cooked or continental, put as much effort into offering a good breakfast as you would into any other menu in your pub. Offering breakfast may mean additional staff and perhaps an earlier start for your chefs. However, breakfast is a service that may be expected by guests to be included in the price, or at the very least available in the morning. Breakfast is the last opportunity to provide a lasting impression on guests.
Challenges
- Whilst food and drink are services that stop when the pub closes, accommodation requires a 24/7 service meaning more responsibility.
- It’s likely that there will already be established accommodation in the area.
- Financial outlay for the development.
- The possibility of an increase in staffing to help achieve the high level of service needed.
Make it unique
Larger hotel chains are often accused of having no personality in their rooms, this is a reason that many go to independent accommodation providers such as pubs. Avoid generic hotel room standards in favour of a theme. In the same way that your bar and restaurant do, bring your taste upstairs and decorate to stand out from the crowd. Personal touches can also make a guest’s stay that bit more enjoyable.
Pub owners shouldn’t look for savings on quality. Instead, invest in furnishings that add to the aura of quality and Britishness. Trent Furniture’s hotel furnishings have furniture for every type of décor you are trying to achieve. Browse our full selection on this website.