Every new year has so much potential but with continued US political strife, the economic slowdown of some of the world’s biggest economies, and the potential break up of Europe (the world’s biggest trade group) it seems as if a perfect storm is brewing around the world.  We also have the simple fact that economies have always been cyclical for centuries and we have been booming for a while.

You probably should make a plan to fill your hotel In case your lucrative corporate bookings dry up.

Globally, Hotelplanner and Meetings.com book more groups into more hotels than anyone else. We have been through recessions before and know what group business drops and what groups keep buying. Here is our insight into the markets you need to cater for to future proof your hotel.

Conferences 

– Conference bookings always go down in a recession. New events, or events in their 2nd year are fragile and much more likely to cancel. An annual event that has run for over 5 years is more likely to keep going. The organiser’s will want to lower their minimums and if you can work with them now, they will remember any favours you do for them in the future.

Family gatherings

– maybe a pain to host and not have the follow up bookings you want but people will celebrate a birthday whenever it happens.

Weddings –  book thousands of wedding groups every year. We know that people save for a wedding for years! If love calls in 2019 it will happen… make sure you target this segment.

With our partnerships with the Knot and Wedding Wire we

Leisure – 

Holiday spend may get reduced but will not stop.

Sports travel – 

Only a World War has ever stopped the Olympics so from amateur little league to the biggest pro sports events, sport is going to keep going. Make sure you have a plan to attract and host teams and fans.

If you would like to grow your group bookings in 2019 give me a call. We are launching new advertising products for 2019 and have helped hotels increase their group business 700% more than their competitors. I would be happy to put the resources in place to set a strategy for you to really ensure you target this lucrative market in 2019.

Happy New year