The last few years have been undeniably difficult for businesses all over the country, and the current energy crisis is adding even more uncertainty, frustration and worry.
Self-catering businesses will be facing many new challenges as their revenues are directly impacted by the upcoming energy price cap increase, especially those with multiple properties, and we understand this is an anxious time.
We don’t claim to have all the answers but as the saying goes, knowledge is power, so we will make sure that you know all of the options available to you when it comes to your SuperControl account.
As a starting point, we’ve come up with five small changes that could make a big difference to your bottom line.
Perfect pricing
Dynamic Pricing with Beyond is here to help you boost occupancy and enhance revenue. It lets you use market insights and real-time data to price your properties, saving you time and optimising the value of every booking. Pricing can be one of the trickiest things to get right. Dynamic Pricing takes the guesswork out of pricing so you can focus on other parts of the business safe in the knowledge that your pricing is optimal.
Added protection
Our partner, Booking Protect, is an international refund specialist that supports accommodation providers of all shapes and sizes. While this offers your guests confidence during their buying journey, it also provides you, the accommodation provider, the opportunity to make a 30% commission each time the enhanced refund terms branded Booking Protect are purchased through your business.
The full package
Upselling is a fantastic way to not only boost your revenue but also create a magical experience for your guests. Some only think about the added extras and finishing touches once they reach their destination but for others, the excitement begins as soon as the booking is confirmed. Use your booking extras to add value for your guests whilst also optimising revenue for your business.
Covering costs
Booking fees are very much a personal choice but even a small percentage booking fee can provide additional income. Fees can be added to the total booking price and are super easy to implement through your SuperControl account. The most important thing is for you to be able to maximise your revenue to cover costs and sometimes the smallest changes can have the biggest impact.
Uplift commission
Booking channels such as Airbnb and Booking.com are an excellent way to get more eyes on your property and can certainly be helpful in converting ‘lookers’ into ‘bookers’. Although paying a commission for this service can be off-putting, did you know that uplifts can be put in place? By increasing the booking price ever so slightly, you can offset the cost of commission meaning there’s no difference in your revenue, but you can still reap the rewards.
We hope these tips will be useful but don’t forget there are plenty of sources of information and support out there. Reach out if you do need an extra helping hand and we will get through these challenging times together.
Sources of support
Self-catering associations
We work closely with PASC UK (England and Wales), ASSC (Scotland) and ISCF (Ireland) who are lobbying for change, representing the industry’s needs and ensuring that the Governments fully understand the impacts and implications of the cost-of-living crisis. The support of our associations is so valuable, and we truly believe that building relationships and working collaboratively is key to success in this industry. Get in touch for ongoing support and business advice.
UK Government green taxes and reliefs
Find out more about how environmentally friendly operations can save you money through low energy exemptions and energy-efficient technology.
Ofgem energy advice
Get advice about energy efficiency and business grants, loans and schemes from the government, local councils, energy suppliers and other organisations. The Smart Export Guarantee can also support UK-based businesses using energy-efficient technology.
Energy Saving Trust support
The Trust can offer advice on energy efficiency, strategy, funding and technology.
Climate Change Levy
Find out how registering for the CCL and committing to lowering energy consumption could result in reduced energy costs for your business.
Business loans
Business Energy Scotland offers SME loans up to 100K to help pay for energy and carbon-saving upgrades, as well as cashback grants of up to 20K. Additionally, Zero Waste Scotland’s Circular Economy Investment Fund supports businesses in Scotland with innovative circular economy growth projects.
