Representatives of the hotel industry consider the holiday season to have been successful, although there is a noticeable trend towards ever shorter stays booked at the so-called last minute. Experts look optimistically at the coming autumn-winter period, which for many establishments marks the start of the conference season, as well as the period of private and corporate stays around Christmas. Among the amenities most valued by business customers, modern conference and event facilities and a rich restaurant offer are mentioned first and foremost. Private clients value the wellness area, family-friendly facilities and additional attractions organized by the hotels.
The summer season, as well as the upcoming autumn-winter months, are discussed by hotel representatives from various parts of Poland with different types of operations. Experts also point out the key challenges currently facing the industry, as well as current trends and preferences of customers regarding their stay in hotels.
How do hotel representatives rate the holiday season?
Jerzy Sobczak, General Manager, Hotel Czarny Potok Resort SPA & Conference:
The beginning of the summer season was very difficult. The reservation window was reduced to a minimum. There was also a lot of uncertainty about our guests’ reaction to the price increase, which due to the economic situation was necessary in our case. However, from the beginning of July the situation started to clear up – we noticed large increases and many last-minute booking. The nice weather contributed to this. Ultimately, it was the record season in terms of revenues and occupancy.
Marzena Bednarczyk, Director of Hotel Dana in Szczecin:
We consider the summer season successful. The hotel recorded an increase in occupancy compared to previous years. Summer weekends were very popular – guests were attracted by the city break offer and summer attractions proposed by the city. The hotel was visited by a large group of tourists from Poland, but also from Germany and Scandinavia. The hotel’s restaurant, where we recorded a sales increase for dishes, also enjoyed great popularity.
What amenities in hotels have become most popular recently? Business and individual clients pay special attention to what?
Jerzy Sobczak, General Manager, Hotel Czarny Potok Resort SPA & Conference:
The outdoor pool is most popular in the summer, and in the evenings, a highland hut with music and the possibility of dancing. Our guests also appreciate the possibility of spending time for the youngest, including leaving the kids for a few hours at the Kids Club.
What challenges is the hotel industry currently facing? What will the last quarter of 2023 bring in your opinion?
Jerzy Sobczak, General Manager, Hotel Czarny Potok Resort SPA & Conference:
We are currently mainly dealing with challenges resulting from an unstable economic situation. This is about multidimensional increases in running a business: rising costs of buying goods, electricity or gas. A major problem is also the recruitment of new, qualified employees while at the same time there is increasing financial pressure from the HR department. Despite the difficulties mentioned, we hope that the last quarter will be just as strong as the holiday season.
