Amidst increasingly fierce competition in the hotel industry, many hotels feel they have implemented various hotel marketing strategies, yet their revenue remains stagnant. What is often overlooked is that competitors aren't just playing with advertising or promotions; they're also playing a smart game in revenue management.
ecommerceloka will discuss the revenue management secrets often used by competing hotels, and how a data-driven hotel ecommerce approach like the one implemented by ecommerceloka can be a game-changer for increasing direct bookings and profits.
What Is Hotel Revenue Management (and Why Many Hotels Get It Wrong)
Hotel revenue management isn't simply about raising or lowering room rates. It's a comprehensive strategy that combines:
- Demand analysis
- Guest behavior
- Distribution channels
- Sales timing
- Flexible pricing strategies
Unfortunately, many hotels still apply static prices year-round. Meanwhile, competitors adjust their prices based on data and market momentum.
Secret #1: Competitors Don't Rely on OTAs
OTAs do help with exposure, but smart hotels don't rely solely on OTAs for revenue. Competitors leverage:
- Hotel websites optimized for conversion
- Exclusive direct booking promotions
- Hotel ecommerce strategies to control margins
This is where ecommerce becomes crucial—helping hotels build a direct sales ecosystem without relying entirely on third parties.
Secret #2: Room Prices Are Always Dynamic (Not Just Dropped)
Competitor hotels rarely offer arbitrary discounts. They use:
- Dynamic pricing based on occupancy
- Price adjustments during high demand
- Different rates for weekdays and weekends
This approach maintains optimal revenue even when occupancy isn't always full.
Secret #3: They Know When to Price High
Many hotels are afraid to raise prices for fear of not selling rooms. However, competitors are actually bold enough to raise prices during:
- Local or international events
- Peak season
- Long weekends
With the right revenue management strategy, high prices actually increase the perceived value of the hotel.
Secret #4: Hotel Websites Are Positioned Like Online Stores
Competitor hotels don't treat their websites simply as company profiles. Their website functions like a hotel ecommerce platform, with:
- Fast booking engine
- Mobile-friendly UX
- Bundling promotions (room + breakfast + experience)
This concept aligns with ecommerceloka's approach, which focuses on conversion optimization, not just traffic.
Secret #5: Data is More Important Than Instinct
Competitors don't guess at the market. They read the data:
- Website conversion rate
- Channels with the Highest ROI
- Guest behavior before booking
This data is the basis for revenue decisions, not just gut feelings or old habits.
Revenue Management & Hotel Marketing Strategy Must Go Hand in Hand
A common mistake hotels make is separating revenue management and marketing. However, the two should be mutually reinforcing:
- Marketing generates demand
- Revenue management optimizes the value of that demand
Without a solid hotel ecommerce strategy, marketing will only increase traffic without increasing profits. How ecommerceloka helps hotels beat the competition. ecommerceloka helps hotels build a healthier sales system through:
- Optimizing direct bookings
- Data-driven hotel ecommerce strategies
- Synchronizing revenue management and digital marketing
The result isn't just increased occupancy, but more optimal and sustainable revenue. If your hotel still relies on OTAs, static pricing, and outdated strategies, your competitors are likely one step ahead. Their secret isn't massive promotions, but smart revenue management and the right hotel ecommerce strategy. It's time to stop the price war and start building a more strategic hotel sales system with ecommerceloka.