Our Ireland

If you offer family run accommodation services in Ireland you don’t need to be told that 2009 was a tough year for the industry. But do you know just how tough it was?

According to figures released by Tourism Ireland there was a 12% drop in visitors to Ireland during 2009. That amounts to a staggering 600,000 less visitors travelling to Ireland this year compared to the same period in 2008. (See: http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1203/tourism.html)

Tourism Ireland’s Chief Executive Niall Gibbons has committed the organisation to an aggressive marketing strategy to boost next year’s visitor numbers by a target 3%. While this is welcomed from the accommodation sector there is still a short fall 9% on 2008 figures, if that goal is achieved. Add to this a massive over supply of hotel rooms being offered at lowest possible rates.

What does this mean for the small family run business in the Irish accommodation sector?

It means that 2010 will be another tough year. And when income levels drop it is tempting to cut out advertising and promotional budgets to make up the short fall. While this will provide short-term savings the long-term effect could be devastating to your accommodation business.

What You Should Do – Focus On Your Marketing And Advertising For 2010

Now more than ever accommodation providers need to focus on their advertising and marketing plans. Look for ways to be more competitive, offer more value for money and ensure you can be found when customers are looking for accommodation in your area.

Spend Your Advertising Budget Wisely

The most cost effect method of advertising is online. Many accommodation businesses use web portal services that take a commission per sale. Most Irish B&B’s have their own website and those who are most successful online ensure to take advantage of other low-cost online advertising opportunities.

The Key To Your B&B Being Found Online

The key to your B&B being found online is to ensure you have more web pages promoting your business and more links to those web pages than your competition. Use free listings (sites such as http://bbkerry.our-ireland.com (Kerry accommodation only) and http://browseireland.com) and set-up membership pages/websites within accommodation networks.

Now Is The Time To Act

The more of the web you ‘own’ the more competitive you become online. Take action now, create a marketing plan, register with http://bbkerry.our-ireland.com, and look for ways to add more value.

If you do not yet have a website for your accommodation business contact Starter Websites for stunning and affordable website design. You will also receive free advice on how to effectively promote your website online.

While it is encouraging to hear Tourism Ireland are taking action to improve visitor numbers to Ireland, it is important that YOU take action yourself to ensure you profit for 2010.

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Author: Peter McCormack
Internet Marketing & SEO Specialist, Starter Websites

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