Best Western to save UK businesses over £100m a year
Great Britain’s largest group of independently owned hotels will offer free internet access to all customers staying at one of the 275 hotels throughout England, Scotland, and Wales.
For the 14.7 million people who travel for business* in the UK each year this will result in a saving on average of £7.50 per person per day. This equates to more than £110 million in total for businesses throughout the UK.
90% of those surveyed spent up to two hours on the internet per day and 76% of people interviewed by Best Western said they thought the internet was overpriced. One in three has spent between £6 and £15 per day for internet access.
Tim Wade, head of marketing for Best Western said: "Offering free wifi access will help all our guests from families with children who want to chat to their friends to business travellers who need to access emails. As all our hotels are independently owned, we know how important it is for businesses to save money wherever possible. This small saving for each traveller adds up to a massive saving for the economy to help people through this tough year."
Tim Sander, from BDRC, who has also conducted research into hotel services added: “There has been an increase in demand for free internet services every year since 2006. During the current economic climate, businesses will be looking to save money wherever possible and so hotels that don’t charge for this essential service are likely to have a competitive advantage.”
BDRC found that 46% of business travellers use the internet in their bedrooms, but this will also benefit those who book one of the 1200 meeting rooms in the Best Western group, offering more choice for businesses. There is an experienced team at head office to handle the meeting enquiry, plan every aspect of the event and book the facilities and then a dedicated member of staff at each hotel to ensure the event runs smoothly and delivers to exacting standards.
Best Western Venues guarantees a high standard of facilities, as well as service, across the whole group so the charm of an independent hotel is coupled with the knowledge of quality on arrival.
These facilities include: high speed internet access in all meeting rooms, free use of an LCD projector, unlimited flip charts, unlimited tea, coffee and water plus unlimited fruit to help delegates get their five a day!
* source - Mintel March 2009 Travel Forecasts
For more information, to book a stay or a meeting room at a hotel contact Best Western Central Reservations on 0845 3300 120.
Best Western
Best Western UK has over 270 UK hotels to choose from, each hotel independently owned and each with its own charm and character. To find out more visit www.bestwestern.co.uk
