Hotel groups were able to see this for themselves: small and medium-sized businesses accounted for a large proportion of business overnight stays during and after the pandemic. Unlike large accounts, they were quick to get back on the road. This is why it is so important for hoteliers to looking after these customers. In November 2020, Marriott seized this opportunity with its Marriott Bonvoy Business Ready designed to make travelling easier for SMEs. At the beginning of 2022, Accor also took an interest in this target group with the launch of its Accor Business Offer Auto-Enrol.
Hilton also intends to forge strong new relationships with these countries. "million small and medium-sized enterprises that form the backbone of the global economy and make up around half of the world's population. 85 % individual professional customers at Hilton" notes the American group. To this end, Hilton will be launching two global initiatives early next year, starting with the Hilton for Business programme. The American group promises that SMEs will be able to register quickly and easily online, without complicated forms or processes.
Among other benefits, the programme will give them access to reduced rate in all 7,000 properties for bookings made via the Hilton website or app. While Hilton Honors members will continue to earn points for their stays, corporate members will also be able to earn bonus points when they join the program and reach certain milestones.
Above all, Hilton for Business offers SMEs the opportunity to manage their travel programme with different tools and resources available. In addition, each account can be configured to apply authorisations to a designated team, for greater control.
Alongside this dedicated travel programme, the American group is also interested in the SME meetings and seminars through Small Meetings and Events packages. To enable them to plan small events quickly without having to turn to an external player, the Events.Hilton.com website offers them the chance to buy packages without having to make a phone call or draw up a separate contract. And this for events of up to 35 participants, with or without a residential component in addition to room reservations.
