A new survey conducted amongst members of the UK Short Term Accommodation Association revealed that all of them will carry on with the enhanced cleaning protocols. Three-quarters are going to retain mask wearing for staff and over half will continue with online check-ins and providing free hand sanitiser.
The survey also found that just under a half will still use digital welcome books and a third will maintain social distancing measures. Members also reported that they had seen a change in guest behaviours with a third saying that many of their guests are now not observing the previous COVID-secure protocol. A fifth said that a few are now not observing the protocols.
However, a third said that the vast majority of their guests are still observing the protocols Members were also asked to suggest the most important thing that the Government should do to help their business.
The top three suggestions were:
1: Introduce a voucher scheme, like the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, for the off-peak season to encourage people to go away in the UK
2: Reduce restrictions on incoming international travel to make it easier
3: Provide a greater degree of certainty and clarity that there will be no further changes to restrictions for the foreseeable future
Merilee Karr, Chair of the STAA and CEO of UnderTheDoormat, commented: “Having implemented new standards across the industry there was a sense that many of the procedures and protocols that have been put in place would remain even once we are free from restrictions. It’s encouraging to see what our members have chosen to continue with and shows that they are taking a cautious and responsible approach whilst we learn to live with COVID-19 while balancing procedures with high-quality guest experiences for customers.
“People should feel very reassured about the adoption of the industry-wide enhanced cleaning protocols which will be of benefit in the future and is a really good example of the professionalism across the short term rental sector. With the end of restrictions, we can now look forward to a return to growth where guests preferences for self-contained properties for holidays and business travel can be met with a wide choice of high standard accommodation.”
