Struggling to get more bookings? Partnering with travel agencies might be the game-changer your B&B needs!

Here, I’ll share practical tips on approaching agencies, creating win-win agreements, and ensuring a steady flow of guests to your B&B.

Running a bed and breakfast is all about creating memorable guest experiences, but there’s a key ingredient many owners overlook—partnerships. If you want to fill those rooms consistently, especially during slow seasons, forming solid partnerships with travel agencies and online platforms is essential. Think of it as expanding your guest list without breaking the bank on advertising.

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So, how do you go about establishing and maintaining these relationships? Let’s dive in!

Start With Local Travel Agencies

Partnering with travel agencies can provide a steady stream of guests. It may seem a little old-fashioned in this digital age, but local agencies have strong ties with travellers looking for authentic experiences. Plus, their clients trust their recommendations.

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Reach out to agencies in your region first. Introduce yourself and your B&B, and offer a tour if possible. Make it clear how your property adds value to their clients. Do you provide a unique culinary experience or offer personalised tours of the area? Highlight those features.

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Once you’ve got their interest, propose a mutually beneficial agreement. This could involve offering them a commission for each booking they secure. It’s a win-win situation; they get rewarded, and you get guests who might not have found you otherwise. Just make sure the terms are clear to avoid any confusion later on.

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Tap Into Online Travel Platforms

If you’re not on online platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, or Expedia yet, you’re missing out. These platforms are the go-to places for millions of travellers, and having your B&B listed there will boost your visibility massively.

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It’s not as daunting as it seems. Start by choosing one or two platforms that align with your values. Each platform has its unique selling points, so it’s worth doing a bit of research. Airbnb, for instance, focuses more on unique, homely stays, which could be perfect for your B&B. Booking.com, on the other hand, has a broader range, attracting everyone from backpackers to business travellers.

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When you set up your listing, be sure to include high-quality photos and detailed descriptions of your rooms, services, and location. Travellers love transparency, so be upfront about your amenities and any potential limitations. Also, keeping your calendar updated is crucial. No one likes to book a room only to find out it’s not available.

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Build a Good Reputation Online

Once you’re up and running on these platforms, the work isn’t over. The key to maintaining these partnerships is your reputation. Reviews matter—a lot. Guests read them before booking, and platforms often give preference to properties with high ratings.

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Always strive to provide top-notch service. From the cleanliness of the rooms to the quality of the breakfast, every detail counts. After each guest’s stay, politely ask them to leave a review. Make this part of your check-out process. It’s a small ask that can go a long way in building your reputation.

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And don’t forget to respond to reviews. Whether it’s a glowing five-star review or a bit of constructive criticism, your reply shows that you care about your guests’ experiences. Responding to negative feedback is particularly important. Address any issues mentioned, and thank them for their honesty. This shows potential guests that you’re proactive and willing to improve.

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Maintain Regular Contact With Your Partners

Once you’ve established these partnerships, don’t just let them run on autopilot. Regular communication is key to maintaining good relationships. For travel agencies, keep them updated with any special offers or seasonal events you’re running. Send them occasional reminders about your availability, particularly during peak seasons.

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When it comes to online platforms, keep your listings up to date. If you’ve recently renovated a room or added a new service, make sure that information is reflected online. These small updates can make a big difference in attracting new guests.

Offer Exclusive Deals

Everyone loves a good deal, especially travellers. Offering exclusive discounts or packages through your travel agency and online platform partners can increase your bookings significantly. You could offer a discount on weekday stays or put together a package that includes breakfast and a local tour. Be creative!

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Travel agencies will appreciate the chance to offer something special to their clients, and online platforms often promote exclusive deals more prominently. Just make sure any deals you offer are still profitable for your B&B. There’s no point filling rooms at a loss.

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Don’t Forget Direct Bookings

While partnerships with travel agencies and online platforms can be game changers, don’t forget about your own website. Make it easy for guests to book directly with you, and incentivise them to do so. Offer a small discount or an extra perk, like a complimentary bottle of wine or free parking, for direct bookings.

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Why? Because direct bookings are commission-free! You get to keep more of your profits, and the guest gets a little something extra. It’s a win-win. Just be careful not to violate any agreements with your online partners. Some platforms have strict rules about undercutting their prices on your own site.

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Keeping Up With Industry Trends

The travel industry changes quickly, especially with technology constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest trends in online travel platforms and travel agency partnerships. Whether it’s new features on Airbnb or changes in traveller preferences, being proactive will give you an edge. Consider joining local B&B or hospitality associations, where you can exchange ideas and stay in the loop about industry shifts.

Overwhelmed by the complex strategies and numbers game of running your B&B? Let us simplify it for you with our free ‘Crafting the Perfect Stay – 25 Essential Insights for Bed and Breakfast Owners’ PDF. It’s as rejuvenating as your morning espresso, chock-full of valuable insights. Snag your copy now and start crafting stays that turn guests into advocates!

Have you started working with travel agencies or online platforms yet?

Let us know in the comments how it’s working out for your B&B!

In Conclusion

Establishing and maintaining partnerships with travel agencies and online platforms might seem like a lot of work, but the payoff can be huge. With a bit of effort, you can enjoy a steady stream of guests, even during slow periods. By providing excellent service, keeping your listings updated, and offering exclusive deals, you can make the most of these relationships.

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Remember, consistency is key. Don’t let your partnerships gather dust once they’re set up. Keep nurturing them, and they’ll continue to reward you.

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In the next episode, I will be chatting with Mark Ross Smith, CEO and co-founder of Loyalty Data.