Tess Delve, Paula Hawes and Priti Unadkat-Patel from Ascott Ltd discuss what is driving the serviced apartment sector, Christmas bookings and their new mobile website.
What do you think is driving the growth of the serviced apartment sector at the moment?
Price, value and service. We meet the needs of our guests which is being recognised and leading to repeat business.
How are your bookings for the Christmas period?
Trafalgar and Holborn, near Oxford Street, are busy with leisure guests especially leading up to Christmas. Barbican and St Marks attract corporate clients and are often quieter over Christmas with approximately 50% occupancy. Things usually slow over Christmas however this year we have been buoyant due to the 2012 Olympics and the Royal Wedding bringing tourism to London.
Ascott’s brand Citadines offer a new mobile version of their website, how do you think this will benefit customers and the modern business traveller?
The mobile version of our website will make booking easier for our clients. We wouldn’t expect long stays to make the booking through the mobile website but perhaps use it more to browse. Clients looking for a last minute two night stay may use the mobile version to check availability and promotions. It was an important move for us because even those who aren’t techy have a smartphone and access information this way.
Quick Fire:
White or Red wine?
Tess: White
Paula: Red
Priti: White
Saturday night X-Factor or Saturday night out?
Tess: Out
Paula: I go out in the week because I’m close to the Westend at work. Saturday night in but with Strictly Come Dancing, not X Factor.
Priti: Out
Robbie Williams or Olly Murs?
Tess: Robbie
Paula: Ollie
Priti: Ollie, he’s a cheeky chappy
Halloween party or Christmas do?
Tess: Halloween party
Paula: Christmas
Priti: Halloween has more character
