8 | Bed & Breakfast News | Summer 2017
The ‘sharing economy’ and regulation
It was interesting to see that this issue, such
a hot topic for the B&B Association here in
the UK, is also clearly understood in China.
The very first question from a delegate
was about how compliance with safety
regulations could be ensured for properties
which might be offered on ‘peer-to-peer’
platforms. It would seem an irony if China
were to show the UK the way on regulatory
standards.
There were other subjects that came up more
than once – sustainability was mentioned in a
number of speeches, for example.
Louise’ presentation (above) on the secrets
of success for a B&B was very well received,
and some of her words were quoted back
by later speakers. Louise said that the key
factors were:
A personal welcome, from friendly
hosts - with local knowledge
Individuality and authenticity –
a ‘real’ home, not a hotel
A freshly-cooked, ‘home made’
breakfast with local produce
(Louise explained the ‘full English
breakfast’ to the Chinese audience)
Cleanliness and comfort is crucial: each
bedroom and bathroom should appear
as if no one else had ever stayed in it
Attention to detail, and focus
on your guests’ needs
The words that resonated most were about
authenticity and welcome, and a B&B being
a home rather than a hotel.
Some of the discussions verged on the
philosophical at times, but what came
through clearly was how seriously
developing a good quality, sustainable
B&B sector in China is being taken –
including by central and local Government
officials as well as B&B companies.