Luxury Hoteliers Magazine 1st Quarter 2019 | Page 34

By focusing on a quality robe, you will improve guest retention, enhance trust in your brand and increase return on investment. Let’s take a deeper dive into how the anticipated savings of purchasing a less expensive robe is an illusion. Product quality is an intrinsic differentiator, which should affect purchasing decisions, along with the true cost of the life of the product. It is often said that the bitter taste of poor-quality lasts much longer than the sweet taste of a lower purchased cost. The damage to your brand, especially in the new reality of social media is uncalculatable. The enormous reach and speed of social media are a force to be managed very closely. WHAT ARE THE PRIMARY BENEFITS A PROPERTY CAN ANTICIPATE BY BUYING QUALITY? 1. You can expect to build trust with your guests. Your brand is your promise and your promise must be aligned with your message. Purchasing robes that keep your promise of quality and luxury strengthen your brand message. It becomes a question of trust, which you cannot afford to lose over short-term savings. Building loyalty and trust allows you to charge higher rates since the experience is commensurate with your guest’s expectations. 2. It Increases positive word of mouth and social media recommendations. 92% of people trust recommendations from friends and family above all other forms of advertising. It is the ultimate influencer and the cost is free. Increase positive reviews, recommendations, and shares by offering a quality robe your guests will truly enjoy. 3. Customer complaints will be dramatically reduced. Studies confirm that ordering from brands that are known for their quality and service greatly reduce guest complaints. In addition, when your guest’s initial experience is exceptional, the probability of repeat stays, and enhanced brand loyalty is increased. A quality robe is an inexpensive investment toward your objective of ensuring a guest stay always exceeds their expectations. 4. Aesthetics matter to your guests. How the robe looks when hung, feels when worn and fits are critical components of the robes overall quality. Quality robe specifications will be more generous, and the fabrics will be heavier and more durable. That higher quality will be apparent to the guest, at their first touch of the robe. 34 ILHA 5. Purchasing quality robes will result in higher (ROI). The true cost of a garment cannot be calculated only by the initial cost. The life of the garment is the true test of actual operational costs. Robes manufactured from quality fabrics can be expected to remain in service longer than a less expensive, lighter fabric. For additional benefits, purchase a polyester microfiber robe. It will reduce wrinkling, which improves the look of the robe in the room or spa. In addition, you will lower your laundering costs, due to faster drying times and lower washing temperatures. Those laundering benefits will also contribute to your sustainability efforts. In conclusion, purchasing quality robes has numerous benefits. The trust, credibility, and loyalty that are commensurate with happy guests ultimately result in repeat stays and positive recommendations. The operational cost savings is an added benefit. The decision appears to be clear, purchasing quality robes should be a priority within any properties overall business strategy. About the author Mark DeLucca….President, Chadsworth and Haig 40 years’ experience in apparel product development, supply chain management, and sales & marketing. At Starter Sportswear, a licensed pro team manufacturer, I worked as an activewear product manager and then headwear division manager. At Adams Fashion Headwear, I was the COO and then CEO for 10 years. As President of Chadsworth and Haig, I am focused on continually learning more about the continuing evolution of the hospitality business and how our team and product line can add value for the properties we are fortunate enough to service.