Pulse Legacy Archive December 2011 | Page 18

member profile (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14) ment, the resort uses its own Web site to post job openings and help facilitate online applications. Marketing Methods As part of the overall marketing strategy, Bonneville puts a major focus on communicating with past as well as potential customers. Social media outlets like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube are utilized, along with newsletters and e-mail blasts. At least 8,000 people are on their e-mail list and their open rate ratio is high. “Two out of three actually open these e-mail messages,” Mathany says. The traditional avenues of periodicals, local newspapers and radio also FAST FACTS One of the spa’s successful marketing initiatives is its e-mail blast which is sent out to at least 8,000 prospects and clients. “Two out of three actually open these e-mail messages,” Mathany says. prove valuable. Having a presence at the region’s summer activities such as hosting a beer garden event—a nod to its local breweries, one of the region’s most popular products—is another of its marketing strategy. Establishing spa memberships is a marketing tool projected for the future. “We have a lot of things planned for 2012,” Mathany says. “We’re always looking to upgrade our marketing and advertising.” A major investment the spa made recently was implementing the software system ResortSuite, which was created specifically for the hospitality industry. It is used in the management of all aspects of the business, including bookings and menu engineering. The information is useful in increasing profitability by showing individual preferences, allowing the staff to steer the client to additional purchases. Expansion Plans Expansion is never-ending at Bonneville. A separate new day facility is being planned at the current location, catering to clients who don’t stay at the hotel. It will be designed to accommodate families with children, offering more entertainment value. There will also be banquet space for up to 200 guests. The spa recently purchased a nearby sister property, Carson Mineral Hot Springs Resort, that is being renovated and scheduled for opening next year. With this acquisition, Bonneville boasts the only two hot springs resorts in the scenic Columbia River Gorge. ■ ABOUT THE SPA Spa type: Luxury resort Open date: October 2002 Space in square footage: 12,000 Software used: ResortSuite Signature treatment: The Optimizer, an 80-minute facial that uses collagen, elastin, wild rose and hops to create anti-aging results Products Used: Yon-Ka Paris, Kerstin Florian Guest ratio (women to men): 60 percent women; 40 percent men Contact details: Bonneville Hot Springs Resort & Spa 1252 East Cascade Drive North Bonneville, Washington 98369 Phone: 1.509.427.9720 Web site: bonnevilleresort.com 16 PULSE ■ December 2011