Advertising Agencies for Hospitality and Lodging

Let advertising agencies work their magic on advertising for hotels
By KB Gibson, Freelance Writer No one knows the hospitality and lodging industry like you, particularly the specifics of your own business. You know the benefits that keep customers coming back. However, wouldn’t it be nice to see some growth in your client base? Take your knowledge, and combine it with an advertising agency that knows what works in advertising, and you have a winning combination.

The lodging industry demands advertising and marketing campaigns to remain competitive. Furthermore, an effective advertising campaign helps set the proper image for your establishment. With the right hospitality advertising agency, you can reach many business goals. Investing in lodging advertising is like making a guaranteed reservation for higher year-round occupancy rates, a wider customer base and greater name recognition.

Reach your target market more effectively when you use a hospitality marketing agency for:

1. Hotel advertising
2. Motel advertising
3. Bed and breakfast advertising

Look to the experienced advertising professionals

Experience counts in hospitality advertising. Search for advertising agencies who have demonstrated knowledge and a track record of success with hospitality ads. They can help you identify and reach your target market through the best advertising channels.
Try:  Each year, the Adrian Awards recognize the best in advertising for the hospitality industry and other industries. You want an agency that is a member of the American Association of Advertising Agencies.

Examine hospitality advertisement trends

Knowing your business and target market will alert you to trends. When appropriate, you can use these trends in your marketing plan.
Try:  Join the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) to learn hotel advertising trends. A current trend that seems to be growing is providing “green” or environmentally friendly lodging. If you’re a “Green” hotel, flaunt it in your hospitality ads.

Hire a full-service advertising agency

If you already have a full schedule, you might want to look at a full-service agency to handle all of your marketing needs. Imagine an agency that could also handle your public relations, manage special events for your business and place the hospitality advertisements.
Try:  More companies like Ad Cetera, Inc. are coordinating a wide range of services for their clients. Any agency should show your a portfolio of work. Some agencies like Avenue 25 show their work on a website.  

• Develop a hospitality advertising budget as part of your annual business plan.
• If you don't need full service from hospitality advertising agencies, then don't pay for it. Some agencies specialize in narrower pieces of hospitality marketing, such as event or Internet marketing. Choose a single service if it's all you need.
• Consider hiring a national advertising agency for national coverage.