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Some 26% of operators in the hotel and bed and breakfast sector are still unable to take online bookings, according to new research from MHA, a chartered accountants and business advisory firm.
However, the firm’s latest Travel & Tourism Survey found that 50% of respondents reported a year-on-year increase in online bookings, and that there has been a 16% increase in the ability to take direct online bookings.
Andrew Burnham, head of MHA’s travel and hospitality division, said: “This growth in direct transactions is good to see, especially as online booking agents have been increasingly dominating the UK hotel and bed and breakfast sector. This trend should lead to a greater online presence and more competitive offerings.”
MHA said that the survey results points towards growing business confidence and are encouraging for the industry’s development. Some 64% of respondents reported an increase in profits over the past 12 months, while 59% said they expect to see an increase over the next 12 months.
One third (33%) of respondents to the survey employ workers on zero-hour contracts, slightly lower than the 37% recorded last year. However, the amount of zero-hour contract staff who are working 21 hours or more has halved since last year to 34%.
Burnham said: “These findings are concerning and suggest that hospitality workers on zero hours contracts are suffering through reduced paid hours.”
The survey also found that the number of companies who have green policies has dropped to 65%, down from 82% last year, while 41% remain unaware that tax reliefs are available for the introduction of such policies.
