Ratschläge für die Planung von Firmenveranstaltungen

Firmenveranstaltungen stehen wieder vermehrt im Fokus. Zum Quartalsabschluss oder vor Sommer- und Weihnachtsfeiern werden gerne alle Kollegen zusammen geholt, um ihnen Wertschätzung entgegen zu bringen und sich auf die gemeinsame Zukunft einzuschwören. Mitunter müssen aber auch unangenehme Maßnahmen verkündet werden, welche ein großes Maß an Taktgefühl voraussetzen. So verlangt jede Veranstaltung einen zum Anlass passenden Rahmen.   Für eine sorgfältige Planung mit viel Liebe zum Detail und eine effektive Durchführung steht Ihnen unser Roomex Projects & Meeting Team mit Rat und Tat zur Seite. Um Ihr nächstes Firmenevent zum Erfolg zu führen, haben unsere Experten Ihnen die folgenden Tipps zusammengestellt: Festlegung des Zwecks und der Ziele Definieren Sie zunächst klar den Zweck der Veranstaltung und legen Sie konkrete Ziele fest. Soll die Moral des Teams gestärkt, Erfolge gefeiert, Networking gefördert oder ein neues Produkt präsentiert werden? Oder müssen Informationen zu Umstrukturierungen mitgeteilt und der Belegschaft im Vorfeld Ängste genommen werden? Die Durchführung eines Firmenevents spiegelt immer eine Wertschätzung der Kollegen wider. Der richtige Rahmen ist jedoch entscheidend, um die korrekte Botschaft zu senden. Werden beispielsweise Sanierungsmaßnahmen verkündet, die Einschränkungen für gewisse Bereiche bedeuten, sollte eher das kleine Programm aufgefahren werden. Somit leitet ein klarer Zweck den Planungsprozess und hilft dabei, das richtige Maß zu finden. Erstellen eines Budgets Erstellen Sie ein realistisches Budget, welches alle Kostenfaktoren der Veranstaltung abdeckt, um unnötige Mehrausgaben zu vermeiden. Dazu gehören die Miete des Veranstaltungsorts, das Catering und weitere relevante Ausgaben. Gegebenenfalls wünschen Sie sich ein Unterhaltungsprogramm, welches die Leihe spezieller Veranstaltungstechnik erfordert. Nach der Veranstaltung stellt unser Team eine konsolidierte Rechnung aus, in der alle Ausgaben aufgeschlüsselt sind. Damit haben Sie für zukünftige Veranstaltungen eine Blaupause an der Hand und bleiben somit stets im veranschlagten Kostenrahmen. Auswahl des richtigen Veranstaltungsortes Eine zum Veranstaltungszweck passende Location ist ein wichtiger Aspekt für den Erfolg des Events. Mit diesem Teil des Planungsprozesses haben Unternehmen in der Regel am meisten zu kämpfen. Die Verfügbarkeit geeigneter Räumlichkeiten mit einer guten Infrastruktur hat durch die Pandemie weiter abgenommen. Das Roomex Projects & Meetings Team kann jedoch für Sie die Suche, die Verhandlungen und die Buchung von Veranstaltungsort-Paketen übernehmen. Diese sind natürlich auf Ihre Bedürfnisse zugeschnitten, denn unser Expertenteam hat Zugang zu einer Vielzahl von Veranstaltungsorten und wird den besten verfügbaren Preis aushandeln. Vorausplanung Beginnen Sie rechtzeitig mit der Planung, um genügend Zeit für die Koordination und die Lösung von eventuell auftretenden Problemen zu haben. Zudem wird bei fortschreitender Zeit die Auswahl an passenden Locations nicht gerade größer. Unser erfahrenes Team unterstützt Sie gerne bei der Suche nach dem idealen Caterer und hilft Ihnen bei allen Aspekten der Logistik. Follow-up Holen Sie nach der Veranstaltung das Feedback der Teilnehmer ein. Diese Informationen können für die Verbesserung zukünftiger Veranstaltungen wertvoll sein. Nutzen Sie Umfragen oder informelle Gespräche, um herauszufinden, was gut gelaufen ist und wo in Zukunft nachgebessert werden muss. Versenden Sie eine E-Mail, in der Sie allen Beteiligten für ihre Teilnahme danken. Je nach Veranstaltung kann diese Geste den positiven Effekt des Events verstärken oder als Blitzableiter dienen, falls doch etwas schiefgegangen ist oder der Anlass dafür gedacht war, unangenehme Botschaften zu überbringen.

Managing Rail Fatigue | Roomex

This is a summary of our eBook – ‘Battling Fatigue in the Rail Industry’. To read this eBook in it’s entirety click here.   Fatigue poses a significant safety risk within the rail industry, with consequences ranging from accidents to injuries and errors. This critical issue has resulted in an annual average of 36 worker fatalities and a staggering cost of £240 million to the industry since 2017. In addition to this, a shocking 54% of rail staff admit feeling overburdened, with 37% working over 50 hours per week. Alarmingly, 73% consider fatigue as a hazard that goes unnoticed. These statistics underscore the pressing need for both employers and employees in the rail sector to address this concern. This eBook provides insights into fatigue, its causes, consequences, and strategies for prevention, as well as an overview of updated UK fatigue legislation and a case study demonstrating what successful rail fatigue management looks like. It aims to equip workers with a better understanding of rail fatigue, aiding employers and employees in creating a safer and fatigue-free workplace. Key Takeaways Fatigue involves reduced alertness and decreased task performance. Various factors contribute to fatigue, such as physical exertion, sleep deprivation, and irregular shift work. Fatigue can have a profound impact on rail workers’ safety, productivity, and well-being. Strategies for fatigue prevention include adequate rest, proper nutrition, and smart shift scheduling. Third-party tools like Roomex and Weston Analytics’ Fatigue360 provide rail fatigue software which can simplify fatigue management for employers. Causes of Fatigue in Rail Workers Rail fatigue doesn’t result solely from long hours and sleep deprivation. Several underlying factors can trigger this condition, making it imperative to recognise and comprehend these factors for everyone in the workplace. Common causes of fatigue in rail workers include: Physical Exertion: The physically demanding tasks such as lifting heavy objects, climbing, and confined space work can lead to fatigue over time. Sleep Deprivation: Prolonged working hours often lead to sleep deprivation, hindering alertness and decision-making abilities. Shift Work: Irregular shifts disrupt sleep patterns and lifestyle, impacting physical and mental well-being. Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to fatigue by impeding relaxation and sleep. Medical Conditions: Conditions like sleep apnea and chronic fatigue syndrome can also cause fatigue and require medical intervention. It’s essential to recognise that fatigue is cumulative. The more fatigued an individual is, the more susceptible they become to further fatigue. Understanding these factors empowers rail workers to better manage fatigue. Consequences of Fatigue in Rail Workers Rail fatigue carries severe repercussions for workers, including: Increased Accident Risk: Fatigue impairs cognitive functions, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Reduced Productivity: Difficulty in concentrating and focusing leads to decreased productivity. Increased Errors: Fatigue raises the likelihood of mistakes, which is critical in safety-sensitive rail work. Increased Absenteeism: Fatigue makes it challenging for employees to attend work regularly. Decreased Well-being: Fatigue contributes to physical and mental issues like headaches, irritability, and depression. Increased Costs: Reduced productivity, accidents, errors, and absenteeism result in higher project costs. Employer Responsibilities Employers have an essential role in rail fatigue management within their workforce. They should: Educate employees about fatigue risks and prevention through training. Establish rail fatigue management policies addressing issues like shift scheduling and rest breaks. Monitor employee fatigue levels regularly through self-assessment or supervisor observation. Take prompt action to address employee rail fatigue, such as providing extra rest breaks or modifying shift schedules. Preventing Fatigue in Rail Workers Preventing fatigue is paramount in the rail industry to ensure the safety of workers, passengers, and the public. Strategies for preventing rail fatigue include: Prioritising adequate sleep, aiming for 7-8 hours per night. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends. Creating a calming bedtime routine while avoiding electronic devices before sleep. Refraining from caffeine and alcohol before bedtime. Ensuring regular meals and snacks for stable blood sugar levels. Incorporating regular exercise into daily routines. Effectively managing stress through healthy coping mechanisms. If employees experience fatigue regularly, they should consult their manager and consider seeking medical advice for underlying causes. New UK Legislation and a Successful Implementation Network Rail’s updated Fatigue Risk Management Standard (NR/L2/OHS/003), introduced in October 2022, underscores the significance of fatigue management in the rail industry. Employers must proactively monitor rail fatigue levels and implement a compliant rail fatigue management plan. The plan should be straightforward, incorporating recommended guidelines while allowing flexibility for company-specific needs, such as commute time. A UK-based rail construction company successfully adapted to the updated Network Rail fatigue standard with the help of Roomex and Weston Analytics. They needed a solution that streamlined fatigue management and accommodation booking. The partnership enabled Roomex, with over 100,000 workforce-ready properties, and Fatigue360, to facilitate a compliant rail fatigue management plan with access to the widest workforce-ready accommodation network available. Before adopting these tools, this UK-based rail construction company struggled with manual processes involving roster creation and accommodation booking. This resulted in duplicated data and unnecessary time consumption. Roomex and Fatigue360 streamlined these operations, significantly reducing time spent on the process. The integration of these tools simplified data management and empowered employees to allocate more time to critical tasks. Conclusion Fatigue is a critical safety concern in the rail industry, but it doesn’t have to be a daunting challenge. Understanding the key factors contributing to rail fatigue and the strategies for its prevention is crucial for rail workers, employers, and the entire industry. With updated UK legislation, employers must adopt best-in-class rail fatigue management plans, and various tools are available to make the process more manageable. By following these insights, rail organisations can enhance safety, increase efficiency, and save both time and money while addressing the pressing issue of fatigue in the industry.   This is a summary of our eBook – ‘Battling Fatigue in the Rail Industry’. To read this eBook in it’s entirety click here.  

Roomex Hotel Forward Pricing Report | Q4 2023

The UK economy remains in an uncertain place. Whilst the continuous interest rate increases of the last year may have slowed, there doesn’t seem to be a clear consensus that the road ahead will be smoother. Higher for longer may be a common view, but that doesn’t exactly bode well for procurement and cost control. Business travel costs and specifically hotel rates continue to be hard to read, the indicators we do have might provide some short term respite, but not much. Either way, these insights will help you form your hotel pricing strategy for the coming quarter.   Introduction ADR (Average Daily Rate) in Q3 has been more robust than expected. In recent years, the summer period has provided an exceptional high in hotel rates which has quite quickly dissipated into the autumn period. 2023 has performed a little differently. The price tailwind has been powerful but coming from a different source – inflationary pressures rather than COVID buying behaviour. This seems to have produced a different trend as we transition from summer into autumn. Total demand levels – room nights sold in the UK hotel market – jumped at the start of September as would be expected. However, they increased more strongly than 2022. This has lead to more robust ADR. Recent weeks though have shown a weakening in growth. Is this a glimmer of hope for travel buyers? Forward Pricing The rolling market ADR graph shows strong increases in September. Whilst hotels continue to face inflationary pressures on input costs – labour being at the top of the list – there has to be sufficient demand in the market to support ADR. This was initially the case in September. However, the graph shows signs of decline. Detailed comparisons with 2022 are not easy with 2022 impacted by the Queen’s death, but in 2023 there has been several weeks of consistent demand decline from a week 37 peak of 3.0M room nights sold to 2.8M in week 40. With school half term looming this is likely to continue. For context, autumn 2022 UK hotel demand peaked in week 41 – mid-October – after which demand and prices eased back. ADR declined – 16% from the 2022 high point in July down to the average November rate. So far 2023 is -8.2% off the July peak, so there is likely to be more to come. Roomex’s hotel rate strategy brings discounts to business buyers, but it also serves to smooth out ADR peaks. The combination of Roomex Fixed Rates and Client Rates cuts off the peaks of market ADR. Forward price data seems to support further hotel price declines, but they don’t look to be steep. Across all location types, 2, 4, and 8 week forward prices show relatively small but consistent decline. The 12 week forward indicators also suggest price declines, which speaks mostly to a downbeat mood amongst hotel revenue managers with regard to seasonal leisure in December. Gateway cities see sharpest ADR decline. Secondary locations (Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow etc.) perform strongest compared to gateway cities and regional towns, giving away little through to the end of November. Interestingly in these secondary locations, out of town destinations perform better than inner city in terms of actual ADR and ADR change through the autumn – they stay higher for longer. Many Roomex clients have a broad footprint in terms of destinations visited as a result of project work. Regional towns show weaker performance in outer locations. As always there are outliers in the data. Cardiff looks particularly strong in the autumn period, with rates likely being driven by events. Hotel brands are also applying their own revenue management strategies and addressing the market as they see fit. This in itself provides saving opportunities for buyers. Summary The forward data suggests hotel prices are holding up and the declines into the winter will not be sharper than 2022. Cost increases for hotels that previously had been around energy are now entrenched and labour costs continue to impact. There is currently considerable price variance between similar starred hotels in similar locations. It’s easy to think that there are enough hotels in any particular destination to smooth out but it’s not the case. Different market positioning and brand power creates highs and lows. Being able to see through the noise and find those savings potentials is something we would strongly encourage buyers to be paying attention to in the weeks ahead and contemplate as part of their hotel pricing strategy.

Driving the Future: A Guide to Hotels with EV Charging Facilities

  Table of Contents 1.  Why EV Charging Facilities Matter in Hotels 2. What to Look for in Hotels with EV Charging 3. Roomex: Simplifying Your Search for Hotels with EV Charging 4. Conclusion   With the rise in electric vehicles (EVs), the demand for compatible infrastructure, especially in hotels, is growing. With years of expertise in the travel management industry, Roomex is here to guide you through this shift, helping you make informed decisions for your sustainable travel plans.      Why EV Charging Facilities Matter in Hotels In today’s rapidly evolving world, the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is more than a trend—it’s a transformative movement. As people increasingly adopt EVs for their benefits, such as environmental friendliness, the demand for corresponding infrastructure, especially during travel, has risen significantly. More and more travellers are searching for “hotels with EV charging” or “hotels with electric car charging” when planning their trips.  This need is not exclusively about aligning with eco-conscious values; it’s also about ensuring maximum convenience and efficiency during travel. Think about the ease of pulling into your hotel after a day on the road and simply plugging in your vehicle to recharge overnight. This scenario eliminates the need to find a standalone charging station, saving valuable time and energy. Plus, it future-proofs your journeys, providing you with the confidence that as your commitment to electric vehicles grows, your travel habits can comfortably grow with it.  Moreover, this convenience goes beyond just “hotel EV charging”; it extends to the type of charging available. With terms like “hotel with EV charger” and “hotel with electric car charging UK” gaining popularity, it’s evident that travellers are looking for specific facilities. Fast charging options, for instance, are a boon for those with tight schedules, ensuring a swift power-up and minimal downtime.  The peace of mind provided by these amenities cannot be overstated. Knowing that your hotel has an EV charging station can significantly enhance your travel experience. It provides reassurance that your electric vehicle’s needs can be met, allowing you to focus on the primary purpose of your trip, be it business or leisure.  Thus, as the world embraces the electric vehicle revolution, the importance of EV charging facilities in hotels becomes increasingly paramount. It’s an element of modern travel that’s here to stay, making it a key factor in hotel selection and overall travel planning.      What to Look for in Hotels with EV Charging  Here are some factors to consider when selecting a hotel with EV charging facilities:  Charging Speed: It’s crucial that the hotel provides a fast-charging option. This feature can be a game-changer, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or have a heavy-driving day ahead. A fast-charging station can significantly reduce the charging time, allowing you to make the most of your stay. Additionally, it ensures that your vehicle is ready to go when you are, aiding in efficient time management during your trip. Accessibility: The charging station should not only be conveniently located, but also easy to use. Ideally, it should be close to the hotel entrance or your room, minimising the need for unnecessary walking or waiting. Moreover, the charging process should be straightforward, even for those who are new to electric vehicles. User-friendly interfaces and clear instructions can make a significant difference in the overall experience.  Cost: The cost of EV charging can vary greatly from one hotel to another. Some hotels include the cost in their room rates, providing an all-inclusive experience. Others may charge separately for this service, which can influence your travel budget. Be sure to inquire about this beforehand to avoid any unexpected expenses. Checking whether the cost is competitive compared to nearby standalone charging stations can also be beneficial.  Availability: It’s essential to consider the number of charging stations or points a hotel has. If a hotel has limited charging facilities, you might end up waiting or competing for a spot with other guests. A hotel with multiple charging stations or a robust system to manage their use can significantly enhance your experience and ensure that you can access the service when you need it. Compatibility: Not all EV charging stations are compatible with all types of electric vehicles. Make sure to check that the hotel’s charging facilities are compatible with your specific EV model. You can usually find this information on the hotel’s website or by contacting them directly. This ensures that you won’t encounter any surprises upon arrival and can recharge your vehicle without any issues.      Roomex: Simplifying Your Search for Hotels with EV Charging  Roomex is dedicated to making your travel arrangements as seamless as possible. Our platform allows you to filter and compare hotels based on their EV charging facilities, among other amenities. With Roomex, finding the perfect hotel that caters to your EV needs is just a few clicks away.   Our goal is to help you save time and energy so that you can focus on what you do best – your work. We handle the nitty-gritty details of your accommodation, including parking, to ensure you have a comfortable and worry-free stay.  Why You Should Book a Demo with Roomex Today  We invite you to book a demo with Roomex to discover how we can simplify and streamline your workforce travel arrangements. We offer:  Ease of Booking: Find and book the perfect hotel with parking in just a few clicks.  Savings: By negotiating corporate rates, we can help your company save on travel expenses.  Priority Support: Our customer support team is always ready to assist you with any queries or issues.  In a nutshell, Roomex goes beyond just booking hotels. We’re here to ensure that your workforce travel is efficient, cost-effective, and comfortable.      Over to you  Choosing a hotel with an EV charging station is a small step towards a sustainable future. We, at Roomex, are committed to helping you find such hotels, making your travel smoother and more efficient.  So why wait? Book a demo with Roomex..

Are you making these mistakes when booking business Projects & Meetings?

Are you making some (easily fixed) mistakes when you are booking for business projects and meeting spaces or accommodation?   Roomex’s dedicated Projects & Meetings team specialise in booking group rates for 9+ people per night, setting up project rates for crews, and finding suitable accommodation for long stays – so we asked them about the mistakes that they fix in a flash for businesses just like yours! Booking for business projects and meetings without a clear scope It can happen to the best of us. That you get what you think is the green light to make the company travel booking, and you get ahead of the game by booking. Suddenly, the project shifts, mutates, and in some cases – vanishes. Plans change, and when they do, the last thing you want is to be searching through email confirmations or calling hotels. It’s a whole host of wasted time that actively costs the business money. Or, you book the rates with your favourite chain, only to discover that a new agenda means the meeting rooms or hotel venues aren’t appropriate for what’s been planned. Or, maybe you use a booking engine for speed – only realising that it wasn’t actually business critical and that you could have negotiated a great group rate. The dream solution is to wait for everything in ink. Just like in any business deal, you need a contract, or as close to that as possible before you start the company travel booking process.  But, we know that’s not always reality – so we also suggest using a platform where you can check, change or cancel your bookings whenever you need to, or can speak to a team who can help. In just one hour we can have a proposal in your hands, giving you ample time to check it with each stakeholder. You’ve not wasted any time, and only given our team a quick brief – and while saving time, you also know you’ll be getting the best negotiated price, all with one easy invoice. Your travel management company charges sneaky fees We analysed the top travel management companies to see just what you might not know when you make a business booking, and you do need to look carefully at what’s included. Some only analyse a couple of hundred thousand hotel rates (we offer over a million!) or you might be stacking up some sneaky fees – many charge for every booking that’s made and if you want a consolidated single invoice, you’ll have to pay extra for it. When you have a crew project for the long term, or if you need multiple rooms across multiple dates with different team members, those extra pounds all add up. Some platforms can’t input any company travel booking corporate rates which you have negotiated with your favourite hotels either, and if you’re busy – it can be easy to forget to check each one! If that sounds familiar – now might be the time to analyse the platforms you are using and see if they still meet your needs when booking for business.  Focusing just on the cost Cost is king, and we can’t deny that. We also know that if you’ve had a run of repeat offenders bending the travel policy when booking for business, it’s likely that you have lots of eyes on your budget and your bookings, However, it’s key to approach each project with fresh eyes. Whether you have a team of 30 needing project space regularly for a short period or one event with 100 team members coming from all corners of Europe or the UK, you need to focus on lots of variables. Distance, location, safety, flexibility, inclusivity, alignment with your CSR goals – and that’s just the start! Focusing on cost at all expenses can leave you vulnerable to other far bigger headaches later on. Booking for business without any support We know that booking for business is no easy feat – and whether you book 250 rooms a year or 25,000 a year – you need that support. Many of the best travel managers find that they look up and suddenly realise how busy their jobs are. They can no longer phone in that quick favour, spend 30 minutes negotiating down an event room rate or analyse what happened with that one wild expense bill. We have a great product with Roomex, but we love the human touch. That’s why we made the whole team dedicated to handling these bookings and dilemmas – a team who could be on hand within an hour to solve problems. Don’t go it alone! If you’re a Roomex user you can click Help and get connected to our Projects & Meetings team. Leaving company travel bookings down to employees One downfall some companies have is from letting employees have too much control over bookings. There can be a period of calm where it appears that employees are simply booking in line with guidance, logging their expenses and maintaining their receipts but then there’s the reckoning! This is when the unlucky travel manager is greeted by sacks of receipts, emails requesting clarification, and it’s revealed not everyone was aware which accommodation types were in (or out) of the company policy. In short, there’s a lot of cleaning up to do. At the very least you need a really robust expense policy. (Why not use our free template?) We always say that the best long-term solution is clear visibility for everyone who is involved or part of a business booking. Using a smart platform like Roomex means everyone can see the ins and outs of the bookings- and all the rules. It helps keep things organised, centralised and digitised – all the ingredients to a peaceful travel manager’s day. Roomex has the largest network of workforce-suitable hotels available on our platform, helping you find the right accommodation at the right price, wherever your team go. Our Projects & Meetings team are here to..

Expert Tips on Where to Save and Splurge in Events Meeting Management

Events meeting management is an exciting field, especially now that travel has bounced back. Many clients say that you can’t move without a team member suggesting company events – whether it’s a get-together, offsite meeting or a general spot of events travel –  and we are all for it. At Roomex, we believe that meetings and projects are often best done in person, but we also know that events meeting management can be challenging, with hundreds of different requirements and all the admin to boot.

Your business rate for hotel stays is more negotiable than you think

Table of Contents 1.  Understanding Business Rates for Hotel Stays 2. The Benefits of Negotiating Business Rates 3. Factors Influencing Negotiation Potential 4. Strategies for Negotiating the Best Business Rates 5. Effective Communication and Negotiation Techniques 6. Navigating Online Booking Platforms 7. Utilising a Corporate Travel Management Platform for Rate Negotiation 8. Conclusion   Business travel plays a vital role in today’s corporate world, enabling professionals to expand their networks, attend conferences, and secure new business opportunities. As a corporate traveller, one aspect that shouldn’t be overlooked is securing the best rates for hotel stays. Many business travellers assume that the rates offered to them are fixed and non-negotiable. However, in this article, we’ll unveil the truth: your business rate for hotel stays is more negotiable than you might think. By understanding the dynamics of negotiation and implementing effective strategies, you can unlock significant cost savings and enhanced travel experiences.   Understanding Business Rates for Hotel Stays Business rates refer to the rates offered to corporate travellers, usually through corporate travel management or business travel booking services. These rates are negotiated between hotels and travel management companies to cater specifically to the needs of business travellers. However, there is a common misconception that these rates are fixed and cannot be negotiated further. That’s where the real opportunity lies in exploring the untapped potential for negotiation beyond the initial business rate.   The Benefits of Negotiating Business Rates Negotiating business rates for hotel stays can yield numerous benefits for both businesses and corporate travelers. Firstly, it leads to substantial cost savings, allowing companies to manage their travel budgets more effectively. By securing lower rates, businesses can achieve higher returns on investment from their travel expenses, thereby optimising their expense management solutions and business expense management processes. Moreover, negotiation opens up the possibility of additional perks and flexible arrangements. Hotels may offer complimentary upgrades, access to executive lounges, discounted amenities, or personalised services to entice business travellers. These added benefits can significantly enhance the overall travel experience and contribute to the productivity and satisfaction of corporate travellers. Furthermore, negotiating business rates helps in building long-term relationships with hotels. By demonstrating loyalty and consistent business, corporate travellers can establish rapport with hotel management, leading to preferential treatment, exclusive offers, and access to special rates even outside of negotiated periods.   Factors Influencing Negotiation Potential Several factors influence the negotiation potential for business rates. One critical aspect is seasonality and demand fluctuations. During low-demand periods, hotels may be more willing to negotiate lower rates to fill their rooms. On the other hand, during peak seasons or events, negotiation may be more challenging, but not entirely impossible. Another factor to consider is the length of stay and the frequency of business visits. If your business frequently sends employees to the same hotel or chain, there is a higher likelihood of negotiating better rates due to the potential for a long-term partnership. It is much harder, if not impossible, to negotiate a special rate for one off stays. Additionally, group bookings and corporate partnerships can unlock negotiation opportunities. If your company frequently arranges group travel or has established partnerships with specific hotel chains, you can leverage these relationships to secure more favorable rates and exclusive benefits   Strategies for Negotiating the Best Business Rates To negotiate the best business rates for hotel stays, it’s essential to employ effective strategies. Start by thoroughly researching and comparing competitive rates offered by different hotels in the area. This knowledge will equip you with valuable information to leverage during negotiations and ensure you’re receiving the best possible deal. Leveraging loyalty programs and memberships is another effective strategy. Many hotel chains offer loyalty programs that provide access to exclusive rates, room upgrades, and other perks. By aligning your business travel with a specific hotel chain’s loyalty program, you can enhance your negotiation position and potentially unlock better rates. Developing relationships with hotel sales representatives is crucial. Reach out to the sales teams and establish direct contact to discuss your business’s specific needs. Building personal connections can lead to more fruitful negotiations and tailored offers. Furthermore, consider capitalising on group or extended stay discounts. If your business regularly books multiple rooms or stays for an extended period, hotels are more likely to offer discounted rates to accommodate your needs. Discuss with the hotel’s sales team the potential for group discounts or negotiated rates for extended stays, highlighting the value and consistency your business can provide.   Effective Communication and Negotiation Techniques When approaching negotiations, effective communication is key. Present a compelling case for negotiation by highlighting the potential for long-term business partnerships, frequent visits, or the volume of bookings your company can provide. Emphasise the mutual benefits that can arise from a successful negotiation, such as cost savings, increased brand exposure, or referrals to other business travelers. Flexibility is another valuable negotiation technique. Be open to adjusting travel dates or room types based on the hotel’s availability and needs. By demonstrating flexibility, you increase the chances of finding mutually beneficial solutions that can lead to better rates. Lastly, emphasise the potential for repeat business. Hotels value loyal customers, and if your company can commit to regular stays, convey this as a selling point during negotiations. Highlight the value of a long-term partnership and the positive impact it can have on both parties.   Navigating Online Booking Platforms While negotiating directly with hotels can be fruitful, it’s also essential to leverage online booking platforms to find the best deals. Use search engines and travel aggregator websites to compare prices, read customer reviews, and identify potential negotiation opportunities. Within these platforms, look for hidden negotiation options. Some hotels allow you to submit special requests or contact the property directly before booking. Use these features to inquire about potential discounts or negotiate rates that align with your business needs. Additionally, don’t hesitate to seek direct contact with hotel management. Many hotels provide contact information on their websites or social media channels. By reaching out..

The 5 Best Travel Management Companies | Roomex

Table of Contents 1. What is a business travel management company? 2. Why businesses should use a corporate travel service. 3. What to consider when choosing the best business travel management company? 4. Top corporate travel management companies:      – Roomex      – HRS      – TravelPerk      – Navan (formerly TripActions)      – Booking.com Business 5. Conclusion   Are you tired of the hassle that comes with planning a business trip? From booking flights and hotels to managing expenses and ensuring compliance with travel policies, corporate travel management can be a complex and time-consuming process. That’s where corporate travel management companies come in. These specialised companies offer a range of services designed to streamline business travel management and make the process more efficient and cost-effective. In this article, we’ll be focusing on comparing the top 5 business travel management companies that can help you to optimise your corporate travel management processes. We’ll explore what business travel management companies are, why they are essential for businesses of all sizes, and what factors to consider when choosing the best partner for your needs. So, whether you’re a small business owner or part of a large corporation, join us as we dive into the world of corporate travel management and discover the best companies to help you make the most out of your business trips.   What is a business travel management company? A business travel management company, also known as a corporate travel management company, provides specialised travel services to businesses of all sizes. These companies specialise in managing every aspect of business travel, which can range from booking flights and hotels to managing expenses and ensuring compliance with travel policies. Business travel management companies are essential for businesses that frequently send employees on business trips. These companies work to optimise travel management processes and make the process more efficient and cost-effective. They leverage their expertise, industry connections, and technology solutions to help businesses save money, reduce travel-related risks, and improve employee satisfaction. Whether you’re a small business owner or part of a large corporation, partnering with a business travel management company can help you streamline your corporate travel management processes and achieve your travel-related goals. By outsourcing travel management to these specialised companies, businesses can focus on their core operations while leaving the travel management to the experts.   Why businesses should use a corporate travel service. Businesses that frequently send employees on business trips can benefit greatly from using a corporate travel service to manage their travel arrangements. There are several reasons why businesses should be using a corporate travel service to manage their employees travel. Here are some of the most significant benefits:  Cost savings: One of the key benefits of using a corporate travel service is the ability to save money on travel expenses. These service providers have access to negotiated rates for flights, hotels, and other travel-related expenses, which can result in significant cost savings for businesses. Managing expenses: Using a corporate travel service can also help businesses manage their travel expenses more efficiently. Travel expense management can be a time-consuming and complex process that involves tracking and reconciling multiple receipts and invoices. Corporate travel service providers can help automate this process, making it faster and more accurate. This can help reduce errors and delays in the reimbursement process, which can ultimately improve employee satisfaction. Time savings: Planning and managing travel can be a time-consuming process, especially for businesses that have employees travelling frequently. A corporate travel service can centralise all the elements of corporate travel that a travel manager needs and show you the best possible options. This means less time spent browsing various hotel sites looking for the best rates. Corporate travel platforms also offer services which help to manage itineraries and handle travel expenses, further cutting down on administrative time. Duty of care: Businesses have a duty of care to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees when they’re travelling for work. A corporate travel service can provide travel managers the tools to look after their employees for example, Roomex provides a workforce tracker so travel managers can know where exactly all their on-the-road employees are at any one time. Compliance: Corporate travel services can help businesses ensure compliance with their company travel policy. Many businesses have specific policies in place to govern how travel expenses are managed and reimbursed. By working with a corporate travel service, businesses can ensure that these policies are enforced consistently across all employees and trips, reducing the risk of compliance-related issues. Overall, using a corporate travel service can help businesses save time and money, manage travel expenses more efficiently, ensure the safety and well-being of their employees, and maintain compliance with travel policies and regulations. It’s a smart investment for any businesses that want to optimise their travel management processes.   What to consider when choosing the best business travel management company? When choosing a business travel management company, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you select the best fit for your business needs. Here are some key considerations: Reputation: Look for providers with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality service and customer satisfaction. Check online reviews and ratings from other businesses to get an idea of how each provider performs. Expertise and experience: Consider the level of experience each provider has in the industry. Look for providers with a proven track record of delivering effective solutions for businesses of a similar size and industry. They should have a deep understanding of the travel landscape and be able to provide expert guidance on travel policies, cost savings, pricing forecasts, and compliance. Technology solutions: Evaluate the travel management software and technology used by each provider. The best corporate travel management software should be easy to use, offer seamless booking and travel management features, and provide comprehensive corporate travel reporting. Service level agreements (SLAs): Ensure the company provides clear service level agreements outlining their response times, customer support availability, and issue resolution processes. The..

Roomex Partners with Weston Analytics to Enable Seamless Data Integration

The partnership will save hours of manual work for Roomex and Fatigue360 customers  Dublin, Ireland 13 March 2023 Roomex, the leading provider of workforce hotel booking and management software, announced today a new partnership with Weston Analytics, a provider of solutions and data-driven insights to the rail, construction and infrastructure industry. The partnership will allow customers to import Roomex’s hotel booking data into Weston Analytics’ flagship fatigue management product, Fatigue360.   Fatigue360 is a cloud-based platform that uses advanced algorithms and techniques to optimise crew schedules, ensuring that working crews have the necessary rest periods to perform at their best. By importing hotel booking data from Roomex into Fatigue360, Weston Analytics will be able to accurately track workers journeys and locations. Accommodation location is a key component of fatigue calculations. Roomex provides a comprehensive hotel booking and management solution for companies, with a database of over 1.2 million hotels worldwide. The integration of Roomex’s data into Fatigue360 will allow Weston Analytics clients to factor in crew hotel locations and preferences when creating schedules, improving the overall accuracy of the platform and helping to mitigate fatigue “We are excited to partner with Weston Analytics to save time and money for our customers in the construction, rail and infrastructure industries,” said Garry Moroney, CEO of Roomex. “Our hotel booking platform is a natural partner to the best-in-class wellbeing tracking of Fatigue360.” Our partnership with Roomex and the integration into our end-to-end fatigue risk management and job planning tool, Fatigue360, further enhances our offer to our clients. said Philip Clifford-Brown, Managing Director of Weston Analytics. Our clients can now plan and manage their worksite teams and make more accurate predictions about team availability and preferences, which will enable them to create more efficient and effective team schedules. The integration of Roomex data into Fatigue360 is expected to be completed by the end of Q1 2023. For more information about Roomex, visit http://www.roomex.com. For more information about Weston Analytics, visit http://www.westonanalytics.com. Media Contact: Barry Aldworth Marketing Communications Manager barry.aldworth@roomex.com