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An industry survey of more than 13,000 VisitEngland assessed serviced accommodation businesses will be distributed as part of a wider review of the UK wide Common Standards star rating system. The UK is one of few regions worldwide that operates a quality accommodation scheme which encompasses service and hospitality as well as facilities and includes a mystery guest overnight stay.
The Common Standards were introduced in 2005 in response to consumer and industry concerns about variations in accommodation standards. It brought together accommodation schemes from AA, VisitScotland, VisitWales and VisitBritain (England’s National Quality Assessed Scheme for accommodation is now the responsibility of VisitEngland).
Now, almost five years since the Common Standards were agreed, this review will look at the importance and relevance of the criteria in assessing serviced accommodation in today’s digital era.
Industry views on criteria currently required to achieve different levels of star ratings -such as bathroom facilities, telephone and internet access, 24 hour room service and type of breakfast offered will be examined.
Terminology used by accommodation providers will also be in question with businesses asked their thoughts on the use of terms such as ‘guest accommodation’, ‘small hotel’ and ‘B&B’.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
