Crafting a wine list for a small hotel is a delicate balancing act—part art, part business, and all about enhancing the guest experience. Done right, a wine list can elevate your dining service, boost revenue, and reflect the character of your establishment. Done wrong, it risks overwhelming guests and leaving staff scrambling for answers. Whether you're revamping your current selection or starting from scratch, here are some essential dos and don'ts to guide your way.

If the customer is at the desk and demanding to see you, even if the customer is upset or aggressive, your composed and attentive presence can instantly de-escalate tension. A simple line like, “Thank you for bringing this to my attention—I’m here to help,” can go a long way before you even get into the details. 

The Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act came into effect last October which now means employers must pass on all tips to workers without deductions. It’s expected to benefit more than two million workers in England, Scotland and Wales.

In today’s competitive hospitality industry, guest retention is just as crucial as guest acquisition. One of the most effective ways to maintain a strong connection with past guests is by collecting their email addresses. This simple practice offers a wealth of opportunities to boost occupancy rates, enhance guest experiences, and maximise revenue.

As of February 20, 2025, Google ended commission-based bidding for hotel ads. Previously, hotels paid only when a booking was made. Now, they must pay upfront for clicks (CPC) or set a revenue target (tROAS), increasing financial risk.

Imagine if a store card in a customer’s wallet didn’t just offer retail perks—but also unlocked exclusive savings on hotel stays. That’s exactly what Innfill proposes for John Lewis cardholders, offering them the chance to enjoy discounted leisure breaks when booking directly with you.

With winter barely behind us, talking about the next one might seem premature. But at Innfill, we know that securing early bookings now means a stronger business when the quieter months roll in.

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When did hoteliers stop swapping rooms for profit? It used to be the done thing that 24 hours before the day of arrival a calculation was made to ascertain which rooms were going to be left on the shelf unsold. A moment of truth faced realistically and resolved in a mouse click.

Overall, Booking.com tends to have a broader customer reach globally, particularly in Europe, Asia, and other international markets. But Expedia provides hoteliers with great exposure too, not only on its own site but also through affiliates like Hotels.com, Travelocity, and Orbitz boosting your hotel’s visibility and booking potential.

• Practical Strategies to Boost Revenue Using Layered Rates.• Actionable Insights on Inflation and Costs.• How to Navigate a Challenging Market.