A playbook for hotels
With the 2024-2025 college and professional football seasons just around the corner, hoteliers are already hard at work turning their properties into vibrant hubs of energy and gameday camaraderie. And, even when football ends, there’s always a in-season sport taking place – whether it’s a local team’s match or major sporting events like the World Series, World Cup, or Olympics, hotel operators can leverage various strategies to create a fun-filled environment that keeps guests – and even nearby patrons – entertained and coming back for more.
TIMING IS KEY
Monitor sports schedules closely, including any potential changes in game times due to television network decisions or other factors. Management will want to ensure they keep TVs available for important games, whether that’s by purchasing viewing rights to the specific channels playing the matches or cultivating a fan base for a specific set of teams and only showing games from those cities.
Adjust staffing levels, food and beverage inventory, and promotional activities based on the timing of the game to ensure optimal service and guest satisfaction. Track data from years past to see which game days are the most (and least) popular to staff and order inventory accordingly.
Consider offering early-bird specials or extended happy hours for games that start earlier in the day to attract guests looking for pre-game entertainment. This gets customers into your bar earlier and helps them stay longer, increasing ticket averages and profits.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Forge partnerships with local bands, DJs, or entertainers to host live music performances or themed events on game day, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
Collaborate with nearby businesses, sports clubs, or fan groups to co-promote gameday specials and activities, leveraging their networks and community connections to attract a diverse audience.
Engage with local sports media or bloggers to promote gameday events and specials, reaching a broader audience of sports enthusiasts in the community.
TAILORED MENU AND SPECIALS
Develop a gameday menu featuring a variety of themed dishes and drinks inspired by the teams playing, such as signature cocktails named after star players or hometown favorites.
Offer gameday specials such as discounted appetizer platters, themed combo meals, or “beer bucket” deals for groups, encouraging guests to share and enjoy a communal dining experience.
Create a festive atmosphere in the dining area with sports-themed decorations, team banners, and table centerpieces, immersing guests in the excitement of the game.
INTERACTIVE ENVIRONMENT
Install large-screen TVs throughout the bar area, strategically positioned to provide optimal viewing angles for guests, ensuring everyone has a clear view of the game action.
Incorporate interactive elements into the gameday experience, such as trivia contests, prediction games, or digital scoreboards displaying real-time game updates, engaging guests, and encouraging friendly competition.
Enhance the atmosphere with sportsthemed music playlists, sound effects, and crowd chants played over the venue’s sound system, creating an immersive and energetic environment.
PROMOTIONS AND DISCOUNTS
Launch targeted promotions to incentivize guests to show team spirit, such as offering discounts or freebies for wearing team jerseys, hats, or accessories.
Implement gameday specials such as discounted draft beers, themed cocktail pitchers or “buy one, get one free” appetizer deals during key game moments, enticing guests to stay and enjoy the full game experience.
Partner with local transportation services to offer discounted or complimentary rides to and from the hotel for game attendees, ensuring a safe and convenient transportation option for guests.
RECREATING THE TAILGATE EXPERIENCE
Set up a designated outdoor area adjacent to the hotel, outfitted with grills, picnic tables, and lawn games, creating a vibrant tailgate party atmosphere for guests to enjoy.
Offer a diverse menu of tailgate-inspired food and beverage options, including classic BBQ dishes, stadium-style snacks, and specialty cocktails served in souvenir cups or mugs.
Enhance the outdoor experience with live music performances, interactive games, and themed entertainment, keeping guests entertained and engaged throughout the gameday festivities.
EFFICIENT OPERATIONS
Train staff to efficiently manage the increased demand on game day, emphasizing teamwork, communication, and adaptability to ensure smooth operations and exceptional guest service.
Implement streamlined ordering and payment systems, such as mobile ordering apps or contactless payment options, to expedite service and minimize wait times for guests.
Monitor inventory levels closely and proactively restock essential items such as beer kegs, liquor bottles, and gameday specials to prevent shortages and maintain a seamless guest experience.
CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for guests of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring everyone feels valued and appreciated as part of the gameday festivities. Be sure to offer options for all customers, including non-alcoholic drinks and food options that are vegetarian or gluten-free.
Offer special amenities and perks for hotel guests, such as exclusive access to gameday events, priority seating in the bar area, or complimentary upgrades to enhance their overall experience.
By implementing these strategies and paying attention to the details, hotels can create an unforgettable gameday atmosphere that delights guests, fosters community engagement, and drives repeat business. From tailored menus and interactive environments to efficient operations and data-driven decision-making, hotels can elevate the gameday experience and establish themselves as premier destinations for sports fans and enthusiasts.
