HOTELSREPORT VISITORGROWTH
HOTELS across County Wexford have, by and large, experienced a marked increase in visitors so far this summer, with a far greater discretionary spend than was had in 2015.
Deputy Manager of the Amber Springs Hotel in Gorey, Emer Walsh said repeat business has been key to the hotel’s success in 2016.
Ms Walsh said the hotel has had almost full occupancy in June and July, with people staying for longer than they have done in recent years.
Ms Walsh said: ‘We had a policy in place from early this year to target longer stays through our packages and a marketing campaign. We are getting a lot of return business from our Santa Experience at Christmas.’
She said the hotel’s guests have a greater discrtionary spend, adding that almost all of its business comes from Irish guests and through weddings.
Richard Tobin of the Fort Canon Hotel in Duncannon said May and July were very good but July has been disappointing.
Mr Tobin said: ‘We are totally weather dependant in Duncannon. We mainly get Irish guests who are relaxed about the weather when they get here and enjoy travelling around the area seeing the sights. Last year people were coming for a day or a night and going. We are not getting day trippers staying around long due to the weather. They don’t stop in for tea or dinner in the evening as much.’
The opening of a new cafe at the hotel has kept business ticking over and Mr Tobin said local custom has been key to this.
He said: ‘Fingers crossed we get some good weather in August,’ adding that the Ireland’s Ancient East campaign may also attract more visitors to stay and eat in Duncannon.
‘If we can get one third of what they’re getting in the west where they have the Wild Atlantic Way we’ll be doing well. With attractions and communitiies here working together things should improve.’
Managing Director of the Brandon House Hotel in New Ross, Pat Quinn, said accommodation figures are up 10 per cent on last year there. Another positive indication of growth is the increase in people using the Solas Croi Spa at the hotel, which opened in 2007.
Mr Quinn said: ‘Guests have more disposable income which is a very good sign.’
The hotel, which employs around 130 people during peak summer season, has enjoyed a busy summer like many hotels around the county.