Guest Supply mid-range hospitality specialist Sonja Allen. Guest Supply mid-range hospitality specialist Sonja Allen.

What makes you a good fit as a mid-range hospitality specialist for Guest Supply?

Having helped to spearhead the launch of Hotelier Express, the only mid-range hospitality platform for the GCC and the first ever mid-range hospitality summit in November 2016, I have had phenomenal firsthand experience of the everyday issues that mid-range hoteliers face. So, when I was asked to join Guest Supply earlier this year, I saw it as an opportunity to support the market even further. My knowledge and experience in the mid-market sector are proving invaluable in developing and understanding products specific to this market.

Which of your company’s products are the best-selling items for mid-market and economy hotels?

We have spent the last few months developing a portfolio of single amenities and dispenser offerings for mid-range and economy hotels that meet both budget and quality requirements. Our ABS 330ml and 553ml non-refillable, bio-degradable, lockable dispensers, with a sleek and modern wall-mounted design, are looking to be top sellers. These offer mid-range hoteliers the following benefits: zero wastage, making it a highly cost effective solution; commitment to hygiene, with sustainable and ecofriendly products as these are made of durable, bio-degradable plastic material; simple design for easy cleaning and a sleek modern look; and a replaceable cartridge with a secure locking method.

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What are some challenges (if any)  that you face in the mid-market hospitality sector?

Being part of a global company which is the world’s largest supplier of amenities and textiles to the hotel industry, we have the quality and resources to achieve almost anything. My personal focus and expertise is within the Middle East market and my aim is to, therefore, support all mid-range hoteliers in this region, through the daily amenities’ challenges they face.

What are some of the opportunities which Guest Supply can capitalise on in the mid-market hospitality sector?

The mid-range hotels in the Middle East are fantastic and showcase great vision. Supporting local and regional hotel chains who are really making their mark on the international stage, together with, independent hotel brands who, until now, used to get overlooked or left out of the mix, is a key concern for Guest Supply. This is an exciting growth market and I feel we can develop some fantastic programmes by working together.

How is Guest Supply different from its competitors?

We’re always seen as proactive. We develop and create trends, invest in research, listen and partner with our clients. Therefore, Guest Supply will always be on the cutting edge of development when understanding the needs of their individual markets.

Do you have any upcoming product launches or expansion plans specifically for the mid-market sector that you can reveal?

The complete mid-range portfolio of amenities will be available from Q3. We have worked with Hotelier Express & Hotelier Middle East to develop a Guest Supply amenities microsite, embedded in BOH on their main website. The microsite can be a useful and easily accessible tool for hoteliers. I am also always available to listen and discuss issues important to our mid-range hoteliers.