2012 AH&LA lodging survey identifies key trends in amenities, facilities, programs

by Brianna Crandall — August 27, 2012—The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) 2012 Lodging Survey, reportedly the most comprehensive industry-wide survey of its kind, polled more than 52,000 U.S. hotel properties regarding in-room amenities, security and technology features, food and beverage options, guest services, sustainability, property offerings, and more.

Funded by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation (AH&LEF) and conducted by STR, the survey is conducted every two years to give hoteliers a detailed analysis of the industry at large. With this year’s high response rate, hospitality facilities professionals will appreciate the glimpse into industry trends, including the importance of sustainability practices, the increase in technology resources provided, and health-related facilities and practices.

Among the many findings, the survey revealed the following:

• Eco-friendly practices remain important: 76% have a linen/towel reuse program, and water savings programs have been implemented in 75% of properties.
  
• Properties are offering more technology resources: Although most of the positive responses are from upper-tier hotels, 23% of respondents already offer a mobile app for hotel services; and showing the prominence of online travel agencies (OTAs) in the hotel industry, 95% of participants admitted to using a third-party Internet source for bookings.
  
• Hotels are health conscious: Properties that offer an exercise/health/fitness facility reached a new peak at 84%; and non-smoking policies at hotels are gaining momentum as 63% of participants said they are comprised of 100% non-smoking rooms.