Why Stocking More Towels is a Summer Essential for Luxury Hotels
Warm, summer weather brings sunny days, poolside lounging, and guests eager for outdoor adventures. But with this vibrant season often comes a hidden challenge: a significant spike in towel usage. If your luxury hotel’s towel inventory remains the same from winter to summer, you might find yourself caught off guard.
Read on to learn why stocking more towels can be a summer necessity, and why planning can make all the difference.
Why Summer Means More Towels
Summer is not only busier but also more unpredictable. Many hoteliers may not realize their inventory needs a seasonal boost until a shortage occurs. Towels have a tendency to "wander off” during this season—guests often take more towels outside, leave them by the pool, or accidentally pack them away. Without extra towel stock, you risk frustrating guests with delays, which can disrupt their experience and hinder your staff’s efficiency.
Why Extra Towels Make a Difference
Guest Expectations: Whether for a quick refresh or a day by the pool, summer guests often appreciate having fresh towels readily available. An ample supply of towels can show your guests you’re anticipating their needs, creating a thoughtful and memorable stay.
Operational Flow: Running low on towels can disrupt your hotel’s flow, causing delays in room turnover or pulling staff away from guest-focused tasks. A well-stocked inventory can ensure smooth operations, allowing your team to focus on delivering exceptional service.
Lost Linens: Towels often go missing due to higher usage and guest activities such as hiking or swimming. A buffer stock ensures you’re covered, even when linens wear out or don’t make it back to the laundry.
Stay Ahead of the Summer Rush
The key to a smooth summer is planning now before demand surges. Waiting until towels run low can lead to rushed orders or supply chain headaches that can strain your budget and timeline. Here are a few things you can do to prepare:
Review Past Usage: Look at last summer’s numbers to help you predict demand and account for lost linens
Partner Smart: Team up with a trusted commercial launderer to ensure a steady supply of fresh, high-quality towels
Build a Buffer: Consider a 20-30% increase in towel inventory to account for any potential spikes in demand and to cover any potential losses
The Payoff
Strategically increasing your towel inventory for the summer can position your luxury hotel to meet the heightened demand of this busy season. By proactively managing the anticipated increase in towel stock and potential losses, your hotel can demonstrate a commitment to ensuring guest comfort, no matter how small the detail. This thoughtful planning can lead to seamless operations, empowered staff, and, ultimately, satisfied guests whose experiences reinforce your reputation for hospitality.