Strong September for hoteliers in Bristol

Hoteliers in Bristol experienced a robust September with occupancy and rooms yield increasing in comparison to the same time last year.

That’s the view according to the latest data released from the Bristol office of PKF Accountants & business advisers which shows that occupancy increased 7.4% from 74.3% in 2009 to 79.8% in 2010.

Although average rooms rates dropped slightly 0.6% from £71.26 in 2009 to £70.82 in 2010 the overall impact on rooms yield was a rise of 6.8% from £52.94 in 2009 to £56.51 in 2010.

Neil Dimes, partner in charge at the Bristol office of PKF said: “September was a strong month for the Bristol hotel sector and builds on a succession of good months.

“September is also a very busy month for the city with numerous events taking place including the half marathon, Bris Fest and Gordon Bennett Balloon Race. The Ryder Cup, which took place in Newport in early October, may also have impacted on occupancy in the city with supporters to the event staying over.

“The Chancellor’s Spending Review is likely to affect hoteliers moving forward as businesses tighten their belts once again. The solid figures we have seen over the past few months are at least a good start point if there are to be any further bumps in the road ahead.”

In Bath, occupancy increased 2.4% from 82.8% in 2009 to 84.8% in 2010 with average room rates also increasing 9.3% from £95.78 in 2009 to £104.67 in 2010. The overall impact on rooms yield was a rise of 11.9% from £79.32 in 2009 to £88.76 in 2010.

Elsewhere occupancy in Swindon rose 11.5%, with rooms yield also rising 3.6% however average room rates dropped 7.0%.