Direct bookings take the top spot in our 7 pledges – a commitment we made five years ago to empower independent businesses. Prioritising direct bookings means keeping more of your revenue and gaining greater control over your business. This level of autonomy empowers you to reinvest, strengthen guest relationships, and grow your reputation. As an independent company ourselves, we understand the importance of this freedom, which is why we focus so heavily on helping you maximise your direct bookings. 

Like any successful plan, excelling at direct bookings involves more than just one step. That’s why we’ve developed a range of tools to help you retain your profits and maintain independence.  

Tools to Maximise Direct Bookings: 

1. Channel Manager Controls 

Our channel manager includes built-in controls that make managing rates and availability directly a total breeze. Features like OTA surcharges and channel close-outs can be set up or adjusted in seconds, giving you flexibility to suit your business needs. These controls are designed for simplicity and visibility, so you always know your current setup at a glance.  

2. Google Services Integration 

When Google launched their free booking links (Google Zero), we were one of the first to integrate. Since then, this has resulted in over 150,000 commission-free bookings. Even businesses using our Google Hotel Ads connection benefit, with costs per booking often reduced to as low as 5% (just a third of what you’d pay an OTA). 

Direct bookings through Google offer significant advantages including: 

• Full guest details for better engagement 

• Lower cancellation rates 

• More reliable and cost-effective connections 

To get the most out of these tools, we recommend regularly updating your Google Business Profile to ensure it reflects your best face to potential guests. 

3. Bloom Booking Pages 

Our bloom booking pages are among the best in the industry, designed to deliver higher conversion rates through an elegant and user-friendly experience. These pages also offer opportunities to showcase your property. Looking ahead, we’re planning even more enhancements to help drive conversions – stay tuned! 

Offering incentives to guests who book direct, such as exclusive perks or discounts, can also strengthen this channel and create a loyal customer base.  

4. Reputation and Guest Experience Tools 

A strong online reputation is crucial. Without it, even the most appealing property may struggle to convert potential guests. Our Messaging and Reputation Suite tools are designed to enhance the guest experience, paving the way for glowing reviews and more referrals. These are long-term investments in your property’s success. 

We’re also working on an exciting new Guest App, which will further improve the guest experience while lightening your workload. Watch this space…   

Beyond the Tools: Advice and Support 

We know tools are only part of the solution. That’s why we’re here to help you succeed every step of the way with expert advice through webinars, blogs, and personalised phone support. We’re always listening to your feedback to develop the features and services you need most. 

Your Direct Booking Machine in Action 

By utilising these tools, you’ll have a direct booking machine that not only increases your profit but strengthens your business. 

Need proof? Check out our case study on Foyers Lodge to see how they transformed their bookings by using these tools and strategies. In the last 5 years we’ve see a 70% increase in direct bookings, thanks for making all our work so worthwhile!