The Challenge: A Costly Double Booking
When Deeside Snugs first opened, they quickly encountered an issue that made clear the need for a better booking system. “We had a terrible experience when we were not long open. We got a double booking.” Billy explained. Initially, they relied solely on Airbnb and Booking.com without a channel manager to synchronise bookings, which made double bookings almost inevitable.
Billy realised the risk of continuing without a proper system. “Because we had five properties on the go, I didn’t want to chance another double booking, I could have been liable to get the guest other accommodation and perhaps compensation as well.”
After a neighbour strongly recommended freetobook, they decided to get started.
But the need for a booking system wasn’t just about avoiding errors. Billy noticed they were missing out on direct bookings from returning guests. “I thought, oh goodness, I’m losing maybe 20% here”.
Since implementing freetobook, Deeside Snugs has seen a shift in guest booking habits. “All these bookings I was getting through Airbnb and Booking.com, I’m getting them direct now. So that more than pays for any fees I have for the system.”
“We’re saving 20%. One booking I had was £500 in fees to Booking.com. If they book directly, it doesn’t cost me anything. So, it’s not long before it’s a saving.”