News for the Hospitality Executive |
Washington, September 8,
2011
– While Hurricane Irene and its ensuing damage served as a learning
experience
for the lodging industry, hoteliers along the eastern seaboard provided
exceptional service and safety to guests. The American Hotel
&
Lodging Association (AH&LA) polled members to determine the extent
of their
damage and recommendations and tips. A number of hoteliers
relayed
stories ranging from employees who went above and beyond to salvage
disrupted
weddings to sleeping on cots in order to stay on property to acts of
kindness
by both employees and guests. The survey revealed that the top issues hoteliers faced were labor challenges around employees being able to get to work, power loss, wind damage, flooding, leaks, and food spoilage. Hoteliers said among the things they’d do differently include getting a generator, better employee training and communication, addressing prepaid rooms needing to be cancelled, and revising action plans. AH&LA culled together a lengthy list of action items to consider in advance, during, and following a natural disaster, including:
For a complete list of member recommendations, along with federal and allied member resources available to help members prepare for natural disasters ranging from hurricanes to earthquakes to tornados, visit http://www.ahla.com/irene/. Serving the hospitality industry for a century, AH&LA is the sole national association representing all sectors and stakeholders in the lodging industry, including individual hotel property members, hotel companies, student and faculty members, and industry suppliers. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AH&LA provides members with national advocacy on Capitol Hill, public relations and image management, education, research and information, and other value-added services to provide bottom line savings and ensure a positive business climate for the lodging industry. Partner state associations provide local representation and additional cost-saving benefits to members |
Contact:
Kathryn Potter [email protected] |