A hotel’s star rating is one of the most important aspects of a hotel.
A star rating is more than just a marketing scheme - it’s used to classify a hotel based on its cleanliness, quality, level of service, and amenities.
Star ratings also help categorise the hotel experience for guests, suppliers, and hospitality professionals.
If you’re a hotel supplier, you might be wondering how star ratings are relevant to your business.
So in this week’s blog post, we’ve broken down all the essentials of hotel star ratings, as well as the specific opportunities they can present for your business.
Read on to find out more!
How do hotel star ratings work?
To put it simply, the number of stars a hotel has provides a broad indicator of its quality.
Most classification systems work on a 1 to 5 star rating basis, with 1 star being the lowest and 5 stars being the highest quality.
Sounds simple enough, right?
Not quite! Unfortunately, there’s still no universally accepted star rating system for hotels. This makes it hard to find a common opinion on a hotel’s rating.
Currently, global hotels are given a star rating by independent organisations, tourism authorities, and evaluating bodies.
All these awarding bodies have different criteria and rating systems, which means one hotel can have multiple differing star ratings. For most rating bodies, the main criteria for awarding a hotel a particular star rating are the quality of service, facilities, and features and amenities.
The most common hotel star ratings include the European Hotelstars Union, the Michelin Guide, AAA Diamond Ratings and the Forbes Travel Guide. The majority of these use the 1 to 5-star rating model, however, there are exceptions to this across the board.
Overview of THP database hotel rating definitions
1 star hotels
1 star hotels are the lowest rung in most hotel star rating systems.
These hotels provide basic accommodations, with minimal amenities. Each room will typically contain a bed and a bathroom, with nothing in the way of extras like a working desk, TV, or beautiful vistas.
While they’re typically no-frills destinations, 1 star hotels still provide ample opportunities for suppliers. These properties generally require basic furnishings, essential appliances, and cost-effective solutions.
The best examples of 1 star hotels are budget motels and small backpacker hostels, all of which have a high guest volume at a lower price.
2 star hotels
2 star hotels are a step up from 1 star hotels, providing limited amenities with modest accommodations.
This could include a phone or TV in the room, a more extensive reception, and daily housekeeping services. There is also the possibility of a small restaurant or café.
For suppliers, this presents the opportunity to partner with a 2 star hotel to provide functional furniture, standard appliances, low-cost bedding, and more.
The best examples of 2 star hotels are economy hotels and budget chains such as Motel 8 or Comfort Inn.
3 star hotels
3 star hotels are mid-range accommodations, with more amenities and services than 2 star properties. These places still offer affordability but with more comfort.
3 star hotels generally include comfortable rooms, some business facilities, and casual dining options. Rooms usually have a desk, closet, television, and beverages.
In addition to the extra amenities afforded to the room, there is usually more in the way of facilities in the hotel itself. This might mean a fitness centre, conference rooms, a pool and more extensive food and beverage options.
For suppliers, catering to the needs of 3 star hotels generally entails quality furnishings, upgraded appliances, and mid-range bedding.
The best-known examples of 3 star hotels are business and standard chain hotels such as Premier Inn, Courtyard by Marriott and Hampton Inn.
4 star hotels
4 star hotels are the starting point for a luxury hotel experience. They’re upscale accommodations with high-end amenities and top-notch service.
Working on a 4 star hotel project, you can expect the hotel to require spacious rooms; with high-quality furnishing, pillowtop mattresses, bathrobes, slippers, minibars, and high-end toiletries.
On-property amenities include spas, indoor and outdoor pools, conference centres, fitness studios, and fine dining options.
The extensive food and beverage options in 4 star hotels will generally require advanced kitchen equipment.
There are a range of benefits for suppliers looking to work with 4 star hotels. This includes a consistent demand for high-quality products and the potential for larger orders, amongst others.
The best examples of 4 star hotels are boutique hotels, such as Sydney’s Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, or upscale chains, such as Westin by Marriott.
5 star hotels
5 star hotels are at the top of the food chain when it comes to star ratings and represent the ultimate in luxury.
To be awarded a 5 star rating, hotels need to be luxury accommodations with extensive amenities and premium, personalised service.
This involves elegant rooms, gourmet dining, spa services, and high-end concierges. There are usually several gourmet restaurants on-site, some with Michelin stars.
For suppliers working with a luxury 5 star hotel, your business will be expected to provide top-tier furnishings, state-of-the-art appliances and premium linens.
The best examples of 5 star hotels are luxury resorts and flagship brands of major hotel groups. This includes the Ritz Carlton, Waldorf Astoria and the Four Seasons.
Star ratings FAQ
Q1: What defines a 5 star hotel compared to a 4 star hotel?
A: A 5 star hotel is the height of luxury and generally caters to a wealthier clientele. It includes a higher level of luxury, with extensive amenities such as gourmet dining, spa services, and personalized services. 4 star hotels offer upscale accommodations with a slightly less extensive range of amenities and services.
Q2: How can suppliers benefit from targeting 4 and 5 star hotels?
A: Suppliers can benefit from high-value contracts, consistent demand for premium products, and opportunities for long-term partnerships with luxury hotel brands, which commonly have an extensive pipeline.
Q3: Are there specific product requirements for 1 star versus 5 star hotels?
A: Yes, 1 star hotels typically require basic, cost-effective products, while 5 star hotels demand high-quality, luxury items that enhance guest experience and meet high standards of comfort and service.
Q4: How often do 4 and 5 star hotels update their furnishings and equipment?
A: 4 and 5 star hotels often update their furnishings and equipment regularly to maintain a high standard of luxury and comfort, typically every few years or as part of scheduled refurbishments.
Q5: What are some examples of successful supplier partnerships with 4 and 5 star hotels?
A: Examples can include suppliers providing bespoke furniture for luxury suites, high-end kitchen equipment for gourmet restaurants, or premium linens for guest rooms in top-tier hotel chains.
Sources:
https://www.euronews.com/travel/2024/03/12/an-objective-anchor-in-the-sea-of-reviews-heres-how-hotel-star-ratings-work-and-why-they-m
https://www.kayak.com/news/what-do-hotel-stars-mean/