The biggest impact of hosting the 2010 Soccer World Cup on the hotel industry will only be seen in the long term when guests choose whether or not to return to these establishments, said Nick Seewer, CEO of the Pepper Club Hotel & Spa on Tuesday.

A combination of tough economic conditions and an increase in room stock has put many hotels in South Africa under pressure to maintain occupancy levels over the past year.

STR Global, which tracks supply and demand data for the global hotel industry, released its global benchmark report last week that showed a decline in average occupancy in South Africa of 8,5% for the year to June.

Seewer the Pepper Club Hotel & Spa, which opened its doors in Cape Town in March 2010, said while the World Cup did lead to improved trading conditions for select hotels, the full benefit may only be seen next year and beyond.

"The World Cup had a hugely positive effect on our local tourism industry. However, the biggest impact will only be seen in the long term when guests choose whether or not to return to these establishments.

"In the current climate, however, the hotels that survive are those that offer good service, value for money and which differentiate themselves from other establishments in the market."

Seewer says that with most hotels engaged in a price war at present, those that offer unique services, products, or facilities will stand out in a cluttered market place.

"For example, some hotels have elected to cater to a specific market, which make them appealing to a select niche industry," Seewer said.

He says Pepper Club Hotel & Spa has differentiated itself from local competition by being the first hotel to combine a five-star hotel property in the heart of Cape Town with a multi-million rand beach club on the Camps Bay beachfront - Pepper Club on the Beach.

"Guests of the Pepper Club can be shuttled to and from our beach club, ensuring that they can enjoy all of the attractions that Cape Town has to offer. Access to facilities such as showers and locker rooms also means they can enjoy a day on the beach and a sumptuous meal at our beach club restaurant without having to head back to the hotel to change." – I-Net Bridge

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