Monetizing Beyond Bookings – Selling Merchandise, Local Products, and More

While bookings are the main source of income for most hospitality businesses, smart property owners maximize revenue by offering additional products and experiences. Selling exclusive merchandise, local artisan goods, or personalized souvenirs not only increases profits but also strengthens the guest’s emotional connection to your brand.

Real-World Example: A Boutique Hotel That Increased Revenue by 30%

A small coastal resort in Thailand launched a line of handmade coconut oil skincare products, embroidered robes, and artisanal candles sourced from local craftsmen. By promoting these items through their website, gift shop, and checkout process, they saw a 30% boost in revenue, with guests continuing to purchase products even after their stay.

Ways to Monetize Beyond Bookings

1. Create Branded Merchandise

• Sell T-shirts, hoodies, tote bags, mugs, or keychains with your property’s logo or a unique design representing the experience.
• Consider eco-friendly products, such as reusable water bottles or bamboo cutlery sets, that align with sustainable travel.
• Offer limited-edition seasonal collections to create exclusivity.

2. Curate Local Artisan Goods

• Partner with local artists, farmers, and craft makers to sell handmade goods that reflect the region’s culture.
• Think of handwoven textiles, handcrafted jewelry, locally roasted coffee, or artisanal chocolates.
• Set up a small on-site store or an online shop where guests can purchase items post-stay.

3. Offer Signature Food and Beverage Items

• If your property has a specialty dish, homemade jam, or a unique blend of tea or coffee, consider packaging and selling it.
• Wine resorts and farm stays often sell bottles of their own wine, fresh honey, or organic produce.
• Offer cooking classes with take-home recipe kits for guests to recreate the experience at home.

4. Introduce Personalized Souvenirs

Let guests customize their merchandise, such as engraved wooden coasters, embroidered towels, or framed photos from their trip.
Offer digital photo albums or video memories of their stay as a premium service.

5. Subscription-Based Offerings

Create a monthly subscription box featuring items from your property, such as a “Farm Stay Box” with homemade soaps, herbal teas, and farm-fresh honey.
Offer exclusive discounts or perks for returning guests through a VIP membership.

6. Sell Experience Packages

Offer gift vouchers for stays, spa treatments, or adventure activities.
Create seasonal experience bundles, such as a “Winter Wellness Package” with hot chocolate, cozy blankets, and a future stay discount.
Allow guests to pre-book special activities for their next visit.

10 Interactive Questions for This Chapter

1. What products or experiences from your property do guests already love?
2. Could you sell local souvenirs or handmade products to enhance guest memories?
3. Is there a food or beverage item unique to your stay that could be packaged and sold?
4. How can branded merchandise turn past guests into brand ambassadors?
5. Could you collaborate with local artists or businesses to offer exclusive items?
6. Would a subscription box featuring property-related items be viable?
7. What limited-edition or seasonal products could create excitement?
8. Can you offer personalized souvenirs like engraved keychains or embroidered towels?
9. Could an online store help generate sales even when guests aren’t staying?
10. How can you use storytelling to market these additional products effectively?