New Mandatory Items for Operators: Standardized Linen, Safe Boxes, and Kitchenware
Starting from 1st April 2022, we are expanding the list of mandatory items to be provided by the Operator for existing and upcoming properties. This is to ensure better guest satisfaction and smoother operations.
Standardized Items refer to specific items that must be provided by the Operator for all properties. These items include:
- Standardized Linen: Bed sheets and towels
- Standardized Safe boxes
- Standardized Kitchenware: Glasses, plates, crockery, and cutlery
Definitions:
- Cutlery: A collective ensemble of eating and serving utensils such as knives, forks, and spoons.
- Crockery: Plates, dishes, and other eating and serving tableware.
All other items can be provided by the landlords, as long as they are in presentable and working condition.
Explanation:
The Standardized Linen program ensures that all properties have the same high-quality bed sheets and towels. These hotel-grade items are specially designed to withstand multiple washes with the laundry company. This program also eliminates the chance of misplacing any item, which is crucial when processing 1,000+ items with laundry companies on a daily basis. In case of any replacements, these items are readily available at discounted rates, with zero downtime.
Our newest buying standards for bed sheets are 240 thread count, polycotton 80/20%, towels are 600gsm, 100% cotton, and bath mats are 900gsm.
Standardized Safe boxes
The Problem:
Using regular safe boxes is not practical in the hospitality business and can lead to serious problems for both the Operator and the Landlord. 1 out of 3 guests will generally lock the safe box and forget the pin code. This often happens during checkout when guests have a flight to catch. In such cases, the Operator has to deliver the safety security key to restore access. If for any reason the safety key is not working or gets lost, this can lead to an even more serious problem, such as breaking the safe box to regain access to guest items.
The Solution:
The solution is to use hotel-grade standardized safe boxes that provide three extra layers of protection. These safe boxes have a simplified way of operating, with instructions embedded for guests to avoid mistakes. Guests can create their own pin code with ease, and no further guidance is needed. In case a guest forgets their PIN, the duty supervisor has access to a secure file containing the unique MASTER CODE of that safe box. This can be remotely provided to the guest, allowing them to restore access instantly. The MASTER CODE will then be replaced with a new one when the guest checks out. In case of an emergency, such as a low battery or a malfunctioning MASTER CODE, the company's Security Supervisor holds a MASTER KEY that can be used to restore physical access to the safe box.
Standardized Kitchenware
The Problem:
7 out of 10 guests will unintentionally break at least one glass or plate during their stay. When properties are rented with kitchenware provided by the landlords, it can be challenging to find similar models for replacements. This often leads to uncoordinated sets or the need to replace the entire set, which can be costly and time-consuming. Additionally, many items provided by landlords are incomplete, overpriced, or excessive, causing dissatisfaction for guests when they are asked to pay for a broken or expensive item. It is also impractical to account for each item during check-out, even with a full inspection conducted by the Guest Relations Officer.
The Solution:
The solution is to use Standardized Kitchenware, which involves buying professional, long-lasting, and inexpensive kitchenware in bulk quantities with volume discounts. Each property has set standards for the number of spoons, forks, and knives as part of the kitchenware. For example, a 1-bedroom or studio apartment should have a simple set number that can be easily replenished by housekeepers, inspectors, or GRO's. By using inexpensive rates, guests feel reasonably treated when paying for a broken item, and quotations are provided instantly during check-out. This avoids the hassle of reaching out to the landlord or having to replace custom-made kitchenware.