Journey to deflagging
Originally acquired from a bank, owner Jason Fazio initially joined a large, well-known hotel chain for industry experience. However, challenges soon emerged under its franchise model. High loyalty and marketing fees placed financial constraints on the property and restricted the transition to an extended-stay model.
What’s more, the hotel chain instilled strict branding requirements that didn’t suit Jason’s vision.
“The system was too rigid,” says Jason. “It wasn’t configurable or scalable enough to support our desired growth.”
With limited customer support and mounting costs, Jason and his team decided to deflag and operate independently after the property’s second renewal window.
Choosing Cloudbeds: A flexible, scalable solution
Leveraging his background in software, Jason sought a cloud-based system that was user-friendly, easily configurable, and scalable. Other crucial factors included excellent onboarding and customer support, as well as robust reporting tools. Cloudbeds emerged as the ideal solution.
“The previous system lacked Cloudbeds’ intuitive layout and menu structure,” says Jason. “It felt like you needed a college degree and an MBA just to navigate it.”
Cloudbeds also offered improved connectivity and reliability, ensuring seamless integration and management of the property’s existing OTA channels.
The benefits of independence
Since partnering with Cloudbeds, Home Springs Inn & Studios has experienced significant financial and operational gains, saving over $90,000 annually by eliminating franchise fees and royalties.
The property’s extended-stay model has also proven successful, especially during uncertain economic times. Occupancy rates have rebounded since de-flagging, doubling since the property’s lowest point during the pandemic.
“Cloudbeds makes you feel in control of your hotel,” shares Jason. “It’s hands-on, simple, and highly customizable.”
Jason and his team have managed to increase operational efficiency by cutting down on time spent dealing with systems management. Cloudbeds has also granted greater control over property branding, helping Jason to further tailor their guest experience.
The transition to independence has granted Home Spring Inn & Studios financial flexibility and long-term growth potential. With Cloudbeds, Jason and his team can anticipate market trends, adapt proactively, and develop the property on their own terms. As Jason puts it,
In this industry, you have to adapt to survive. Now, I have the freedom to expand and build something I truly own.
