This is from an email conversation with the Gillum House B&B, started by the Market Niche article published in Arrington’s Bed & Breakfast Journal:
An article by Kit Cassingham in the May issue stated that one should find their niche in the bed & breakfast industry and hone in on it. Concentrating on the narrow niche that interests the innkeeper will make them more successful.
Market Niche
Who is my target market?
From “Ask Kit!”:
Q: I’m putting together a plan for a small hotel, cabanas style, in the Yucatan peninsula. I know the occupancy rate is good, I know this is the type of hotel that is prevalent in the area, but how do I find out what type of people will be interested in a place like mine? Who is the target market?
Defining My “Perfect” Guest
From “Ask Kit!”:
Q: Thanks for “pushing” me out of my comfort zone. You are right about me being unable to define the people I would like to have in my B&B, the reason is: I do not believe people have to be exactly like me to enjoy what I have to offer.
Gay Market
From “Ask Kit!”:
Q: One niche we want to cater to is the large gay market that has been underserved and not marketed to. What can you share about that?
Organic B&B
From “Ask Kit!”:
Q: Have you heard about B&Bs that are organic oriented? Perhaps I should buy a small farm ….
Market Niche Definition
From “Ask Kit!”:
Q: Our market niche is skiers. How do we attract them their to our inn, rather than the other inns in town?