Group business represents a significant revenue stream for many hotels, but accurately forecasting this segment can be a formidable challenge. Unlike transient bookings, which are often driven by individual travelers and shorter lead times, group business involves larger blocks of rooms, longer booking windows, and unique demand patterns. These complexities make it difficult to predict group occupancy and optimize pricing strategies.

The challenges with forecasting group business

One of the main challenges in forecasting group business lies in the disconnect between group and transient demand data. Traditional forecasting models primarily focus on transient business, neglecting the nuances of group demand. Group data typically only impacts forecasts after blocks are confirmed, leading to a delayed understanding of the true demand landscape.

In addition, group bookings are subject to fluctuations and uncertainties. The number of rooms picked up from a group block can vary due to cancellations, no-shows, or changes in group size. This "wash" factor can significantly impact occupancy and revenue, making it critical for you to anticipate and account for in your forecasts.

Developing group forecasts

Recognizing these challenges, we’re developing a suite of machine learning forecasting models in BlockBuster to address the complexities of group business and enhance total house forecast accuracy.

  • Group wash will predict the number of rooms from a group block that won’t be picked up, allowing you to adjust your availability and demand forecasts accordingly. By incorporating this "wash" factor upfront, you can avoid overestimating demand and optimize pricing strategies.
  • Pipeline conversion will predict the likelihood of conversion for each RFP. It will allow you to factor in potential group demand earlier, improving the accuracy of rate recommendations and operational planning.
  • Unforeseen demand/future business will predict future group RFPs based on historical trends, market conditions, and other factors. By anticipating untapped demand, you can proactively adjust your strategies and capture potential revenue opportunities.

Take your group forecasting to the next level

By integrating group demand data into your forecasting process you’ll be empowered to make informed decisions, align your transient pricing strategies, and therefore maximize your overall profitability.

Our investment in BlockBuster is helping hoteliers to unlock revenue and profit potential.

Now’s the time to take the next step and discover what these exciting developments can mean for you and the management of your group business.

About Duetto

Duetto is the leading revenue strategy platform for the hospitality industry, unlocking revenue for rooms and event spaces in more than 6,800 hotels, casinos, and resorts globally. The creators of Open Pricing, Duetto's RMS leverages real-time data, predictive analytics, and automation tools to optimize pricing and revenue strategies, driving increased profitability and operational efficiency. With comprehensive reporting and forecasting capabilities, Duetto empowers hospitality professionals with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of the modern travel landscape. Named the world's #1 revenue management system in the HotelTechAwards four years running, from 2022 to 2025, Duetto is on a mission to become the revenue and profit operating system for the hotel industry. For more information, please visit duettocloud.com.

Julia Pedrol
Content & PR Manager
Duetto