The first quarter of 2024 paints a bright picture for Adelaide CBD’s hotel industry. As revealed in the 3 January 2024 ‘Forward STAR: Occupancy on the Books’ report, the city's hotels are capitalising on a series of high-profile events, showcasing a robust recovery and growth. This positive trend is a strong indicator of the sector's resilience and its role in the city's economic growth and strategic positioning as a top destination for business and leisure travellers.
A Promising Start: January Bookings Soar
City hotels have kicked off January with an impressive start, already half-booked for the month and forward bookings have climbed by 5 points compared to last year.
This surge ties in neatly with major events like the Adelaide International, Santos Tour Down Under, and numerous cricket matches at Adelaide Oval. Additionally, business events are on the rise, with an anticipated 1,000 delegates expected to attend various conferences – a tenfold increase from last January according to Business Events Adelaide.
Looking Ahead: February to April Shows Positive Trends
The trend continues beyond January. Bookings from the start of February to the end of April are already 5 points higher than the previous year. This uptick can be attributed to high-profile events such as Adelaide Fringe, LIVGolf, AFL Gather Round, and the Australian Renewable Energy Conference.
The following data highlights the occupancy rates for 2024 as compared to 2023:
Looking to | Occupancy on the books | |
(as of 1/1/2024) | This year | Last year |
Jan 2024 | 51% | 46% |
Feb 2024 | 34% | 26% |
Mar 2024 | 36% | 32% |
Apr 2024 | 31% | 28% |
Surpassing Pre-COVID Levels Amidst Increased Supply
November last year brought another milestone when hotel room demand surpassed pre-COVID levels, despite a 20% increase in supply since 2019. It reflects the industry's resilience and adaptability in the face of global challenges.
A Magnet for Investors
The hotel market has proven to be an attractive avenue for investors with demand for accommodation in Adelaide clear. In 2023, we witnessed the opening of notable hotels such as TRYP by Wyndham and Vibe Hotel, and the multi-million-dollar refurbishment of Hotel Alba.
The construction of the $200 million Marriott Adelaide at the GPO site and the groundbreaking of the new $400 million Market Square site next to the Central Markets are signs of the industry's growth and potential.
Interested in more information like this? The Adelaide Economic Development Agency (AEDA) regularly publishes industry updates and economic reports to inform investment decisions and help you understand the latest on the city economy, population, tourism and property markets.
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