By Ian Neubauer
Occupancy rates in South Australian hotels in 2007 reached 81 per cent, according to the AHA South Australia’s annual report on accommodation statistics.
Figures collected by the group show occupancy rates are 2 per cent higher on 2006 — representing an 11 percent rise on 2005 and a 20 per cent rise on 2004. March was the best month of the year with occupancy rates of 93 per cent, while strong conference business pushed occupancy rates to 89 per cent in the month of October.
“The AHA South Australian accommodation statistics for 2007 are very encouraging,” said AHA South Australia general manager, Ian Horne. “The surge in business is largely because of South Australia’s strong commitment to major events, such as the Clipsal 500 and our ability to consistently attract major conferences.
“But this needs to be tempered by the reality that there are several new hotel developments on the horizon in Adelaide, such as Crowne Plaza Adelaide and that the local market is still in a period of consolidation.”
Horne said that until new hotels open in Adelaide, the AHA expects continued growth in room rates and revenue per available room in Adelaide.
“It’s important that operators, investors and potential investors continue to show confidence in the Adelaide accommodation market,” he said.