Limerick has lowest hotel room rates in country
HIGH profile festivals and events are needed to highlight Limerick’s image, argues Cllr Joe Leddin, reacting to this week’s confirmation that the city has the lowest hotel charges in the country.
He told the Limerick Post: “While there is a myriad of events held in the city throughout the calendar year, the majority do not deliver any economic impact in terms of bed nights or positive branding of Limerick nationally”.
The average room occupancy rate in Limerick, it has been revealed, is €57, compared to €96 in Kilkenny. Dublin, with a multiplicity of hotels and guest houses, came in with a room rate of €77.
The variations in prices were described by Cllr Leddin as startling.
“The figures released suggest that Limerick does not have the same appeal as other locations. Cork, Dublin and Kilkenny, and indeed, towns throughout the land, have festivals that attract national and international publicity.
“We need to go out and sell our city. We have the venues but we don’t seem to have the same clout as others in attracting major international events”.
Referring to a comment made by Seamus MacCormack, director of market development in Hotels.com, that “events and concerts are now the main driver of visitors to various cities,” Cllr Leddin says:
“Limerick has huge potential to develop annual events that can deliver significant economic benefits to the local economy but a coherent strategy and commitment is required both from the public and private sector”.
He has spoken with Limerick city’s new “super manager” Conn Murray, on the issue.
“I have outlined my view as to what structure needs to be established if we are serious about developing a thriving festivals and events calendar in Limerick”.
Cllr Leddin is in no doubt that the city is losing millions of lost revenue and jobs, especially in the services sector every year.
A leading hotelier told the Limerick Post that it was non-profitable to sell bedrooms, with breakfast included, at under €60 per night.
“There are high maintenance costs to be taken into consideration. We peg our room rates in the hope that guests will spend money in food, drink and hotel entertainment”.
