By Ned Washburn
The extended-stay hotel sector has experienced a remarkable evolution over the past decade, emerging as a significant component of the hospitality industry. This growth is driven by a unique blend of benefits for both guests and investors, strategic design elements, and its adaptation to the changing dynamics of travel and work. However, like any burgeoning sector, it faces its own set of challenges and opportunities, particularly in the contexts of economic development, rising costs, and global industry impacts.
Extended-stay hotels offer a distinct value proposition to guests, providing a home-like environment with amenities suited for longer stays. This includes fully equipped kitchens, larger living spaces, and on-site laundry facilities, which offer convenience and cost savings for guests. From a business traveler to a relocating family, the extended-stay model provides the flexibility and comfort that traditional hotels often lack.
For investors, the extended-stay sector presents a lucrative opportunity. These properties typically achieve higher occupancy rates, require less frequent guest turnover, which translates to lower operational costs and more stable revenue streams, and already shown resilience during economic downturns.
The extended-stay hotel market is projected to grow from $18.33 billion in 2022 to $25 billion by 2027, at a compound annual growth rate of 6.5%​​. This growth highlights the sector’s increasing popularity and its ability to adapt to market demands. Extended-stay hotels have not only maintained high occupancy rates but also demonstrated significant resilience in revenue performance during economic downturns. For instance, while the broader hotel industry experienced substantial declines in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, extended-stay hotels saw only a 15.8% drop in demand, showcasing their stability and attractiveness as an investment​​.
The future of travel and work appears increasingly mobile and flexible, trends that the extended-stay sector is well-positioned to capitalize on. With more people embracing remote work, there is a growing demand for accommodations that can double as temporary living and working spaces. This shift presents extended-stay hotels with the opportunity to serve as hybrid spaces that cater not only to traditional travelers but also to digital nomads and remote workers, integrating workspaces into room designs.
Economically, extended-stay hotels contribute significantly to local economies. They attract long-term visitors, who are likely to spend more in the area than typical tourists. Moreover, these properties create jobs, both directly within the hotel and indirectly through partnerships with local businesses and service providers.
The profitability of extended-stay hotels hinges on strategic operational efficiencies and thoughtful design. Efficient space utilization is critical; rooms must be designed to maximize comfort and utility, blending the aesthetics of a private apartment with the functionality of a hotel room. Innovative use of technology in operations—from automated check-ins to customer relationship management systems—can further enhance efficiency and guest satisfaction.
Moreover, sustainability has become a crucial factor in operational and design strategies. Implementing energy-efficient systems, waste reduction programs, and sustainable construction materials not only reduces the environmental impact but also appeals to the growing demographic of eco-conscious travelers.
Despite its promising outlook, the extended-stay sector faces several challenges. Rising land and construction costs pose significant barriers to entry and expansion, particularly in urban areas where space is at a premium. Furthermore, the increasing complexity of local zoning and regulatory environments can delay new developments.
The sector also must navigate the potential impacts of economic shifts and geopolitical events, such as trade policies and international conflicts, which could affect travel patterns and investment flows in the hospitality industry globally.
The extended-stay hotel sector stands at the crossroads of current trends and future possibilities. By leveraging its unique strengths and addressing the imminent challenges, this segment can not only endure but thrive. It offers a promising avenue for development within the broader hospitality industry, providing enhanced options for guests and robust opportunities for investors. As we move forward, the ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of travel and economics will determine the sustained success of extended-stay hotels in the global market.
