A Sanctuary in Nature
Nestled on the banks of Roodeplaat Dam, The Blades Hotel is a unique destination that blends luxury, history, and nature. What began in 2004 as a dream of four South African rowing champions evolved into a four-star hotel and conference venue, offering accommodation, events, weddings, picnics, a spa, and a restaurant.
Rooted in its rowing origins, The Blades retains its connection to the sport while welcoming guests seeking tranquility and elegance. The property played a key role in hosting the World Masters Rowing Regatta in 2023, the first international rowing event on African soil, solidifying its reputation as a standout destination in Tshwane’s hospitality scene.
Despite its charm and heritage, The Blades faced a challenge common to the hospitality industry: ensuring consistent occupancy and increasing revenue. They sought to boost direct bookings to reduce reliance on third-party platforms, maximize guest engagement, and highlight the personalized experiences only they could provide.
To address these goals, eCom partnered with The Blades to craft a targeted marketing strategy that combined innovation with a deep understanding of the property’s unique appeal. This included:
- Long-term campaigns to secure bookings well in advance, ensuring stable occupancy.
- Last-minute promotions to capture spontaneous travelers and maximize online revenue.
- A seamless, user-friendly booking engine integrated with tailored sponsored ads to drive traffic directly to the property’s website.
eCom also helped develop exclusive package deals, offering guests personalized touches like wine pairings, private excursions, and curated dining experiences, which enhanced both bookings and guest satisfaction.
The partnership between The Blades and eCom yielded phenomenal results. In the last quarter of 2024 alone, The Blades sold 148 additional room nights on these tailored campaigns alone, translating to a 170% increase in online revenue during this period compared to the same period in 2023. For the entire year, the direct booking revenue soared by 90%, significantly cutting third-party commission costs.
More than just financial success, these results redefined the guest experience at The Blades. By reinvesting in personalized offerings, the property elevated its reputation for exceptional hospitality. Guests didn’t just book stays—they embarked on curated journeys tailored to their preferences, building loyalty and earning rave reviews.
This collaboration underscores the transformative power of strategic marketing. With eCom’s expertise, The Blades didn’t just grow—it flourished, setting a new standard for guest connections and hospitality excellence.
