The Hotelier Edit: Alexander Schiehser, Founder, Schiehser Hotel Group
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In collaboration with HotelPartner Revenue Management, the Independent Hotel Show team caught up with Alexander Schiehser, founder of the Schiehser Hotel Group. In this exclusive interview, Alexander shares insights into his journey in the hospitality industry, the evolution of his hotel group and his valuable advice for those looking to break into the hotel industry.
1. Tell us about yourself, your experience in the hospitality industry and the history of your hotel.
My name is Alexander Schiehser and I am the founder of the Schiehser Hotel Group. I realised at a young age that I wanted to pursue a career in the hospitality industry. After working in various destinations, including Hawaii and Dubai, I took the plunge and took over my first hotel.
It all started with the Hotel Westbahn in Vienna in 2019, and was soon followed by 16 other individual hotels in Germany and Austria. The individuality is reflected in the 839 rooms, which range all the way from shared rooms in a hostel to elegant suites with whirlpool baths. Nevertheless, the common values that unite us as a hotel group are an important focus.
2. In your opinion, what will be the biggest opportunities and challenges in the hotel market this year?
The hotel market is in a state of rapid change, so there will always be new opportunities and challenges. One of the biggest challenges is certainly to keep evolving in order not to stand still and be overtaken by competitors. That's why it's important for us to keep an eye on the latest trends and stay one step ahead, hence our secret motto: "It's always been done this way - doesn't exist for us".
On the other hand, the ever-changing market offers the opportunity to learn new things and to increase efficiency in various areas, such as revenue management, by using the latest technologies and software solutions.
The market has evolved massively in recent years - from no business to a pandemic to a 'hype' in 2022 and 2023 and the return of conventions. However, the most important thing is to maintain control between revenue and costs. Even though hotels have seen strong increases in revenue, it is important to remember that prices have also exploded.
3. How do your independent hotels differ from the larger chains and other independent hotels in Munich?
In the two hotels in Munich, as well as in our hotels in Austria, the hotel group tends to fade into the background for the traveller and the name of the hotel takes centre stage. Each hotel has its own identity or atmosphere and is therefore independent. In addition, there are no standardised services across all hotels, which allows us to stand out from other hotel chains.
The individuality of each hotel gives us the opportunity to appeal to very different customer groups.This is particularly evident in our two hotels in Munich.They could not be closer to each other or more different. Depending on whether guests stay at our Jaeger’s Hostel or Hotel Helvetia, they can enjoy very individual experiences.
4. What advice would you give to someone who wants to start a career in the hotel industry?
Open-mindedness and the constant development of new ideas are definitely two very important aspects in order not to get out of touch in the hotel industry. As I said, the hotel industry is constantly changing, so you need to be as flexible as possible to be able to react quickly to changes, so a certain amount of openness is always helpful. In addition, try to understand the processes of other departments and network with other professionals in the industry. Exchanging ideas with like-minded people can help you see things from a different angle and gain new perspectives. My various international career stops have certainly helped me to think outside the box, and I would highly recommend it to anyone considering a career in the industry.
We are looking forward to bringing the community together at Independent Hotel Show Munich on 20-21 November, secure your free ticket here.
