Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort: streamlining operations for a multi-type property with ThinkReservations

24% increase in upsells and optimized revenue management

Introduction

Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, a family-run property located near Zion National Park in southern Utah, has transformed its guest experience and operational efficiency with the help of ThinkReservations. Under the leadership of General Manager Jake Millard, the resort has successfully integrated ThinkReservations to manage its diverse accommodations and activities, ensuring seamless operations for its multi-type property with over 150 units.

Background

Zion Ponderosa is a unique destination offering a wide variety of lodging options, including vacation homes, cabins, glamping tents, RV sites, and tent camping spots. With over 150 units spread across its expansive property, the resort also features numerous activities such as guided tours, golf cart rentals, and outdoor adventures. The resort’s mission is to create memorable and impactful experiences for every guest while maintaining operational excellence.

Why ThinkReservations

Before adopting ThinkReservations, Zion Ponderosa faced significant challenges with its previous booking engine. Abandoned carts meant that the property could not capitalize on its large variety of accommodations. It also spoke to how difficult the previous booking process was. According to Jake Millard:

The resort sought a solution that could handle its complex needs:

• A user-friendly booking engine capable of managing multiple accommodation types
• Integration for upselling activities and rentals
• Tools for yield management and reporting to maximize revenue

ThinkReservations emerged as the ideal partner, offering robust features tailored to the resort's diverse operations.

Key features utilized

Zion Ponderosa leverages several ThinkReservations features to manage its multi-type property effectively:

• Yield management: Optimizes rates during high and low seasons to maximize revenue.
• Booking engine: Handles all lodging reservations seamlessly while enabling upsells for activities like guided tours and golf cart rentals.
• Task management: Tracks daily operations and ensures all guest needs are met efficiently.
• Reporting tools: Provides insights into booking pace, occupancy, ADR (average daily rate), and total revenue.

Enhancing guest experience

ThinkReservations has been instrumental in enhancing the guest experience at Zion Ponderosa:

• Simplified booking process: The intuitive booking engine allows guests to reserve accommodations and add-ons like massages or adventure tours effortlessly.
• Upsell opportunities: Guests can explore additional services during the booking process, increasing convenience and boosting revenue.
• Personalized communication: The integration of ThinkMessenger enables real-time communication with guests via text messaging, ensuring their needs are addressed promptly.

Millard explains the impact:

Streamlining operations

Managing a property as diverse as Zion Ponderosa requires efficient tools, and ThinkReservations has delivered:

• Daily management: The task feature keeps staff organized by tracking guest requests such as dietary restrictions or special events like birthdays or group dinners.
• Revenue optimization: The yield management tool helps adjust rates dynamically based on demand trends, ensuring profitability throughout the year.
• Comprehensive reporting: Real-time data provides actionable insights into performance metrics, enabling better decision-making for future planning.

Results and impact

The adoption of ThinkReservations has delivered measurable results for Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort:

• Increased upsells: A 24% boost in upsell revenue from activities and rentals since implementation.
• Optimized revenue management: Improved ADR and occupancy rates through dynamic pricing strategies.
• Enhanced guest satisfaction: Simplified processes have allowed staff to focus more on creating memorable guest experiences.
• Operational efficiency: Streamlined daily operations have reduced staff workload while maintaining high service standards.

Millard reflects on the partnership with ThinkReservations:

Conclusion

Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort's success demonstrates how a multi-type property can leverage technology to streamline operations, enhance guest satisfaction, and drive revenue growth. By adopting ThinkReservations, the resort has not only addressed its previous challenges but also positioned itself as a leader in hospitality near Zion National Park—offering seamless experiences for every type of traveler while optimizing its business performance across all units and activities.