Top tips for growing your hospitality business

RUNNING a guesthouse, lodge or B&B in a small town is often more than just a business — it’s a personal calling.

- TERRENA RATHANLALL

But while passion opens the door, it’s strong business foundations that keep the lights on.

For many small hospitality busi-nesses in South Africa, especially those in rural or coastal communities, growth often feels just out of reach.

Here are a few tips for business owners who want to grow but aren't always sure how to get there:

Strengthen business skills without formal training

Many hospitality entrepreneurs start their businesses from scratch, learning as they go without the benefit of formal training. Yet, understanding the basics of finance, marketing, and operations is essential for long-term growth.

Free resources are available through many organisations like Fetola, Booking. com, online platforms, and community training centres. Even learning one new tool, like how to manage expenses on a spreadsheet or how to create a booking system, can make day-to-day business easier and more profitable.

Explore funding opportunities

Accessing funding is one of the big-gest challenges for small business own-ers. Many don't know where to start, or they've tried before and been turned away. But funding is not out of reach.

Government grants, microloans, and private sector support are available, especially for businesses that can show potential and planning. A simple busi-ness plan and basic fancial records can be the difference between getting help and being overlooked.

Develop a clear growth strategy

Its not enough to work hard; business growth needs direction. Without a plan, many businesses find themselves busy but unsure where they're going next.