Elucidating the aesthetic and operational characteristics of UK boutique hotels

Abstract

PurposeThe paper seeks to clarify the aesthetic and operational characteristics of UK boutique hotels so as to obtain a clearer definition of boutique hotels.Design/methodology/approachSince an official list of boutique hotels is not available, the study looked at 15 consortia recognised as operating bona fide boutique hotels by a few authoritative sources (e.g. Pricewaterhouse Coopers, the RAC). Web sites of each boutique hotel were scrutinised by content analysing vital operational characteristics and aesthetic features that were presented. A comparative analysis was then carried out with the findings and interviews obtained from four boutique hotel managers to establish the common characteristics of boutique hotels.FindingsThe paper describes the aesthetics and operational characteristics of UK boutique hotels, indicating what can be found in a boutique hotel. One of the many important findings of this study suggests that the majority of boutique hotels are not privately owned, contradicting previous studies.Research limitations/implicationsThe list of characteristics is not exhaustive, although the interest in UK boutique hotels is rather recent. The research method used in this study has not been used before, and it is therefore recommended that research on consumer perceptions of boutique hotels should help to augment and balance the findings of this study.Practical implicationsA meaningful and functional definition of boutique hotels will enable trade bodies and relevant associations to revise their grading systems, better serving the hotel industry, as well as business and leisure travellers.Originality/valueThis paper aims to give credibility to the sector so that not any hotel can claim to be boutique, as specific characteristics have to be fulfilled.