Hotel Labels: How to Get Them and Why?

Hotel labels play a crucial role in the hotel industry by guaranteeing the quality, sustainability and safety of establishments. They are essential for both hotels and consumers.

What is a hotel label?

A hotel label is a certification awarded to a hotel to attest that it meets certain criteria of quality, service, and/or sustainability. These labels are issued by independent bodies or professional associations after a thorough verification process.

Be careful though! Obtaining a hotel label is not a formality but, very often, an investment, as the application for most of these requires paying fees, varying from one label to another.

How do I get a hotel label?

Obtaining a hotel label generally follows several key steps:

1.Application: The hotel submits its application to the organization issuing the label.

2. Audit: A comprehensive audit of the establishment is carried out to verify compliance with the criteria of the label.

3. Report: A detailed report is prepared, outlining strengths and areas for improvement.

4. Award of the label: If the hotel meets the requirements, the label is awarded for a fixed period of time.

5. Monitoring and renewal: Regular audits are carried out to ensure that the hotel continues to respect the standards of the label.

Renewal of Hotel Labels: Audits and Procedures

The renewal of hotel labels is based on audits carried out by private firms, whose recognition varies according to the labels. Audits may or may not be announced, depending on the type of label concerned. For technical labels such as the Ecolabel, prior announcement does not affect the assessment because it is based on specific environmental criteria. On the other hand, for labels evaluating the quality of customer services, mystery visits are more appropriate. In this case, the auditors act incognito.

Quality labels: Guarantee a high level of comfort and service

Tourism Quality Label : A French label guaranteeing a welcome and quality services. This label is awarded for a period of five years, with regular audits to ensure that standards are maintained.

To obtain this label, hotels must meet strict criteria in several areas, such as: 

• The quality of the welcome: the establishment must offer a warm, courteous and personalized welcome. 

• Cleanliness and hygiene: high standards of cleanliness must be maintained in all areas of the hotel. 

• Equipment and comfort: rooms and common areas must be well equipped and offer optimal comfort. 

• The services offered: the hotel must offer a range of services adapted to the needs of customers, such as catering, wellness, and leisure activities. 

An audit is carried out by independent experts to verify compliance with the criteria. If the hotel meets the requirements, the label is awarded for five years, with interim audits to verify ongoing compliance.

Relais & Chateaux : An association bringing together exceptional hotels and restaurants around the world, offering unique and high quality experiences.

Ecological labels: certifying the hotel's commitment to the environment

Green Key/The Green Key : An international ecological label that rewards hotels that respect the environment. It is awarded for a period of one year, renewable after a new evaluation.

Criteria include: 

• Water and energy management: the hotel must implement measures to reduce its water and energy consumption. 

• Waste management: recycling and waste management systems must be put in place. 

Raising customer awareness: the hotel must inform and encourage its customers to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors.

European Ecolabel : An ecological label issued by the European Union to promote products and services that respect the environment. The certification is valid for two years, with regular checks to verify compliance with the criteria.

Requirements include: 

• The use of environmentally friendly products for cleaning and maintenance. 

• The implementation of measures to save water and energy. 

• Reducing the overall environmental impact of the establishment.

Security labels: Ensure that the establishment complies with current safety standards

NF Service certification — Hotel Security : A French label certifying that hotels comply with current safety standards. The certification is awarded for a period of three years, with follow-up audits to verify ongoing compliance.

Criteria include: 

• Compliance with fire safety standards. 

• The presence of safety devices such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and evacuation plans. 

• Staff training in emergency and safety procedures. 

Why are hotel labels important for consumers?

A guarantee of quality and trust

For consumers, hotel labels represent a guarantee of quality and trust. When a hotel has a recognized label, customers can be assured that the establishment meets high standards in terms of comfort, cleanliness and service. These labels ensure that establishments offer exceptional stay experiences, with particular attention to detail. For example, labels like Qualité Tourisme™ and Relais & Châteaux are synonymous with luxury, excellence and high-end services.

A proof of commitment to sustainability

Eco-labels are particularly important for consumers who care about the environment. They allow travelers to choose establishments that reduce their ecological impact, thus promoting more responsible tourism. Labels such as Green Key and European Ecolabel certify that hotels implement sustainable practices, such as the use of renewable energy, efficient waste management, and the reduction of water consumption. This commitment to sustainability helps customers make more ethical and planet-friendly travel decisions.

A Reassurance for Your Hosts to Spend a Peaceful Stay

Security labels play a crucial role, especially for families and business travelers. They ensure that the hotel meets strict safety, fire, and health standards. For example, the Safehotels Alliance label certifies that hotels have implemented enhanced security protocols to protect their customers. Likewise, the NF Service Certification — Hotel Security ensures that establishments adhere to French security standards, thus offering additional peace of mind to travelers.

An incentive for consumers to choose your hotel

Studies show that many consumers are willing to pay more to stay in a certified hotel, because of the guarantee of quality and safety it offers. Hotel labels can therefore significantly influence travelers' purchasing decisions. Consumers perceive these labels as reliable indicators of the value and reliability of establishments, which can be a determining factor when booking a stay.

GetWelcom has also supported numerous hotels in France to highlight the various actions put in place in order to obtain labels.