BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
We’ve not been short of press releases centring on the UK Grand Depart – this one has implications for the cycle tourism industry post-Tour de France.
Premier Inn hotels saw a 67% surge in cycle bookings due to the Tour, the brand has claimed. According to the chain, which has over 650 hotels, Premier Inn Leeds City Centre took over 150 bike related enquiries just three days after Le Tour rode through the city.
Many of the hotels along the route, including Premier Inn’s Harrogate, saw a 45% rise in reservation calls to bring bikes into the hotel and these enquiries are continuing to increase, we’re told. In London, where Stage 3 finished, Premier Inn sites saw a 56% increase in bicycle booking enquiries.
The reservations team at Premier Inn County Hall has had such a high level of reservations that they are now considering setting up a dedicated line to handle cycling specific room bookings.
A spokesperson said: "Considering the incredible fanfare that surrounded the Tour de France’s UK starting point, it’s little surprise people are attempting to follow in the footsteps of their cycling heroes. It’s excellent to see such a prestigious event inspiring the UK to get in the saddle and at Premier Inn we welcome people who want to bring their bikes along and make the most of the UK and its superb attractions."
Premier Inn’s bicycle policy allows guests to bring their bikes into the hotel for the night.
