Stash Hotel Rewards, the loyalty program designed for independent hotels, has doubled its partner network in just two years, growing from 160 to over 320 properties. This rapid expansion reflects Stash’s ability to help independent hotels compete with large chains and reduce reliance on online travel agencies (OTAs), which cut into revenue.
As hotel chains strengthen and OTAs continue to dominate the booking landscape, independent hotels face increasing pressure to stay competitive. Stash provides a solution by offering a robust loyalty program designed to drive direct bookings and foster guest loyalty. “Stash provides independents with a chain-like loyalty program, just without the chain,” said Jeff Low, CEO of Stash Hotel Rewards.
Independent hotels, like Boston’s The Lenox, have seen remarkable success with Stash. “Stash gives guests a reason to book directly with us instead of through OTAs,” said Dan Donahue, President of Saunders Hotel Group, the owner of The Lenox. “Stash guests are our guests.”
Stash points are earned and redeemed across all partner hotels, which span the U.S., Canada, Central America, and the Caribbean. The program is flexible, with no blackout dates and points that never expire. Stash’s partner hotels maintain high standards, with over 90% receiving a 4.5 or 5.0 rating on TripAdvisor – a higher average rating than any set of hotels participating in a major loyalty program. The network includes a diverse range of properties, from boutique hotels to luxury resorts, offering unique experiences.
Stash is also the only hotel loyalty program that’s been proven to work. A study from Cornell University revealed that Stash members stay 50% more often and spend $780 more annually at partner hotels compared to non-members. Another analysis showed that 82% of guests who initially booked through OTAs transitioned to direct bookings after joining Stash. By leveraging Stash’s loyalty program, independent hotels can reduce their dependence on OTAs, retaining more control over their pricing and guest relationships.
Additionally, Stash allows partner hotels to manage redemptions based on demand. Unlike chain loyalty programs, where hotels are typically reimbursed just a fraction of a room’s retail value, Stash partners are compensated in full during redemptions, regardless of occupancy rates. Hoteliers also appreciate Stash’s flexible agreement and the program’s low cost, typically less than 1% the ongoing fees charged by chains such as Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt.
With over 1.2 million members, Stash’s growing base of loyal travelers enjoys exclusive access to special deals, personalized experiences, and member-only rates. The platform provides insights to hotels, enabling them to cater to guest preferences and enhance the overall experience.
