Bavarian Inn Transforms Revenue Strategy with IDeaS

The Story

The Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth, Michigan—a beloved, family-owned resort destination— embarked on a transformative journey to elevate their revenue strategy. Amidst a $90 million property expansion, including the launch of Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark and family fun center, the Bavarian Inn team knew they needed advanced technology to keep pace with rising demand and operational complexity.

Revenue Management Before IDeaS

Before adopting IDeaS’ suite of tools including G3 RMS, Optix, and Function Space Revenue Management (FSRM), Bavarian Inn relied on manual processes that led to reactive rather than strategic decisions.

Previously, multiple reports from the PMS were compiled into an Excel sheet to create a report. Now, using Optix, a template can be saved allowing for easier and more effective data analysis. Time is no longer spent collating data, as it is readily available, enabling faster implementation of strategies and changes compared to the old system.

Additionally, the resort lacked dynamic pricing for its meeting and event spaces, relying instead on static annual rates that didn’t reflect real-time demand.

“We were most definitely leaving dollars on the table and spending far too much time manually adjusting with only slight benefits,” noted general manager Joanna Nelson.

Optix is such a powerful tool for helping analyze data to make more informed decisions. The ability to create report templates is really great. I can easily pull a report and compare timeframes, add in a graph or chart, and present it at a meeting.”

G3 Rms, Optix & Function Space in Action

IDeaS G3 RMS, Optix, and Function Space are transforming Bavarian Inn’s revenue management approach. G3 RMS enables Bavarian Inn’s revenue manager Ruth Eddy to manage by exception, allowing more time for tasks like forecasting and promotional planning. The Opportunity Dashboard in Optix provides a clear and current view of key performance indicators—such as unexpected pickup and near sell-out dates—enabling faster, more informed decisions. Recognizing that optimization shouldn’t stop at guestrooms, Bavarian Inn also implemented IDeaS Function Space Revenue Management. “We used to set event space rates annually without adjustment,” said Nelson, “Now, we make educated decisions based on actual booking trends.” Together, these tools streamline operations, enhance visibility, and empower the team to proactively manage demand, especially during events like the launch of their new waterpark.

I was running multiple reports from our PMS to compile an Excel sheet just to come up with the same report that I can create a template for in Optix. It has really allowed me to look at the data in an easier and more effective way. I am no longer spending time collating the data I need to review, instead I have it readily available and can put strategies and changes into play a lot faster than I would have using my old system.”

Beyond Rooms: Total Property Revenue in Focus

Since automating revenue tasks, Eddy has gained valuable hours back in her day. This efficiency allows her to manage pricing for waterpark tickets, cabanas, and seating alongside room revenue. For her, this level of balance wouldn’t be possible without IDeaS. Eddy highlights that Optix is a powerful tool that enhances her ability to analyze data and make informed decisions. She especially values the customizable report templates, which can be easily shared across the team, as well as the ability to quickly generate reports, compare timeframes, and present clear visuals in meetings.

Results and Conclusion

Following the March waterpark opening, Bavarian Inn achieved record-breaking revenue and occupancy in April, driven by opening demand. G3 RMS’s pricing recommendations ensured that demand—particularly for midweek stays—translated into optimal occupancy and revenue. “Without IDeaS, we might not have been prepared and could have missed potential revenue that we didn’t anticipate,” noted Eddy. Reflecting on Bavarian Inn’s experience, Eddy shares valuable insight for hoteliers weighing the decision to implement IDeaS’ solutions: “As a family-owned resort, we debated for years before committing to an RMS, unsure if it suited us. We were concerned about adapting our team to dynamic pricing and questioned the necessity given our stable finances. Now, after a year with IDeaS optimizing our rates and boosting ADR and RevPAR, we wish we had invested sooner. An RMS initially seemed daunting, but it has provided more control over pricing strategies. It’s definitely worth the investment!