Although spas probably will not resort
to overbooking when traffic is strong, they
might want to investigate a voluntary rescheduling
approach. The key to a successful
overbooking policy is to obtain accurate
information on no-shows, cancellations, and
walk-in guests to set levels of overbooking
that maintain an acceptable level of customer
service. Voluntary rescheduling, already in
use by some upscale spas, requires similar
knowledge of use patterns. A voluntary
rescheduling approach takes effect when
managers believe that they will be oversold.
The spa offers a consideration to patrons
willing to switch their treatment to a slower
time. A call far in advance to customers who
have reservations at the congested time with
the offer of a discounted, upgraded, and
added service, or free treatment for switching
to an open period, could increase customer
good will and increase profit. While displacing
customers can make them angry, making