COLORADO SPRINGS — The Broadmoor hotel is trying a new tactic to combat the sinking economy and lure gun-shy event planners: It lives up to its five-star reputation or your money back.
Money-back guarantees are commonplace in many businesses but unheard of when it comes to high-priced resorts. “This is a very simple proposition: We perform or you don’t pay,” said Broadmoor marketing vice president John Washko.
Bookings for the luxury resort are down 20 percent this year, Washko said, and it’s not just the lousy economy. Meeting planners have been stung by the negative publicity around corporate retreats to Las Vegas and other trendy locales. There are a couple of caveats for the guarantee: It’s based on evaluations by participants — you can’t just say you didn’t like the drapes and ask for a refund. And it’s only for large meetings, involving 50 or more rooms for at least two nights. Andrew Wineke, The (Colorado Springs) Gazette
