Monday, July 10, 2023 - In a unique opportunity, students from the CoE Hotel program had the chance to collaborate with industry professionals at the prestigious Grand Mercure Malang Mirama hotel to create demand forecasting strategies. As part of the ongoing CoE Tourism and Hospitality activities, the CoE Hotel class was held at the Grand Mercure Malang Mirama, which is one of the largest multinational hotels under the Accor brand.
The collaboration with Grand Mercure Malang Mirama marks the second partnership between the Management Program and the hotel, as it provides a valuable training ground for CoE students preparing for their future internships in September. During the session, the students received a comprehensive lesson on Service Operational Management from Mr. Sugito Adhi, the General Manager of Grand Mercure Malang Mirama.
The CoE Hotel students not only received theoretical knowledge about the hospitality industry, but also had the opportunity to put their skills into practice. They were assigned the task of creating demand forecasting for each department within the hotel. Divided into four groups, each mentored by managers from different departments such as housekeeping, FnB, marketing communication, and sales, the students were given 45 minutes to develop their respective forecasting strategies.
Demand forecasting encompasses six types, including passive and active demand forecasting, short-term and long-term projections, as well as external micro-forecasting and internal business forecasting. Each group had the freedom to choose the type of demand forecasting that best suited their department's needs.
After the mentoring sessions, each group had the opportunity to present their demand forecasting strategies directly to Mr. Sugito Adhi, the General Manager of Grand Mercure Malang Mirama, as well as the managers of the respective departments. One group had the privilege of presenting their short-term projection demand forecasting strategy in the sales department. The strategy focused on attracting customers during major holidays and events at the hotel by offering enticing promotions. These promotions included not only discounted room rates but also various activities such as trips to Gunung Bromo, new menu offerings, Malang City Tours, and Kids Activities. The short-term projection demand forecasting aimed to attract more families wishing to enjoy their holidays in Malang during these events.
With this collaboration between CoE Hotel students and industry professionals, Grand Mercure Malang Mirama continues to foster a positive learning environment and prepares the students for successful careers in the hospitality industry.
By: Mahesa Athalla Aviananda
