APPLICATION OF 4Ps: PLACE (DISTRIBUTION)

PLACE (DISTRIBUTION)

        In completing the place (distribution) components of this project, I have examined how Oxalis Homestay distributes their services and the strategies used to reach their target market. Based on the interview that has been conducted with Kak Shaz the owner of Oxalis Homestay, I have identified are several key distribution channels that they used to delivered services to their customers. These include the use of social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok which Kak Shaz used for promotional purposes through photos or videos of the homestay and previous customers feedbacks about the homestay. In addition, Oxalis Homestay also makes bookings via WhatsApp and phone calls which allows customers to interact directly with Kak Shaz the owner of the Oxalis Homestay. Kak Shaz also participated in community tourism programs in introducing Oxalis Homestay to the local visitors.

         From the analysis that have been conducted by our group, I found that those channels that Oxalis Homestay used have successfully attracted the domestics tourists especially families and small groups who want a quiet and peaceful holiday atmosphere. The use of social media had a positive impact in terms of increasing the homestay awareness, while direct booking via WhatsApp has facilitated the communication and build more friendly interactions between customers and owners. However, the effectiveness of those channels still has their own limits especially since Oxalis Homestay is not yet listed on international online booking platforms such as Airbnb, Agoda or Booking.com. This makes Oxalis Homestay less accessible to foreigner tourists and users who are more comfortable using digital booking applications.

      In this regard, I have suggested several of improvement to improve accessibility and customer convenience at Oxalis Homestay. First and foremost, Oxalis Homestay can provide a more systematic booking record systems such as scheduled digital forms. For example, via Google Form + Calendar to organize and track customer bookings more systematically. Furthermore, Kak Shaz also can provide a guest guidebook that contains complete information about the Oxalis Homestay such as accommodation rules, nearby attractions and rebooking guides. This not only helps customers during their stays but also encourages a positive sharing of experiences. Last but not least, Oxalis Homestay can streamline the customer communication system by using WhatsApp Business which allows for automated messages and a service catalog. This would make interactions more professional and faster. With these improvements, Oxalis Homestay not only facilitate customer transactions but also improve the overall service image and add some value to the accommodation experience offered.

          For overall, preparing this component has given me a deeper understanding of the importance of distribution strategy in the homestay business. It also has taught me the need to adapt the distribution approach according to changing tourism trends and current customer needs. With the complete collection of information and the proposal have been formulated, I guarantee that this section can contribute positively to the overall of our project.