The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) has helped several hospitality businesses prepare for South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Summit and over 100 related meetings by offering free grading this month.
“This offer expires on February 28 and businesses are urged to use it to ensure they are ready to welcome guests from all over the world,” says TGCSA Chief Quality Assurance Officer Bronwen Auret.
To register now, please go to: www.tourismgrading.co.za
What is grading?
The Tourism Act of 2014 provides for the TGCSA to oversee the South African national grading system assuring the quality of tourism products, services and facilities.
TGCSA star grading is an official ranking recognised the world over. It is awarded when an independent quality assessment is completed and approved. This helps all travellers know what to expect upfront from establishments (formal and boutique hotels, guest houses, self-catering accommodation, caravan and camping sites, backpackers and hostels, game lodges and nature reserves as well as venues).
Establishments are graded with one to five stars. A one-star grading indicates basic accommodation while assuring guests of health and safety standards, amenities and service levels. A five-star grading provides the same assurance with significantly higher levels of comfort.
“We recognise that travellers require different levels of comfort dependent on their travel purpose. Should a traveller need a short overnight stay for a road trip, a one-star graded property provides peace of mind, health and safety standards and minimum requirements for a comfortable stay,” says Auret.
TGCSA grading criteria are determined by the tourism sector through consultation and understanding consumer requirements. All categories have criteria to suit one to five-star grading and customer requirements.
“Our assessors – accredited by the Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority – are qualified to guide a property through the grading process and provide assurance to the property owner,” says Auret.
Why is it important?
Grading enhances guest confidence by offering a clear, reliable indicator of what to expect. This not only influences booking decisions but also contributes to overall guest satisfaction as expectations are aligned with the experience.
By grading and promoting TGCSA-graded establishments, as an industry, we help our country achieve the highest level of quality assurance, promote optimal value for money and give “customer expectation” the paramount position it deserves.
“It takes a single glance for local and international visitors to recognise your quality and service excellence,” says Auret.
Why do guests appreciate grading?
The grading system complies with stringent core quantitative and qualitative criteria and quality standards, which consider global best practice and industry needs.
“Guests want to know that they are paying for a standard they have procured when they come and experience our destination.
“This way, we become a nation that doesn’t only welcome the world with warm-hearted Sawubonas but one that is absolutely ready to deliver all it has to offer,” says Auret.
How to get graded
Establishments can apply to be graded at www.tourismgrading.co.za. An assessor will spend “a substantial amount of time taking you through the quality standards,” Auret says.
