Winterize your hotel with support from your GPO

As temperatures plummet, be sure to take proactive steps to winterize and protect your property.

Use this blog as a template for best practices when it comes to how your GPO (Group Purchasing Organization) can help you winterize your hotel or resort in addition to saving you money and driving efficiency.

How a GPO can help with winterization

Support from a GPO like Entegra includes access to high-quality products and services tailored to meet your distinct needs. A GPO offers a wide range of Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO), including insulation materials, heating equipment, maintenance services and more.

Communicating with supply chain

During big storms or natural disasters, it is essential to be able to communicate with your vast supply chain network; a GPO does that on your behalf, managing delivery issues and troubleshooting solutions when extreme weather hits.

“On top of supporting operational efficiency, disaster preparedness is something we help our lodging clients with regularly,” says Corinne McElroy, Senior Director, Entegra Client Support. “Not only do we ensure they have the essential products they need, but we also act as the liaison to the supply chain if routine services are disrupted.” Hear more from Corinne on business continuity disaster planning.

10 ways to winterize your hotel property with the help of your GPO

1. Service your snow blowers
   Make sure your equipment is running in top shape before it’s too late. Have a trusted snow removal company available for larger jobs. Entegra’s Local and Direct Program connects our clients with suppliers who are experts in commercial grounds management, including Davey.
2. Order ice melt ahead
   Ice melt shortages aren’t uncommon – get your orders in today.
3. Make winter gear readily available for your staff
   Ensure you have gloves and reflective jackets or vests for the team members who are braving the elements to clear your driveways and walkways. Entegra clients have access to Grainger for gear that ensures their operation runs smoothly and that their staff stays safe.
4. Stock up on shovels, scrapers and flashlights
   Don’t get caught without key snow and ice removal tools. Even if you outsource major snow removal, heavy snowfall may call for frequent walkway clearing by your staff.
5. Eliminate slip and fall risks
   Replace entrance matting and interior rugs to reduce slips and falls. Keep “Wet Floor” signage on hand and make mops readily available to staff to maintain dry flooring. These and more safety essentials are available at negotiated pricing via Cintas Rental.
6. Replace filters
   HVAC system filters should be changed regularly. Let the change of seasons be your catalyst for swapping the old with the new. And be sure to hire a pro for a full HVAC equipment check before you run heat for the first time.
7. Ensure power
   If you don’t have one already, consider investing in a generator. Or, know where you can get a mobile power solution in the event of an emergency.
   Part of Entegra’s Local and Direct program, Entegra clients have direct access to HD Supply who can provide generators and other MRO.
8. Check on the health of your trees
   With fewer leaves on your trees, look to see if they need to be trimmed. It may be handy to have a chainsaw available in case emergency tree branch removal is needed.
9. Keep nourishing essentials on-hand
   Have plenty of water and stock up on non-perishable bulk items in case of a weather emergency or loss of power. Your guests may have to shelter in place with you, be ready to keep them safe and healthy.
10. Be disaster-ready overall
    ​Storms. Fire. Mold. Emergencies happen suddenly, so be prepared. ServPro is a trusted Entegra supplier partner who our lodging clients lean on when they need trusted professionals and a holistic view on cleanup and restoration.

Don't let winter catch you off guard – partner with Entegra to ensure a seamless winterization process for your hotel. Contact us to learn more and get started.

Additional resources:
Download Entegra’s Disaster Preparedness Guide
7 ways to prepare your hotel for the holiday
Learn more about Entegra’s approach to lodging