“Why pay for reservation software when you’re closed?”

I get this question all the time. For example, from operators of climbing parks, amusement parks, boat and bike rental companies, and managers of swimming pools and bowling alleys. The question sounds logical, but it’s actually not quite right: “Why should I pay for a reservation system if I’m only open nine months a year?”

Let’s be honest: somewhere in a data center, there’s a server that neatly stores, secures, and keeps your reservations available—day and night, even during the slower months. It’s more than understandable that this costs money. So the question is actually the wrong one.

The right question is: Who's paying?

Because there’s a big difference between reservation software for lodging and for activities. When it comes to lodging, guests have been paying a share of the cost for years. Think of the commission models used by Booking.com and Airbnb. Many business owners view this model as unfair: you’re dependent on platforms that determine your profit margin and are gradually taking over your customer relationships.

Activities can be different. And that’s exactly where I see a shift in the recreation sector: toward a model in which you, as an entrepreneur, pay nothing unless you make a sale. The costs are passed on through a small service fee paid by the guest—a few euros per booking, which is completely standard practice at concerts, festivals, and events.