Final answer:
Budget and boutique hotels are most affected by rental sites due to their similar target market for cost-effective and unique accommodations. Independent and mid-range hotels struggle with competition from these sites, which offer home-like experiences and price competitiveness. The hotel industry needs to innovate and differentiate to cope with changing consumer preferences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The types of hotels that are primarily impacted by the competition from rental sites like Airbnb are budget and boutique hotels. This is because these rental platforms offer a range of accommodations that often provide a more personalized, home-like, and cost-effective experience. Independent hotels and smaller chains, in particular, may lack the marketing resources and brand recognition that help larger hotel chains withstand the competition from rental sites.
Rental sites appeal to travelers who desire unique stays, flexibility, price competitiveness, and the feeling of living like a local. Therefore, mid-range hotels that usually offer fewer distinctive features and rely on standardization are also feeling the pressure. They must compete not only on price but also on the uniqueness and quality of the guest experience.
These tendencies suggest a significant shift in consumer preferences and pose a challenge for hotels to innovate and differentiate themselves. While luxury hotels might be less affected due to their specific market segment which prioritizes high-end services and exclusive experiences, it's clear that the hotel industry has to adapt strategically to retain and grow their customer base.