How Vision and Adaptability Turned Andrew Llewellyn into a Hospitality Innovator
Located on the edge of Germantown, within walking distance of downtown Louisville, the Swepson Guesthouse stands as a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability. This boutique hotel, accommodating up to 42 guests, is not just a place to stay; it’s the culmination of Andrew Llewellyn’s remarkable journey from a would-be baker to a hospitality innovator.
Llewellyn, the CEO and founder of Super Stays, didn’t set out to revolutionize group accommodations in Louisville. His initial vision was far different: expanding a wholesale bakery business. However, when faced with unexpected costs and zoning challenges, Llewellyn didn’t crumble under pressure. Instead, he rose to the occasion, proving that the ingredients for success sometimes come from the most unexpected places.
Market Insight: The Key Ingredient
“I saw an opportunity in the market that nobody else was addressing,” Llewellyn explains. His market research revealed a gap in Louisville’s hospitality sector – a lack of accommodations for large groups in the downtown area. This insight led to a complete pivot in his business strategy.
Llewellyn’s instincts were spot on. Recent data from AirDNA shows that Louisville’s short-term rental market is thriving:
• The city boasts 4,048 active listings, a 3% increase from the previous year.
• The average annual revenue for a short-term rental in Louisville is $23,000, up 3% year-over-year.
• Occupancy rates average 50%, a 4% increase from the previous year.
The Swepson Guesthouse: A 120-Year-Old Canvas
Super Stays Includes Meeting Areas
Transforming a 10,000-square-foot former office building into the Swepson Guesthouse was no small feat. With an investment of $1.5 million, sourced from a mix of personal savings, investors, and bank loans, Llewellyn embarked on an 18-month journey of renovation and reinvention.
The building itself has a rich history, dating back over 120 years. Initially constructed in 1909 as a two-story structure, it has housed everything from a Piggly Wiggly grocery store to a dental office and hardware store. A third floor was added in the 1960s, and 2021, Llewellyn saw its potential as a unique short-term rental property.
The result? A unique space featuring 15 bedrooms with 21 beds, large common areas, and a couple full kitchens – all designed to cater to corporate retreats, wedding parties, and family reunions. “We’re not just offering a place to sleep,” Llewellyn states. “We’re creating experiences.”
Experience-Driven Approach: The Secret Sauce
This experience-driven approach is at the core of Swepson Guesthouse’s success. Llewellyn and his team offer custom itineraries and concierge services, partnering with local businesses to provide guests with an authentic taste of Louisville. Each stay is tailored to the group’s interests, from bourbon tastings to urban adventures.
This strategy aligns well with current market trends. According to Airbtics:
- The average daily rate for short-term rentals in Louisville is $144.
- A typical host in Louisville earns around $29,000 annually.
- The city sees an average occupancy rate of 58%, with listings typically booked for 212 nights per year.
Overcoming Challenges: A Recipe for Resilience
Super Stays Includes 5 full kitchens and plenty of space
The path to success wasn’t without its challenges. Llewellyn had to navigate complex city zoning requirements for short-term rentals, manage construction delays, and later adapt to the seismic shifts in travel patterns brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, he demonstrated the same flexibility at each turn that led to his initial pivot.
Marketing in the Digital Age: Spreading the Word
Llewellyn’s marketing strategy is as innovative as his business model. Leveraging a strong online presence, partnerships with local event planners, and word-of-mouth, he’s created a buzz around Swepson Guesthouse that extends far beyond Louisville.
This approach is crucial in a competitive market. Louisville currently has 2,438 active Airbnb listings, with 91% being entire home rentals. Standing out in this crowded field requires a unique value proposition and strong marketing efforts.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: The Llewellyn Playbook
For aspiring investors and entrepreneurs, Llewellyn’s journey offers valuable lessons. “Be prepared to adapt,” he advises. “Your initial plan might not be your final destination, but every step is part of the journey.”
His success underscores the importance of thorough market research and identifying underserved niches. In Louisville’s case, the focus on ample group accommodations has proven to be a winning strategy.
The Future: Rising Like Yeast
Andrew Llewellyn & his Swepson Guesthouse
As the Swepson Guesthouse thrives, it stands as a beacon for innovative thinking in commercial real estate. From an abandoned office space to a bustling boutique hotel, it’s a story of transformation – not just of a building, but of a vision.
Andrew Llewellyn’s tale is more than just a success story; it’s a masterclass in entrepreneurial agility. In a world where the only constant is change, his journey reminds us that sometimes, the most successful businesses are born not from rigid plans but from the ability to rise to unexpected challenges and seize hidden opportunities.
With Louisville’s short-term rental market showing strong growth and the unique positioning of the Swepson Guesthouse, Llewellyn’s venture seems poised for continued success. It’s a testament to the power of vision, adaptability, and the sweet taste of entrepreneurial success.
Make Your Next Event Unforgettable
Choosing Louisville, Kentucky, for your corporate incentive travel opens doors to a wealth of experiences that can inspire and reward your team. With Super Stays as your partner, you can rest assured that every detail will be handled with care and professionalism, delivering an unforgettable experience that aligns with your company’s goals.
Contact Us Today
Ready to start planning your corporate incentive travel? Contact Super Stays to discover how we can create a bespoke program that celebrates your team’s success and propels your company forward.
Email: frontdesk@superstaysstr.com
Phone: (502) 208 – 8915
Website: www.superstaysstr.com
At Super Stays, we’re more than just a place to stay—we’re a partner in creating experiences that matter. Let us help you unlock the full potential of your corporate incentive travel in Louisville, Kentucky.
