Hospitality Feasibility Report

The results of this study encapsulate a particular snapshot in time. The report (provided by Hunden Strategic Partners) was given in response to local assets, circumstances, and market when study was conducted (December 2022 - January 2023). The study does not take future tourism asset development into account; it is a response to travel needs that currently exist. Major economic downturn, local development of additional tourism assets, or other wide-ranging circumstances would affect the results if the study was conducted again.

• Christian County hospitality demand is growing and could support a local hotel development
  • Current room nights are being lost to Springfield across markets - tourism, corporate travel, sports, events, and more
  • Study evaluated hospitality demand drivers in Christian County and the SWMO region
    • Outdoor recreation and sports create a higher demand in Christian County in spring and summer
  • Study evaluated the Christian County, Springfield, and Branson hospitality markets, including short-term rentals
    • Included performance overview from existing hotel facilities in Christian County
  • Study outlined national mega-trends across the hotel industry

• Five potential sites evaluated
  • Nixa - three properties
  • Ozark - two properties
  • The study’s top recommended site for development was located in Ozark. Both Hwy 160 and Hwy 65 had adequate traffic counts and either community could feasibly support a hospitality development.  

• Financial projections included for suggested facility
  • 95-room select-service+ hotel
  • 4,500 sq ft of divisible meeting space
    • Can be reduced if financing prevents full development
  • 95 parking spaces 

• SWOT Analysis
  • Strengths: 
    • Local demand growth: Sports, entertainment, and event demand drivers within the county
    • Strong traffic along US-65 and US-160
  • Weaknesses: 
    • Limited local demand generators compared to surrounding destination markets
    • Current performance of hospitality assets within the county
  • Opportunities: 
    • Recapture lost hotel demand going to Springfield
    • Limited quality competition
    • Increased local stays and spending
    • New county lodging tax (up to five percent) that can help fund future development
    • Community willingness to incentivize development
  • Threats: 
    • Increased construction costs / interest rates
    • Low market average daily rate (ADR) / occupancy creating higher financing gaps
    • Lack of funding