Lighting influences energy bills, upkeep, and guest spend. This post offers a straightforward ROI model for hospitality operators—useful during concept development and board approvals.
The ROI Model
1) Energy Savings — Efficient sources and dimmed scenes reduce consumption; daypart scheduling prevents waste during off‑peak hours.
2) Maintenance Savings — Quality drivers/optics last longer; standardized parts simplify replacements; documented cleaning extends finish life. Providers with on‑site replacement warranty and free 5‑year maintenance reduce unplanned costs and downtime.
3) Revenue Uplift — Lunch vs. dinner scenes shape dwell time and perceived value; accents at bar and dessert stations encourage add‑ons; comfortable visibility reduces service errors and speeds table turns.
4) Putting It Together — Estimate annual kWh before/after controls; add avoided maintenance (parts + labor + lost covers); quantify uplift; Payback = (Energy + Maintenance + Uplift gains) / Project Cost.
How to Present ROI to Stakeholders
Show a base case vs. enhanced case. Visualize results with a one‑page dashboard; track actuals three months post‑opening; re‑commission to maintain gains.
Conclusion
When lighting is treated as a performance system, ROI comes from multiple levers—not just energy. Controls, supervision, and aftercare protect those gains over time.
Key Takeaways
- ROI blends energy, maintenance, and sales uplift.
- Lock scenes and maintain aiming to protect payback.
- Use a simple dashboard to track real results.
FAQs
Q: Are ROI gains guaranteed?
A: No—tie assumptions to real service patterns and revisit after opening.
Q: How do I estimate sales uplift credibly?
A: Pilot controlled changes and measure ticket size and dwell.
Q: Does maintenance really move the needle?
A: Yes—fast on‑site replacements and seasonal re‑aims prevent ambience drift and revenue loss.
