Your welcome hamper and the law
Making sure you’re legally compliant while providing a great welcome.
My welcome hamper is mentioned in a large proportion of my reviews; it makes guests feel special and helps us and them celebrate the local area and their stay. (Somewhat infuriating they don’t pay the same attention to the bathroom tiling I spent so long grouting or the underfloor heating that cost an arm and a leg but ho hum!)
The contents of your welcome hamper will depend on your location and the trips your place is suited to.
My place @thesnugatcaphays is remote and it’s hard to get a loaf of bread or pint of milk past 8pm here. Most guests come for leisure and to explore Dorset.
Because of that, we provide a full hamper of practical and treat items which are locally sourced to tap in to that desire to get to know Dorset.
If you are running an apartment with three supermarkets within a five-minute walk, I suggest leaving nothing beyond the basic cooking and drink making supplies.
You must comply with the law; reference to The Pink Book from Visit England, which runs through your obligations as an accommodation provider, is a good idea before providing anything.
Ask about any allergies or preferences, particularly if you’re providing any milk or bread.
Everything must have a label with a full ingredients list with allergenic ingredients emphasised within it.
To prepare food yourself (homemade bread or biscuits, for example) you must undertake a food hygiene course (not as onerous as it might sound) and register with your local council who can advise you about other measures, such as a kitchen inspection.
Unless you have a licence, you may not offer alcohol as part of your welcome hamper as this constitutes part of the product guests have paid for. You aren’t giving it as a free gift even if it’s a surprise; it is part of the deal. As well as that, the presence of alcohol may not be a welcome one for all guests, and it’s a little more sensitive than it is to ask about an oat/cow milk option.
At all the properties I run, we showcase local produce and support charities too. This is a great way of continuing to foster links with other local businesses, as well as enhancing guest experience.
To see all the detail (including my suppliers) read the post My Welcome Hamper.
Kay x