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Back to the a&o travel tips
2025/03/26
Berlin

ISO 9001 at a&o Hostels: higher quality, better service and more comfort

In today's world, travellers are not just looking for a reasonably priced room in nice accommodation in a good location, but for an unforgettable hotel experience characterised by quality, reliability and service. This is exactly what ISO 9001 certification stands for: it guarantees that a hotel or hostel works systematically to improve its services in order to offer travellers a first-class stay. But what does this mean for you as guests at a&o Hostels?

We are the first hostel chain to be certified to ISO 9001 and place a focus on quality management and the highest standards – our guests can see, experience and feel this for themselves in the more than 40 a&o Hostels throughout Europe. Here we explain the ISO 9001 certification and show you the advantages it brings you.

Read the press release on ISO 9001 in the a&o press area!

 

What is ISO 9001 certification?

ISO 9001 is an internationally recognised standard for quality management systems. It specifies how hostels and hotels must structure their processes in order to guarantee consistently high quality. This not only applies to the actual service, but also to all operational processes, from staff planning and guest care through to complaints management. A hotel or hostel that is ISO 9001 certified is committed to continuous improvement, the highest quality of service and increased customer focus. The a&o Hostels therefore offer you the best possible service!

ISO 9001 Zertifikat​​​​​​

This standard is based on several fundamental principles, including customer focus, the involvement of all employees in the quality process, a structured management approach and the continuous development of internal processes. These measures enable a&o Hostels to ensure that guests feel welcome at all times and that their expectations are not only met, but exceeded.

 

What are the benefits of ISO 9001 certification for our guests?

The certified a&o Hostels work according to international standards and continuously optimise all procedures and processes. But what does this mean for you as our guests? These are the most important benefits you enjoy at a&o Hostels:

1. Consistently high service quality

The a&o Hostels with ISO 9001 certification ensure that the service remains at a consistently high level. This applies not only to reception, but also to room service, catering and other services. Guests can rest assured that they will always receive the best possible comfort and service at a&o Hostels. Thanks to standardised processes, unnecessary delays and misunderstandings are avoided. Whether at room service, at the hotel bar or at reception, our guests receive smooth, fast and friendly service in all a&o Hostels.

2. Structured processes for guest care

A good hotel thrives on outstanding service and the experiences of its guests. The certification optimises processes so that waiting times are minimised, enquiries are processed efficiently and guests are looked after individually. From check-in to room service and check-out, everything runs like clockwork. Our guests can rely on their wishes being professionally recorded and realised. Whether special needs, a special diet or advice on leisure activities – in the certified a&o Hostels, everything runs like clockwork.

3. High standards of safety and hygiene

In times when hygiene and safety are becoming increasingly important, guests can feel safe in the certified a&o Hostels. Strict cleaning protocols, impeccable food hygiene and well-trained staff ensure a carefree stay. Regular safety and hygiene checks ensure the highest standards. You can expect a safe environment where you don't have to worry about cleanliness or health risks, so you can relax carefree in the a&o Hostels.

4. Transparency and trust through standards

ISO 9001 certification requires that all processes are documented and regularly reviewed. Possible complaints are taken seriously and dealt with constructively. Trust is not only promised here, but actively practised. Through certification, you can be sure that a&o Hostels takes your concerns or suggestions for improvement seriously and works continuously on solutions and optimisations.

5. Training and further education

a&o Hostels attaches great importance to the training of all employees. For our guests, this means an even more competent, friendly and professional team that can respond to individual needs at all times. A well-trained team creates a pleasant atmosphere in which you as guests feel welcome and valued. Regular further training ensures that employees are always up-to-date in terms of service quality, customer care and technical processes. This promises better service and a professional hotel experience.

6. Effective complaint management for greater satisfaction

If something does not go according to plan, our guests can be sure that any criticism will be taken seriously and turned into lasting improvements. Well-thought-out complaint management ensures that problems are solved and that every guest feels comfortable. Feedback is processed quickly and professionally so that problems are resolved quickly and satisfactorily.

7. Sustainability and environmental awareness

The ISO 9001-certified a&o Hostels focus on sustainable measures to protect the environment and conserve resources. Our guests experience this in the form of environmentally friendly offers, energy-efficient solutions and sustainable catering concepts. For example, we pay attention to water conservation, waste avoidance and the use of regional products. For guests, this means an environmentally conscious stay with a clear conscience. Find out more about sustainability at a&o Hostels.

 

What does this mean for guests at a&o Hostels?

Behind the scenes, ISO 9001 certification ensures a highly professional management system. However, we are not just starting now, but have been implementing the individual points for some time, so that we are continuously improving – you as our guests will notice this:

  • Fast check-in: Annoying waiting times have been minimised as the processes are perfectly organised, and Web Check-in is possible at a&o Hostels.
  • Best room quality: Whether comfortable private rooms or affordable shared rooms – the modern standards for cleanliness, equipment and maintenance are clearly defined at a&o.
  • Strong customer focus: The guest experience takes centre stage, which is reflected in the first-class service.
  • High-quality catering: Kitchen processes and supplier management are optimised to increase the quality of food and beverages.
  • High level of safety: Clear safety regulations ensure the well-being of guests.

 

The ISO 9001 certification is not only a sign of our quality, but also a promise for continuous improvement of the a&o Hostels. For our guests, this means more comfort, improved service, a more pleasant stay and a constant enhancement of the travelling experience with us. Anyone who places particular value on high standards, excellent service and a trusting environment is in good hands and always welcome in the more than 40 a&o Hostels in Europe. Whether for business travellers who appreciate a smooth process, for adventurous solo travellers, for city tourists on a discovery tour or for families who want to sit back and relax – an ISO 9001-certified a&o Hostel offers you a first-class all-round experience that will make you want to return.

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