British holidaymakers are facing an alarming new trend in the hospitality industry – hotels demanding five-star reviews under threat of financial penalties. An investigation has uncovered establishments charging guests up to £100 for leaving anything less than perfect feedback.
The Fine Print That Costs You
Several hotels across the UK have been inserting controversial clauses into their terms and conditions, warning guests that negative online reviews could result in substantial charges. One establishment near Gatwick Airport explicitly stated they would impose a £100 fee for "each and every review" that fails to award them five stars.
Legal Experts Sound the Alarm
Consumer rights organisations have condemned the practice as "outrageous" and potentially illegal. "This is essentially feedback blackmail," explained one legal expert. "Hotels cannot penalise guests for honest opinions – it contravenes basic consumer protection laws."
How the Scam Works
- Guests discover hidden clauses in booking terms
- Hotels monitor review sites like TripAdvisor
- Establishments threaten charges for less-than-perfect scores
- Some attempt to invoice guests after their stay
Industry Backlash and Consumer Advice
The practice has drawn sharp criticism from reputable hotel chains and tourism bodies, who worry it undermines trust in the entire sector. The UK Hotels Association has distanced itself from such tactics, calling them "completely unacceptable."
What should you do if threatened? Consumer rights advocates advise travellers to:
- Check terms and conditions carefully before booking
- Never pay any invoice demanding payment for a review
- Report the establishment to trading standards
- Contact your payment provider if charged unfairly
The Competition and Markets Authority has confirmed it's monitoring the situation, warning that businesses attempting to silence genuine customer feedback could face significant penalties under consumer protection legislation.
