Hop Software, located at Venture Point, Chester, has created an entry-level product called HopLite for small businesses requiring affordable digital tools. The software is intended for venues with one to 15 rooms and removes the requirement for paper-based records. This change is intended to support environmental goals and lower operational costs.
The company was established in 2017 and has grown its client list across four continents, reporting growth of more than 10 per cent in 2025. The firm also opened an office in Cape Town last summer.
Sharon Smith, chief operating officer at Hop, said: “Smaller operators are being forced to choose between outdated manual systems or complex enterprise software designed for hotel chains where they are paying full price for lots of features which are not actually relevant to them. We have listened to that feedback in developing HopLite which gives pubs, smaller hotels and self-caterers the same digital tools used by larger hotels but at a fraction of the price.”
Development of the new system followed industry feedback from smaller operators who found existing options either too old or too complex. According to the 2025 Pub Accommodation Review, one in six UK pubs now provides rooms to diversify their income. However, many owners reported frustration with overly complicated technology.
The product includes a booking engine that does not charge commission, allowing businesses to retain all revenue from direct bookings rather than paying the 15 per cent to 25 per cent fees often charged by travel websites.
Ms Smith continued: “There is a margins crisis in hospitality. This gives smaller operators a system tailored to their needs at a much more affordable price point. Because our Founders are hoteliers, first and foremost, we are seeking to build solutions that deal with the real, everyday problems in hospitality.”
The system provides automated guest communication and reporting alongside integrations with online travel agencies and EPOS providers. It is built for quick implementation with a single click on-boarding process and support available seven days a week. The company aims to reach 100 small operator clients by the end of 2026.
Image source: Hop Software
