Advertising on WhatsApp?

WhatsApp is going to have advertising. And this changes the conversation a lot about what WhatsApp is for a hotel.

The news

Meta announced it's testing advertising formats integrated within WhatsApp. They're not ads in the chat—that doesn't change. They're formats in the "Updates" section (the statuses) and in the channels listing.

For hotels, this opens up a concrete possibility: reaching travelers within the platform where they're already having conversations, before they even look for you.

WhatsApp isn't just customer service: it's strategy

There's a wrong way to think about WhatsApp: as a reactive channel where you respond when someone messages you.

The right way: as part of your marketing and sales strategy.

• Reactivation campaigns: contacting past guests and offering them a personalized proposal.
• Post-stay follow-up: asking for a review, offering a discount for their next visit.
• Proactive communication: informing guests about availability on special dates before they start looking elsewhere.

Real case: Fernando Martinez, FMA Colivings

We spoke with Fernando Martinez, of FMA Colivings, who uses WhatsApp as his main sales channel. His assessment of WeSpeak: "We believe it's the future."

He doesn't say it in the abstract. He says it because he saw the numbers: more inquiries answered, more conversions, a more focused team.

The question is no longer whether WhatsApp is a serious channel. It's how to make the most of it.

— Gonzalo Rioja