721 - Accommodation
When navigating the landscape of government contracting and business classification, NAICS code 721 stands out as a critical designation for companies in the lodging industry. Whether you're a hotel owner, a motel operator, or manage a resort, understanding NAICS 721 is essential for identifying your market sector, qualifying for government contracts, and benchmarking your business size.
What is NAICS Code 721?
NAICS code 721 is titled Accommodation and includes establishments primarily engaged in providing lodging or short-term accommodations for travelers and tourists. This code is part of the broader Accommodation and Food Services sector—a vital segment of the hospitality industry.
Key Characteristics of NAICS 721:
- Focuses on overnight stays and short-term lodging
- Serves travelers, tourists, and temporary residents
- Comprises a wide variety of business types including hotels, motels, inns, and resorts
Sector Overview: Accommodation and Food Services
NAICS code 721 falls under the umbrella of the Accommodation and Food Services sector, which includes everything from lodging to dining establishments. Specifically, the Accommodation sector zeroes in on providing places for guests to stay, making it essential for:
- Tourism industry growth
- Business travel accommodations
- Leisure and vacation lodging
Typical Business Activities under NAICS 721:
- Hotels: Full-service establishments offering various amenities for overnight guests.
- Motels: Usually smaller facilities located near highways, catering to motorists.
- Resorts: Lodging enterprises with extensive recreational facilities and amenities.
NAICS 721 Size Standards for Eligibility
To qualify as a small business under NAICS code 721, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) typically defines size standards based on the number of employees or average annual receipts, helping determine eligibility for federal contracts.
- Size Standard: Typically, accommodations business qualify as small businesses if they have 1,500 employees or fewer.
- This size standard may vary slightly based on specific subcategories or government contracting requirements.
Understanding these thresholds is crucial when bidding on government contracts or seeking certifications like Small Business or Disadvantaged Business status.
Examples of Businesses Classified Under NAICS 721
Here’s a list illustrating typical enterprises that fit under NAICS 721:
- Marriott International (Hotels)
- Motel 6 (Motels)
- Four Seasons Resorts (Resorts)
- Holiday Inn Express
- Local inns and boutique hotels catering to travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about NAICS Code 721
Q1: Can Airbnb and vacation rentals fall under NAICS code 721?
A: Yes, certain short-term rental platforms and vacation rental management companies may fall under NAICS 721 if their primary business activity involves providing lodging for short periods.
Q2: Does NAICS 721 include campgrounds or RV parks?
A: No, campgrounds and RV parks typically fall under a different NAICS code (like 721211 for RV parks and recreational camps).
Q3: How do I find my NAICS code for government contracting?
A: You can search for your business classification on the NAICS website or use the SBA’s resources to find the appropriate code matching your principal business activity.
Q4: Are there other related NAICS codes within the Accommodation and Food Services sector?
A: Yes, related NAICS codes include 722 (Food Services and Drinking Places) and other subcategories of 721, which cover more specific types of lodging or accommodation services.
Final Thoughts
NAICS code 721 plays a pivotal role in identifying businesses involved in accommodation services. Whether you manage a boutique hotel, a large resort, or a chain of motels, understanding the precise NAICS classification empowers you to:
- Access government contracting opportunities
- Comply with industry regulations
- Improve marketing and business intelligence efforts
By staying informed about NAICS 721 and its size standards, your accommodation business stands better positioned to thrive within the competitive hospitality industry.
Keywords: NAICS code 721, Accommodation NAICS code, lodging businesses, hotels, motels, resorts, government contracts, small business size standards, hospitality industry, travel accommodations.
