Jamesons hotel group prepares published accounts on a quarterly basis. The senior management is reviewing the performance of one of the hotels in the group and making plans for 2018/19. They have in front of them the results for 2017/18 (based on actual results for the first two quarters and forecasts to the end of the year).

Quarter Sales Profit/(loss) 1 400,000 (280,000)

2 1,200,000 360,000

3 1,600,000 680,000

4 800,000 40,000

The total estimated number of visitors (guest nights) for 2017/18 is 50,000. The results follow a regular pattern, with no unexpected cost fluctuations beyond the seasonal trading pattern. Management intend to add to their plans for 2018/19 an anticipated increase in unit variable costs of 10% and a profit target for the hotel of $1 million.

Required: (a) Determine the total variable and total fixed costs of the hotel for 2017/18, by using both a PV chart and by calculation. (b) i. If there is no increase in visitors for 2018/19, what will be the required revenue rate per hotel visitor to meet the profit target? ii. If the required revenue rate per visitor is not raised above the 2018/19 level, how many visitors are required to meet the profit target? (c) Outline and briefly discuss the assumptions underlying the accountants typical PV or break-even analysis and assess whether they limit its usefulness. Note: In order to achieve full marks for this question it is essential that you fully explain what you are doing, why you are doing it and the steps involved in providing a final solution. Ensure your answer is not just a set of calculations as 25% of the marks for this question are set aside for your explanation.