Vol. 4 No. 1 (2024): Enhancing Regional Resilience: The Role of Hospitality Services in Sustaining Communities

Scope of the Special Issue:

The hospitality industry is a cornerstone of global economies, with its roots extending back to the ancient civilizations of the Greeks and Romans. This multifaceted sector encompasses a wide array of services, including food and beverage, accommodation, recreation, and travel, each contributing significantly to the overall economic landscape. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, in 2022, the travel and tourism sector, heavily driven by hospitality services, accounted for 7.6% of the global GDP and created 22 million new jobs. The United Nations World Tourism Organization reported that in the first quarter of 2023, an estimated 235 million international travelers were recorded, underscoring the sector's vast reach and impact.

Despite its critical role, the hospitality industry faces numerous challenges, including economic fluctuations, labor shortages, and the growing need for sustainability and environmental responsibility. Additionally, the industry must navigate changing consumer trends, technological advancements, and the complexities of global supply chains, all while ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining high standards of health, safety, and accessibility.

As the industry confronts these challenges, its future will increasingly depend on the ability to innovate and adapt. Resilience in the hospitality sector is not only about weathering economic storms but also about fostering local collaborations and partnerships that can bolster community strength, particularly in times of crisis. The resilience of communities is closely tied to the ability of hospitality services to withstand shocks, adapt to changes, and recover from disruptions.

The future of the hospitality industry will also hinge on its commitment to supporting local economies, promoting sustainable practices, and embracing corporate social responsibility. By reshaping concepts like staycations and focusing on local supply chains, the industry can play a pivotal role in sustaining and revitalizing communities. The enduring value of hospitality services lies in their capacity to provide meaningful experiences while contributing positively to the social and economic fabric of the regions they serve.

Meet the Special Issue Editor:

This special issue is edited by Associate Professor Josephine Pryce, a scholar of Organisational Behaviour with a keen interest in ‘the nature of work’ and a longstanding interest in the ontology and epistemology of hospitality. Building on her PhD work, Josephine has maintained a research and literary focus on the influence of organisational and occupational cultures on service delivery, particularly within the hospitality sector. With over a decade of experience in the Hotel Industry, Josephine brings a strong industry background that complements her research, offering a deep understanding of the challenges faced by workers, employers, and organisations in service industries. Her research has expanded the understanding of service predispositions, human relations in the workplace, occupational culture, and the working lives of people.

Associate Professor, Dr, Taha Chaiechi
Editor-in-Chief