Hospitality is a multi-billion dollar industry. Unfortunately, the industry has suffered greatly in 2020 as many businesses have been forced to close. When hospitality businesses have been allowed to open they face an issue with consumer trust. After all, any consumer in the hospitality industry is relying on the supplier to take the appropriate hygiene measures.
Even before COVID-19 hit the industry there were issues regarding fewer people booking holidays and spending money on hospitality. These problems have now been compounded, leaving the hospitality industry facing four serious risks:
1. The Supply Chain
Perhaps the biggest risk facing the hospitality industry is the supply chain. In the first instance, thanks to COVID-19, some businesses have been forced to close permanently. This has changed the dynamic of the supply chain and increased the need for reliable and reputable hospitality supplies.
These are essential as the industry needs to assure customers they are taking hygiene seriously and looking after the environment at the same time.
It’s a difficult balance, all hospitality industry businesses need to ensure they are using premium products that are recyclable or biodegradable.
This will help the business to appeal to travelers both locally and from further afield.
2. Lack Of Customers
A surprising risk for an industry used to turning over billions a year is a lack of customers.
The COVID-19 pandemic has reduced confidence and willingness for people to eat out. It’s essential that businesses take steps to draw the customers back. This may mean discounted meals and promotional products. If the customers can’t be persuaded to return the business simply can’t survive
As more businesses go under the fight for the remaining customers will get dirtier, threatening more businesses with closure.
Restoring confidence and trust is essential to the ongoing survival of the industry.
3. Data Privacy
People are more sensitive than ever about the data held on them. COVID-19 has increased the amount of data that needs to be stored, this ensures compliance with track and trace apps.
However, this also increases the data held by the hospitality industry and the possibility of a data breach. This can cause serious issues for anyone who has their identity stolen.
Businesses in the hospitality sector need to remain focused on eliminating data breaches and other types of identity theft. It’s imperative to the survival of the industry.
4. Staffing Issues
Finally, because the economy will recover there will be more job opportunities for people. This will lead to hospitality staff looking at what else they could be doing. They’ll no longer need the security of their current job and will be able to accept better offers. This can cause an issue unless hospitality businesses take steps to retain the staff they already have.
It’s more than just increasing pay packages. The number of hours, flexibility of those hours, and a variety of perks will help to ensure your staff stays with you. After all, it doesn’t matter how good your sreputation is, you need your staff to give the service that keeps the customers returning.