Back to list September 28, 2021 Tourism and Hospitality Industry Outlook The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all aspects of daily life, and travel, whether for pleasure or business, is no exception. The pandemic has especially affected the tourism, hospitality and travel industries. Everything from lockdowns to shifting consumer spending and behavior has altered both local and international travel. With these recent changes, what is the outlook of the tourism and hospitality industry? Changes to the Tourism and Hospitality Industry As a result of the COVID-19 virus, travel spending plummeted. Whether due to state or international regulations or uncertainty regarding traveling during a pandemic, financial losses and closures for countless businesses happened throughout the United States and the world. Several changes quickly occurred in the tourism and hospitality industry. What worked in the past had to be altered to match the new wants and needs of the market — from social distancing measures to strict cleaning and sanitation standards. As restrictions have started to ease, many in the industry are now facing issues due to difficulty filling staff positions. Many employers are having trouble finding applicants, even as their customer base begins to come back. Moving Forward — The Future of Tourism and Hospitality The future of the tourism and hospitality industry after the COVID-19 pandemic depends a lot on how easily and quickly businesses can adapt to changes in the way consumers live, socialize and spend. Being able to move forward positively requires the industry to consider the following key factors: Health and Safety Procedures: Increased cleanliness and sanitization measures deliver peace of mind and keep travelers safe. Paying particular attention to public areas and frequently touched surfaces during transportation and in hotels minimizes the spread of germs. Digitization: To maintain social distancing, the tourism and hospitality industry can rely on digitization. Using contactless technology to perform tasks like booking a room or paying for airfare helps make travel more safe and convenient. Spending: As a result of economic uncertainty, many travelers opt for staycations and basic travel arrangements. Delivering unforgettable, affordable experiences is essential. Learn More by Registering for Our COVID Economy Series Webinars On October 6 from 9-10 a.m., we invite you to join the Come Back to Cumberland Valley: Economy Series: Tourism & Hospitality webinar. In this Zoom meeting, you’ll learn how the beverage manufacturer industry in Cumberland County was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. You’ll also get an inside look at what these hard-hit businesses and venues are now facing as they try to adapt and recover from the pandemic’s effects. Register today to reserve your free spot in the upcoming webinar. View past webinar recordings on other impacted industries here.
