With the spread of the new coronavirus (COVID-19), just about every
country and industry in the world has been impacted, and because the situation
is ongoing, it’s hard to tell what the true global impact will be. Nations and
regions of the world have pulled together to control the spread and people in need,
and institutions and businesses have shown great strength in coming together to
come up with solutions and strategies.
Health is incredibly important, and it should come first, and in any
operations, protecting students, customers and staffers should be the first
priority.
The hospitality and travel industries have been massively affected by
coronavirus and this is taking place on a global scale. This has led to many
concerns, including the job security of all the people who work in events,
restaurants and other industry mainstays. Hospitality businesses are shutting
down in some areas, and this is leading to a lot of worry and concern about
what the next few months are going to look like. The industry as a whole are
facing a period of changes and re-adjustments, here are some of the ways the
industry is adaptive and resilient towards the coronavirus effect.
Cancelled Flights & Slow Down in
Travel Industry Jobs
The airline industry has also been hit hard by a coronavirus, as countries have put travel restrictions in place to the halt global travel, and planes have been grounded. People have also been practising social distancing as a way to curb the spread of the virus. The reduction of flights and travels will have a trickle-down effect on hotels and resorts, which will, in turn, affect the livelihoods of people who work within this space. With flights that are continuing to operate, it is thus important to communicate and reinforce health procedures to guests. Moreover, it is the time when the industry is particularly sensitive and understanding in offering easy re-booking or waivers to guests from affected countries.
Events going Live
Events like music festivals, conferences and sporting events pull in a lot of customers and generate income to many events-related businesses such as retail, restaurants and hotels. One of the first effects of the COVID-19 epidemic is that events have been cancelled or postponed indefinitely. This doesn’t just mean large-scale events like the Olympics, but also smaller gatherings like weddings. Over the past few weeks, a significant number of events have been redesigned to be held virtually – which is probably one of the best alternatives in these unprecedented times. So long as the event is planned out strategically and thoughtfully with a compatible online platform, virtual events attract audience regardless of travel bans, encourage online engagement and might even reach a wider audience with more flexibility around the logistics of attending the event. .
Support for Local Businesses Despite Restaurant
Industry Interruptions
Restaurants across the world have also been dealt a huge blow by the COVID-19 crisis, as many cities and towns have banned sit-in services. In some cities, restaurants have narrowed their operations to collections and deliveries, with employees and delivery couriers being required to disinfect themselves regularly and wear masks. Proper handwashing procedures have been put in place, along with ensuring that all couriers and staff members are wearing gloves. This doesn’t just protect the customer it’s protecting the employee and couriers too. Although cleaning and disinfecting have always been critical in the foodservice industry, the emergence of COVID-19 emphasizes its importance as future guests will expect a higher level of cleanliness.
Moreover, restaurants are looking to online avenues to continue offering their services to the community. Some of them are maximizing delivery option with no-contact drop-off, as well as buy and collect from the shop directly. When it comes to alleviating cash flows, restaurants have turned to online platforms to offer vouchers that require upfront payment to be redeemed in future. This not only will alleviate cash flows, but also helping regular diners to continue to support their favourite business despite COVID-19 bans.
Right now is a very challenging time for our industry and the whole
world, but it’s important that we all support one another. We’re all in this
together, globally, and the world is pulling together so that we can overcome
this global crisis.
In terms of hospitality, studies have also been affected. As a result, Kenvale College has enacted an online education policy to keep our students and staff safe. Learn more about what we’re doing in this crisis to help and protect our people.
