“Building back better”: the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the resilience of the hospitality and tourism industries

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide a critical synthesis of research conducted within the hospitality and tourism industries in response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, identify key perspectives and themes relating to the recovery and resilience of the two sectors and put forward recommendations that help address organizational and consumer behavior changes produced by the pandemic. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a critical reflection approach to identify, select and synthesize relevant research based on which recommendations are drawn. Findings This study offers a contemporary framework discussing three distinct themes that emerged from existing research regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality and tourism industries: management, marketing and consumer behavior. Practical implications This study offers operational, practical and actionable recommendations for organizations about how to adapt and recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic by guiding the industry in sustaining long-term resilience. Originality/value This study provides a critical and current synthesis of selected literature and theory that discuss key implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for the recovery and resilience-building of the hospitality and tourism sectors.