What should Indian tourism and hospitality managers focus on to stay competitive in the coming decade?

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to summarize and review the key areas of importance that will drive a paradigm shift over the next decade in the Indian tourism and hospitality industry. Design/methodology/approach This paper identifies important issues from the findings and managerial implications as identified by the contributors to the theme issue: What should Indian tourism and hospitality managers focus on to stay competitive in the coming decade? Findings This theme issue has brought to light some interesting factors that are going to dominate the industry in the near future. These factors are: the role of social media in how businesses will operate in the near future; information technology applications as influencers of profitability; the evolution of risk management techniques; differentiated valuation models; innovative ways to retain talent; and remodelling education at higher educational institutions offering hospitality education. Practical implications In an era of tough completion and disruptive innovations, the tourism and hospitality industry will need to be proactive rather than reactive to the anticipated changes that are going to take place over next ten years. These changes will be very useful to domestic and foreign operators, as they consider the key issues that will impact on the Indian context over the next ten years. Originality/value This theme issue and, in particular, this concluding paper bring together important findings related to the issues of importance that are shaping a paradigm shift in the way tourism and hospitality businesses operate. Building upon viewpoints and perspectives of practitioners in the tourism and hospitality industry, these findings are unique and contemporary as compared to any other published source. This will be a significant contribution to the field of research relating to the Indian hospitality and tourism industry.