Following the pandemic, lockdowns and work-from-home routines resulted in a nightmare for many sectors of the economy, the hospitality sector is no exception. The Pandemic reveals some of the weaknesses of global tourism and academia more generally in terms of curricula and has pointed out that most of the training methods, techniques, pedagogies, and subject areas may change in times of crisis in order to better prepare for response and recovery policies, strategies, and research.

According to Sahil Sambhi, Managing Partner, Yuvi Group, “the COVID-19 Pandemic, has brought the hospitality industry to a near-standstill, and with repeated waves hitting us it has devastated a lot of businesses and lives of people. No one is sure when covid strikes back and starts to create havoc again.”

Speaking about the fourth wave which is speculated to hit, he said, “we have our fingers crossed, though deep down we have accepted the world will never be the same and are moving forward with this in mind.”

“We are always excited and happy to bring the best of food and nightlife for our guests but as the fourth wave is just about to hit, we have internally made a few changes like we have a staff rotation policy so that we don’t have to sack anyone and all employees have a safe and secure job throughout the year. Not just this, we have started saving funds to sustain during the lean period during covid, and this time we are more active towards our stocks which are ordered in lesser quantities to ensure there is no wastage and spoilage. Although, No matter how much you prepare yourself, COVID brings losses that take the rest of the year to be recovered. But this time we are more cautious about how to deal with the pandemic yet offering the best of our services.” he added.

Here are some strategies that the hospitality sector is adopting in order to adhere to the new world order.

Cost Control Efficiencies

Many restaurants shut shop when the controls are not in place. Only when the frontend and backend are well integrated, can it function efficiently and profitably.

Local Produce

Going for local produce eliminates storage costs, reduces wastage, and sustains the neighbourhood farming community. OMO Cafe lives by this belief.

Vegetarianism

The Woke Generation respects all life forms and believes in peaceful co-existence. Vegetarianism is a great way to nourish the body, mind, and soul ethically.

Brand Experience

Experiential brands imprint happy memories. The GT Road brings history alive, Ikk Panjab celebrates the lost recipes of an undivided Panjab while AM.PM. is the music buff’s hangout.

Meeting Spaces

Youngsters love spaces that enable them to network, interact and enjoy life while working. Cafes and bars are the workspaces of the future.

The hospitality industry needs to wake up and smell the coffee!

(Inputs provided by Mr. Rajan Sethi Founder and Managing Director, Bright Hospitality Pvt Ltd)