Sustainability of tourism and hospitality sector in present economic environment

Thursday, 25 December 2014 00:29 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The tourism and hospitality industry has changed considerably since the promotion of Sri Lanka as a preferred tourist destination. The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) had set an overall target of 2.5 million tourist arrivals up to 2016.

The tourism and hospitality sector is, arguably, one of the largest components of the global economy, with a growth rate in consumption that supersedes that of most other goods and services. As a consequence, the profile of tourists is changing as consumers become more experienced, more demanding, and more likely to treat tourism purchases in very much the same way as they do any other item of consumption. Some of the major issues faced by the industry is attracting and retaining talent. With the growing global demand and geographic expansion, the ever-increasing demand for more talent is faced by CEOs. Given the sophistication of international travellers, successful hospitality employees will need to understand how to cater to customers of different cultures. Training and retention of talent will require a significant investment, but it is vital to success. In addition, building customer loyalty in the present environment and the delivering of a differentiated brand experience during this phase of gradual recovery will play an important role in the coming times. While the industry experts appreciate the importance of loyalty programs, only a few have managed to derive significant returns, indicating the need to re- engineer strategic thinking within the industry. To overcome the shortfalls in trained experts to guide this service-oriented sector, Thames College offers courses that are designed to provide managers and researchers with insights into the practical application of tools for gathering and analysing information. These tools can be used in understanding tourism phenomena and in planning responses. The methods presented in the curriculum draw on a variety of disciplinary origins and have application across the range of decision-making contexts that arise in tourism and hospitality. A team of expert lecturers in this sector give students a broad coverage of area whilst focusing on some key specific topics. Application of the techniques taught on a hands-on context. Courses offered are Diploma in Hospitality/Tourism Management, Advanced Diploma in Hospitality/Tourism Management and Postgraduate Diploma in Hospitality and Tourism Management which are tailored to suit both junior and senior professionals in the hotel, travel and airline industries. These qualifications are accepted world-wide and endorsed by leading multinational companies such as Virgin Atlantic, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome, Gordon Ramsay etc.