While some hotels have opened their doors to quarantine-weary consumers, not all are operating on full capacity. For those hotels that have explored reopening, having food and beverages available to consumers is key. However, to get consumers to return to their establishments, these restaurants need to stress the importance of health and safety. READ MORE

Hospitality expert and podcast host Amy Draheim brings a unique perspective as a marketing consultant and a restaurant owner. According to Amy, marketing strategy begins at the end result: the guest experience. She suggests that hotel restaurants "think like a food truck"-be flexible, adaptable, streamlined, and when possible, take dining experiences outdoors. Next, harness the power of guest reviews to highlight key features of the new guest experience. When it comes to marketing messaging, hone in on the voice of your brand. Go beyond safety protocols and get personal. Guests are craving more than a great meal-they're longing for connection. READ MORE

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of San Francisco is seeking to help employees who have been laid off, including those in the hospitality industry. In late June, the city's Board of Supervisors passed a new ordinance that guarantees reemployment for certain workers who were laid off, creating a temporary right to reemployment when covered employers seek to hire workers for the same positions previously held by employees who were laid off for COVID-19 reasons. READ MORE

Meliá Koh Samui's general manager Ernesto Osuna outlines how he and his team stayed positive and productive as the global pandemic took hold after celebrating the resort's grand opening on January 10, 2020. From retaining the resort's staff and ensuring 100% of their salaries, helping the community, and introducing stringent safety and hygiene measures, to developing new guest experiences and maintaining strong sales, marketing and public relations efforts. READ MORE

Previous industry research found that staffing and training are one of the biggest challenges of the hospitality industry. The cost of turnover is tremendous and includes the expense incurred in recruiting, hiring, training, and retaining the employee and his/her replacement. Arguably, apprenticeships can help fill the gap in the labor force, get young people out of unemployment, and offer them a list of skills that are transferable to different industries. Apprenticeships are now available at almost every industry, including culinary, and offer several pathways: prep-cook to line-cook, garde manger to kitchen assistant, or craft chef to executive chef. READ MORE