WORLD EXPERIENCE OF INCLUSION IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY
This article explores inclusivity as a strategic component of service quality enhancement, corporate social responsibility, and competitiveness in the hospitality industry. The concept of inclusivity is examined in a broad context, encompassing not only physical accessibility but also social, cultural, ethical, and digital dimensions of service delivery. The research highlights the importance of developing customer-oriented environments that are comfortable, safe, and welcoming for all clients-regardless of their physical abilities, sensory impairments, cognitive differences, age, gender identity, or cultural background. The study analyzes international best practices from the United States, Canada, Sweden, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates. It investigates legal frameworks (e.g., ADA, Accessible Canada Act), public strategies (e.g., Dubai Disability Strategy, Swedish Agency for Participation), and corporate initiatives implemented by major hospitality networks such as Marriott, Scandic Hotels, Fairmont, and Atlantis The Palm. These cases demonstrate how inclusivity contributes to brand reputation, customer loyalty, and market expansion. Particular attention is given to the Ukrainian context, where inclusivity is still implemented inconsistently due to regulatory gaps, limited funding, outdated infrastructure, and insufficient staff training. Despite these challenges, examples from Ribas Hotels Group, Reikartz Hotels, and the "Hospitality Without Barriers" initiative reveal positive trends and practical steps toward accessible and inclusive service provision. The article concludes that the integration of inclusive practices must be systemic, involving impact investment, state support, public-private partnerships, and mandatory training for hospitality professionals. Inclusivity is not only an ethical imperative but a critical factor in the sustainable development of the global hospitality sector and the formation of a new culture of interaction in service environments
Authors
- Наталія Барвінок (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6661-4780)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Economies Horizons
- Published
- 2025-08-28
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.31499/2616-5236.3(32).2025.338687
- Primary Topic
- Global Healthcare and Medical Tourism
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00