Wednesday | 15 January 2025 | Reg No- 06
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Wednesday | 15 January 2025 | Epaper

Bangladesh’s hospitality sector set for growth 

Published : Tuesday, 17 December, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 1312
Md Shakawath Hossain
In a rapidly evolving global economy, the hospitality sector stands out as a beacon of opportunity, particularly in Bangladesh. As the Chief Executive Officer of Unique Hotel & Resorts which operates the prestigious Westin and Sheraton hotels, my guiding philosophy hinges on the principle of service excellence-a fundamental tenet that drives every interaction in our industry. However, my vision extends beyond the walls of my hotels. I believe in harnessing the untapped potential of our nation's tourism assets, which promise not only economic growth but also a rich cultural renaissance.

Service excellence encompasses various dimensions-quality food, safety, cleanliness, customer and staff feedback, and a keen focus on sustainability. The core of my academic journey, with an MPhil on customer service determinants and pursuing a PhD emphasizing service excellence, has equipped me with valuable insights that translate into actionable business strategies. My primary goal is straightforward: to deliver the best service possible while fostering customer loyalty. However, this objective can only be achieved by recognizing and addressing the broader challenges that beset the hospitality industry in Bangladesh.

Despite it being a crucial sector with immense potential, the hospitality industry currently contributes a mere 4 percent to our GDP-a disheartening figure when compared to developed nations that acknowledge the hospitality business as a key industry. To follow suit, we require a skilled workforce, robust investor engagement, and a supportive regulatory framework. Unfortunately, our current political landscape has not prioritized these necessary interventions. The conspicuous absence of government communication regarding our industry's status contrasts sharply with the collaborative spirit essential for nurturing tourism into a viable economic pillar.

One significant opportunity lies in our villages-68,000 beautiful and culturally rich locales. These areas hold immense potential for vibrant village tourism, offering experiences that reflect our rich cultural tapestry. Initiatives such as the floating guava market in Pirojpur, watermelon farms in Bhola, and mango orchards in Rajshahi can be showcased to attract both domestic and international tourists. By supporting grassroots entrepreneurs with seed funding and necessary infrastructure, we can cultivate a thriving tourism ecosystem that complements our urban hospitality efforts.

The interim government, under the leadership of figures like Professor Muhammad Yunus, could serve as a global ambassador for Bangladesh's tourism potential. An international campaign inviting the world to "Visit Bangladesh, Explore Bangladesh" would emphasize our stunning landscapes, unique cultures, and historical sites, eventually leading to substantial economic benefits.

“The interim government, under the leadership of figures like Professor Muhammad Yunus, could serve as a global ambassador for Bangladesh's tourism potentials”

Currently, the hospitality landscape that I manage primarily thrives on business tourism. Many guests are drawn to the region for work-related purposes, yet we also notice the capacity for leisure tourism growing slowly but steadily. Seasonal fluctuations in occupancy reflect broader trends, while the recent political instability has exacerbated these issues, resulting in a significant drop in bookings-from occupancy rates below 10 percent post-August to a concerning decline in overall tourist numbers.

A significant contributing factor to this downturn lies in travel advisories stemming from past political and social incidents, which have deterred foreign visitors and further strained the industry. Moving forward, enhancing collaboration between the government, law enforcement, and hospitality stakeholders is crucial. We must create a palpable sense of security that invites foreign travelers to explore the hidden gems of our beautiful country.

Furthermore, investment in infrastructure-particularly in transportation-will facilitate easier access to tourist attractions, promoting the growth of both leisure and business travel. Expanding road networks and improving air connectivity can significantly enhance the overall travel experience and accessibility for visitors, encouraging them to explore beyond urban centers.

Moreover, addressing the rising operational costs is essential for ensuring the sustainability and viability of our hospitality ventures. Factors such as inflation, escalating construction expenses, and recent crises-including the dollar crisis and the economic fallout from COVID-19-have created significant pressure on both staff welfare and operational viability. As an industry, we must prioritize our employees' mental and physical health, fostering a supportive work environment to reduce turnover and create a motivated workforce. By investing in training programs and employee well-being, we can cultivate a culture of service excellence that extends to our guests.

In conclusion, the hospitality industry in Bangladesh stands at a critical crossroads. The opportunities are ripe for cultivation, yet substantial barriers must be addressed to foster an environment conducive to growth. With a shared vision and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders-government representatives, investors, and industry professionals-we can transform tourism from a budding sector into a robust pillar of the economy. By achieving this, we will not only diversify our economic landscape but also fulfill the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that occupy a central place within our national priorities.

We aspire to move toward a future where Bangladesh is not merely a venue for business but also a magnificent destination that resonates with travelers worldwide. The path is clear; the time for action is now, and together, we can elevate the hospitality sector, making it a cornerstone of the nation's growth strategy.

The writer is Chief Executive Officer, Unique Hotel & Resorts (Westin and Sheraton)



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