Innovative approaches and digital technologies in hotel and restaurant business management in Ukraine under contemporary challenges

Abstract

The hotel and restaurant industry (also known as hospitality industry, HoReCa sector (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafés) is one of the most dynamic sectors of the economy, which is undergoing dynamic changes under the influence of globalization, digitalization, and contemporary challenges such as economic uncertainty, geopolitical crises, and rising customer expectations. At the same time, it is also one of the most labour consuming industries involving a great variety of different specialist who cannot be replaced by automation due to the nature of the tasks performed (gourmet cuisine, VIP service, hotel rooms cleaning etc.). However, in the contemporary world, effective management of hotel and restaurant enterprises requires the integration of cutting-edge technologies, new tools, and personalized service strategies to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience. For Ukraine, the relevance of these advancements has significantly increased due to the ongoing war, which has reshaped the hospitality industry in multiple ways. Under such conditions, the implementation of innovative approaches and digital technologies in hospitality management is no longer optional – it is a critical factor for survival, adaptation, and sustainable development. Thus, the purpose of the given chapter is to analyse the contemporary state of the hotel and restaurant industry in Ukraine and to highlight the novel solutions that have been stimulated by the preceding coronavirus restrictions and continuing hostilities.