National Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, celebrated on February 23, was created by Food Service Direct, an online store for chefs and restaurant owners, to honour those in the service industry who work tirelessly to provide the highest level of comfort and luxury. Incorrectly, the hospitality industry is frequently confused with the hotel industry. The second is a subset of the first. The hospitality industry encompasses hotels, restaurants, bars, amusement parks, and more. The presentation, originality, entertainment, and quality of these establishments are all a result of their hospitality employees; therefore, we are honouring them today.
The background of National Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day
The word hospitality derives from the French word ‘hospitalité’, which means “care for travellers.” During their travels, travellers were frequently invited to rest at the homes of locals. Prior to the monasteries deciding to construct proper sleeping accommodations, they slept on the floor. This is how lodging services were created. Inns began operating in the late 1700s, providing travellers with shelter and food. Additionally, horses and carriages were cared for. This was when the hospitality industry began to take shape. Eventually, elements of luxury and contemporary amenities began to emerge. This resulted in the development of hotels with luxurious rooms and dining areas. 1829 was a pivotal year for the American hospitality industry. In this year, American architect Isaiah Rogers built the Tremont Hotel in Boston, Massachusetts, the city’s first luxury hotel.
Modern bars, restaurants, hotels, and inns depend heavily on hospitality workers for their success. Indeed, the service provided by hospitality employees can make or break the experience and is a crucial determinant of the business’s quality and standard. As the backbone of the hospitality industry, it is unfortunate that hospitality workers are frequently overworked and underpaid despite deserving greater recognition.
Due to the demanding nature of the hospitality industry, employees frequently experience stress, psychological exhaustion, and burnout. Hospitality workers primarily interact directly with customers, meet their needs, communicate and work behind the scenes, and maintain efficiency and quality. Their diligence and positive attitude contribute to a satisfying experience.
On National Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, unions, trade associations, and other organisations collaborate to improve the industry for hospitality workers.
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NATIONAL HOSPITALITY WORKERS APPRECIATION DAY ACTIVITIES
Express your gratitude
If you have received or been served exceptionally well by a hospitality worker, be sure to tip them generously and express your gratitude verbally.
Give them a half-day break
Those who work in the hospitality industry should receive a half-day off today. If you cannot accommodate all of them today, schedule their half day for another day.
Enjoy the Happy Hour
Hospitality employees participate in Happy Hour less frequently than other employees. Celebrate their accomplishments with Happy Hour!
5 FUN FACTS ABOUT THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR
As of November 2021, the leisure and hospitality industry is the lowest-paying industry.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average hourly wage for hospitality workers is $19.20.
Over half of the top 10 tallest hotels in the world are located in Dubai.
10% of the global labour force is employed in the tourism sector.
To attract new talent, wages now account for 25% of the total revenue in the hospitality industry.
NATIONAL HOSPITALITY WORKERS APPRECIATION DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | February 23 | Thursday |
2024 | February 23 | Friday |
2025 | February 23 | Sunday |
2026 | February 23 | Monday |
2027 | February 23 | Tuesday |