Challenges and opportunities in the hospitality industry on islands on the Great Lakes

Exploring how hospitality businesses in remote island communities adapted to unprecedented challenges and built resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic

Carrie Herzog, School of Hospitality & Culinary Arts

About the project

This research examined the experiences of hospitality businesses on islands in the Great Lakes region, with a particular focus on Manitoulin Island. The project explored how businesses responded to pandemic-related disruptions and identified practices that supported resilience and recovery.

The challenge

Hospitality businesses in remote communities faced many of the same challenges experienced across the industry during the pandemic, including labour shortages, supply chain disruptions and reduced customer demand. However, geographic isolation created additional barriers related to staffing, transportation and access to supplies.

Approach

• Examined the experiences of hospitality businesses operating in remote island communities
• Investigated operational, staffing, supply chain and marketing challenges
• Explored how businesses adapted their products, services and delivery methods
• Identified innovative approaches used to respond to changing conditions
• Analyzed practices that contributed to business resilience and recovery

Results

• Identified strategies businesses used to adapt during the pandemic
• Documented operational and marketing innovations that supported resilience
• Highlighted approaches to managing labour and supply chain challenges
• Developed insights into factors contributing to business success in remote communities
• Created a framework of best practices to support future hospitality operations

Why it matters

• Provides useful lessons for hospitality businesses operating in rural and remote regions
• Supports stronger business resilience in the face of future disruptions
• Highlights the unique challenges and opportunities of island-based tourism and hospitality
• Contributes to economic recovery and community sustainability efforts
• Helps businesses identify practical strategies for long-term success