How Large Is the Hospitality and Tourism Industry?

By Michael Ferguson

The Hospitality and Tourism industry is one of the most rapidly growing industries in the world. It encompasses an extensive range of services, including lodging, food services, recreation, transportation, and travel-related services.

The industry has a significant impact on the global economy and provides job opportunities for millions of people worldwide. In this article, we will explore the scope and size of the Hospitality and Tourism industry.

The Growth of the Hospitality and Tourism Industry

The Hospitality and Tourism industry has experienced substantial growth in recent years. According to a report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the industry generated $8.8 trillion in 2019, which is equivalent to 10.3% of global GDP. This figure is expected to rise to $11.4 trillion by 2029, representing 11.5% of global GDP.

The Impact on Employment

The Hospitality and Tourism industry is one of the largest employers globally, providing jobs for approximately 330 million people worldwide. This figure accounts for one in ten jobs globally and is expected to increase as the industry continues to grow.

The Role of Accommodation Services

Accommodation services are a vital component of the Hospitality and Tourism industry. The hotel sector alone generated $570 billion in revenue in 2017 according to Statista.com. Besides hotels, other types of accommodation such as motels, resorts, guesthouses, camping grounds also contribute significantly to this figure.

  • Hotels: $570 billion
  • Other accommodation: $200 billion

The Importance of Food Services in the Industry

Food services are another critical component of the Hospitality and Tourism industry that contributes significantly to its growth. The restaurant sector alone generates over $2 trillion globally each year according to Statista.

The Role of Transportation Services

The Hospitality and Tourism industry also includes transportation services such as airlines, car rental companies, cruise lines, and railways. These services are essential for tourists who need to travel to their destinations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Hospitality and Tourism industry is a vast and rapidly growing industry that has a significant impact on the global economy. The sector provides job opportunities for millions of people worldwide and plays an essential role in the development of local economies. As the world continues to become more interconnected, we can expect the Hospitality and Tourism industry to continue its growth trajectory.