Ajantha Perera

THE VALUE OF AUTHENTICITY

Making the most of Sri Lanka’s potential for a vibrant hospitality sector

Sector status

Currently, it stands at natural growth levels and the trend is very positive moving forward.

Growth potential

The hospitality sector has the potential to become a vibrant and sustainable contributor to GDP, and increase foreign exchange earnings.

Career benefits

It would do so while creating enduring career opportunities for Sri Lankans.

Core strength

The Sri Lankan people.

Trajectory

The hospitality sector must move towards sustainable development and operations, and introduce wellness in every aspect of the guest journey.

Destination potential

This is the ideal way forward for Sri Lanka to become an innovative and sought after destination.

Collective sustainability

Encourage all stakeholders to make sustainable decisions across the board on financial performance, environmental impact and community development.

Main threat

Migration of skilled and talented youth.

Addressing the brain drain

We must compete with other markets in terms of remuneration packages.

Impact of technology

It plays a pivotal role in enhancing guest experiences since human engagement in certain areas can never be replicated by technology.

Counterpoint

At some engagement points, digital advancements have taken over.

Changes on the go

This constantly motivates us to challenge any preconceived notions and adapt so that guests can be offered the best service.

Food safety

All stand-alone and hotel restaurants must be graded and monitored regularly.

Long-term approach to food safety

Food safety management systems must be compulsory.

Impact of changing customer expectations

With rapid digital advancements, customer expectations change constantly and the sector must continue to invest to ensure that these are met.

Consumer trends 

With many travellers becoming more sustainability conscious, the sector must move towards becoming sustainable.

Winning formula

Sector stakeholders should have a genuine interest in hospitality and a passion to make a positive impact.

Role of wellness

Due to the hectic pace of life, travellers look for relaxation options and that’s why wellness in this sector plays a key role.

Operational ethos

Invest in new world-class systems, as well as upgrading quality and standards, and constantly training the workforce.

Recent setbacks

The hospitality sector did not progress at the same speed as it did in 2018 and the years after the war ended in 2009.

Reason for the setbacks

The multiple crises that impacted the country over the past four and a half years.

Need of the hour

If stability prevails, the scope of the sector can be broadened to introduce new concepts, products and services.

Growth prospects

There are plenty of opportunities by dint of destination marketing and training personnel.

Competition at play

Currently, there is intense competition with local and international brands competing internally and externally at the destination level.

Strategy to stay ahead

Offer authentic experiences, market them appropriately and maintain high standards.

Loyalty factor

Create loyalty by offering value for money, regular training in service standards and improving quality.

Boomerang effect

When the hospitality sector is booming, many other dependent sectors also tend to thrive.

Authenticity

Guests must experience true and authentic hospitality not only in the sector but the country as a whole so that Sri Lanka can be marketed as a high end destination.

Reality bites

Providing an authentic hospitality experience loses its value if guests encounter deception once they leave the hotel or resort.

Joint effort

We must all focus and work together to make each visit to the island memorable for guests.

Vital career skills

A passion to delight visitors by providing authentic experiences.

Vision for Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector

To be a world-class leader in offering the best and most authentic service with sustainability at its core.

Mantra for success

People make the difference.

– Compiled by Dona Senara

Ajantha Perera is the General Manager of Jetwing Colombo Seven.