Assistance is available to help all stakeholders in the tourism industry get back on their feet.
The For Good Movement and Florida for Good (FFG) were founded on the principles of helping businesses in our state become more conscious, sustainable and focused on people and the planet instead of just profit. We put a strong sense of community at the core of all we do and the resources we provide. Having been co-created in partnership with a hospitality company, that sense of community is stronger than ever during this unprecedented time for an industry that has had a devastating impact as a result of the coronavirus.
While the situation is temporary, no one knows for certain how long it will last. What we do know is that these changes are significant and sudden and are unprecedented for businesses in the travel space with a financial impact worse than the 2008 Financial Crisis and 9/11 combined. The American Hotel and Lodging Association reports that based on current occupancy estimates for the immediate future and historical employment impact rates, 1 million direct jobs, or nearly 3.9 million total jobs, have either been eliminated or will be eliminated in the next few weeks, and since mid-February in the U.S., hotels have already lost $2.4 billion in room revenue.
FFG hopes to be a resource for hospitality business not just in our state but around the world. Please find helpful links below geared toward the hospitality industry. Our network understands the immense strain that many businesses are feeling at the moment in regard to their members’ financial strength and increasing stress. Please know we are here to assist and support, whether that be with information on SBA loans, Remote Working Environment Advice continuing on their B Impact Assessment or access to free/discounted resources and services.
One thing we do know is that this will not last forever.
For now, we encourage you to make unforgettable memories with family and friends at home, stay safe and draw close to what matters most. When this challenging time passes, we will be stronger and more eager to share in the human experience and explore our world together again. Travel is magical – it breaks down cultural differences, connects us to life and cultivates connections with our loved ones, all while reducing stress and enriching our lives. When the time comes, we cannot wait to join explorers from around the world and enjoy the wonder of travel together again.
Image courtesy of Visit Tampa Bay