Is the Hospitality Industry Really Becoming More Inclusive?
We are looking at the push for diversity in restaurants, bars, and hotels, and if it’s creating real change. When you walk into most trendy restaurants or boutique hotels today, you’ll likely see signs that read “All Are Welcome” or “Diversity Makes Us Stronger.” On the surface, the hospitality industry appears to be undergoing a transformation—one that prioritizes inclusivity, representation, and equity. But is this shift genuine, or just a performance designed to appeal to modern consumers? And more importantly, how can both guests and businesses ensure that inclusivity is more than just a marketing trend?
The State of Inclusivity in Hospitality
The hospitality sector has long been criticized for its lack of diversity, especially in leadership roles. A study by the Castell Project found that less than 2% of hotel CEOs were Black, despite Black travelers contributing over $109 billion to the U.S. travel economy. Women also remain significantly underrepresented in executive positions, even though they make up a large portion of the industry’s workforce.
In response, many hospitality brands have launched initiatives aimed at promoting diversity. Major hotel chains have committed to hiring more BIPOC talent, restaurants are showcasing diverse cuisines, and bars are highlighting underrepresented voices in the beverage industry. But are these efforts making a meaningful difference, or are they simply ticking boxes to satisfy public expectations?
Real Change or Just PR?
The rise of social awareness has forced businesses to prioritize inclusivity. However, some critics argue that many of these changes are surface-level and fail to address the systemic issues embedded in the industry.
1. Representation Without Real Power
Many companies highlight their diverse teams in advertising and branding, but representation at the front lines doesn’t always extend to decision-making roles. A restaurant may have a diverse kitchen staff, but who owns the establishment? Who sits on the board? A push for equity means ensuring people from all backgrounds have a seat at the table—not just in public-facing roles, but in leadership positions that shape company culture and policies.
2. Tokenism vs. True Inclusion
Some businesses have been accused of tokenism—hiring diverse employees to meet a quota rather than fostering an environment that truly supports them. Real inclusivity means ensuring fair pay, safe workspaces, and opportunities for growth. It also means listening to underrepresented voices and making structural changes that empower them long-term.
3. Economic Barriers to Entry
The cost of entry in hospitality remains a major hurdle for marginalized groups. Opening a restaurant, running a bar, or launching a boutique hotel requires substantial capital—something that many entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities struggle to access. Financial institutions and investors must be part of the conversation, creating funding opportunities that level the playing field.
What Consumers Can Do to Drive Change
As a guest, your choices have more influence than you might realize. Here’s how you can be part of the solution:
Support BIPOC- and Women-Owned Businesses – Seek out establishments owned by individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Websites like EatOkra (which highlights Black-owned restaurants) and The LEE Initiative (which promotes gender equity in food and beverage) make it easier to find diverse businesses.
Ask Questions & Hold Businesses Accountable – Don’t hesitate to inquire about a company’s diversity and inclusion policies. Are they hiring and promoting diverse talent? Are they paying fair wages?
Tip and Treat Staff with Respect – Hospitality workers often experience discrimination and bias. A little kindness and generosity go a long way in making the industry a better place for everyone.
Amplify the Right Voices – Follow and engage with chefs, bartenders, and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. Your social media support can help elevate their platforms and attract new opportunities.
What Hospitality Businesses Can Do
For the hospitality industry to become truly inclusive, businesses must move beyond performative gestures and implement real change:
Create Opportunities for Advancement – Businesses should invest in mentorship and leadership training programs for underrepresented groups.
Fair Wages and Equal Pay – Ensuring wage transparency and pay equity is crucial to fostering an inclusive workplace.
Foster Inclusive Spaces – Beyond hiring practices, businesses should ensure their environments are welcoming for all guests. This means training staff on cultural competency, designing accessible spaces, and being mindful of how policies impact marginalized communities.
Collaborate with Diverse Creators – Featuring chefs, mixologists, and event curators from different backgrounds brings fresh perspectives to the industry and encourages real inclusivity.
The bottom line is, Inclusivity must be more than a trend While progress has been made, the hospitality industry still has a long road ahead to achieve true equity. Real inclusivity isn’t just about optics—it’s about creating systems that allow everyone, from staff to customers, to feel valued and empowered.
HoCo: Your Partner in Meaningful Change
At HoCo, we believe that true innovation starts with inclusivity. Our team works with hospitality businesses to create equitable, forward-thinking strategies that not only drive success but also contribute to lasting industry change. From strategic consulting to market research and special event curation, we’re here to help businesses transform their operations with impact-driven solutions.
Looking to make a difference in your hospitality business? Let’s talk.
