Family Firm Management in Turbulent Times

Abstract

Family firms in tourism and hospitality (FFTH) are often characterized by their long-term orientation and strong “familiness” and embeddedness in tourism destinations. Families however are often confronted with and have to adapt to global change and can sometimes struggle with drastic changes in the tourism industry. And while the current COVID-19 pandemic will mean even more challenges for FFTH, it may also lead to opportunities for responsible tourism development. This chapter attempts to shed light on FFTH's ability to manage change, discussing their specific characteristics through the lens of sustainability and responsibility. The following chapters will analyze FFTH characteristics to develop recommendations for FFTH in supporting responsible tourism, and present ideas for a tourism policy that promotes FFTH.