Building Capacity and Community to support Progressive Procurement in Hospitality and Tourism

Through a collaboration between Regional Tourism Organization Four (RTO4) and researchers from the University of Guelph, this project seeks to advance the adoption of progressive procurement practices within the regional hospitality and tourism sector. Progressive procurement refers to purchasing decisions that incorporate environmental, social, and ethical considerations. The hospitality and tourism industry is a significant contributor to economic development, employing approximately 2.3 million Canadians, yet it also consumes substantial natural resources and contributes to carbon emissions. Increasing progressive procurement can mitigate these impacts while fostering local economic development and enhancing community wellbeing. Building on RTO4’s past work, which identified barriers such as supplier identification challenges and knowledge gaps, the project will deliver three key outputs: a sustainable supplier directory, a progressive procurement readiness roadmap, and the formation of a progressive procurement community of practice. An action research methodology will guide implementation, leveraging RTO4’s industry expertise and the research team’s knowledge of sustainable supply chains and community wealth-building.

Faculty Supervisor:

Kelsey Taylor

Student:

Partner:

Regional Tourism Organization Four Inc.

Discipline:

Business

Sector:

Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services; Other services (except public administration)

University:

University of Guelph

Program: