Transitioning from Anthropocene to Anthropause? A Study of the Consumer Behavioural Shifts in the Hospitality Sector

The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the human race to transition from anthropocene to anthropause philosophy. Against this backdrop, the term “anthropause” describes the abrupt and intentional cessation of regular human activities caused by the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The human response to this global health crisis has massively affected and altered human behaviour. The pandemic had an enormous impact with a sudden halt in the global human mobility phenomenon, and businesses were pushed to cater to altered consumption patterns. Hospitality is one such sector that has been impacted immensely. The study examines the key factors influencing consumer behaviour in the hospitality industry during the post-pandemic times. The study can be classified as conceptual research and would assess the theoretical underpinnings of the studies focusing on altered consumer behaviour. The chapter would also lead to a critical discussion on the transformation of consumption behaviour in the aftermath of this outbreak. Thematic content analysis of the data collected through the review of critical works in the domain of hospitality management has been triangulated with the authors’ reflections to reach a consensual position. This work would also focus on understanding the theoretical standpoint of the researchers about the various stages of evolution in consumer behaviour in the field of hospitality businesses. Lastly, this conceptual study aims to analyse the current trends and future directions in consumer behaviour with particular reference to hospitality businesses. As post-pandemic consumer behaviour is still evolving, the present chapter would help trigger a broader discussion within academia and practitioners of hospitality businesses.