Background and Objective: As one of the world's most dynamic service sectors, the HoReCa industry has experienced significant growth in Iran; however, academic research has not kept pace with this expansion. Aiming to bridge this research gap, this study provides a comprehensive review of international literature using a scoping review approach.
Methodology: The methodology involved a systematic search of credible databases using relevant keywords, followed by article screening based on predefined criteria using the PRISMA checklist. After selecting the final articles, their content was evaluated using thematic analysis.
Findings: The results indicate that success in HoReCa depends on financial flexibility in the face of crises, continuous innovation (particularly in digital technologies), and adherence to safety and sustainability standards. The findings emphasize that various HoReCa segments, such as catering, demonstrate greater resilience to economic shocks due to their flexible operational nature.
Conclusion and Recommendations: HoReCa is a complex and multifaceted service ecosystem where success hinges on financial agility, constant innovation, and rigorous safety standards. Given HoReCa's growth in Iran and the scarcity of academic studies, this paper suggests future research focus on comparative performance analysis of Iran’s HoReCa sectors, investigating Iranian consumer behavioral economics, and evaluating the role of emerging technologies and human resource challenges in this competitive market. This research serves as a valuable guide for researchers, policymakers, and industry practitioners in Iran to move toward smart and sustainable development.
Innovation and Originality: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study concerning the HoReCa industry to be prepared for publication in the country’s scientific journals.
Mirabzadeh Ardakani, E. , Kazemi, N. , & Tolouei, A. (2026). Mapping Research in the HoReCa Industry: From Financial Management in Competitive Markets to Crisis. Tourism and hospitality marketing research, 4(1), 20-37. doi: 10.22080/tmhr.2026.30855.1109
MLA
Ehsan Mirabzadeh Ardakani; Nasrin Kazemi; Ali Tolouei. "Mapping Research in the HoReCa Industry: From Financial Management in Competitive Markets to Crisis", Tourism and hospitality marketing research, 4, 1, 2026, 20-37. doi: 10.22080/tmhr.2026.30855.1109
HARVARD
Mirabzadeh Ardakani, E., Kazemi, N., Tolouei, A. (2026). 'Mapping Research in the HoReCa Industry: From Financial Management in Competitive Markets to Crisis', Tourism and hospitality marketing research, 4(1), pp. 20-37. doi: 10.22080/tmhr.2026.30855.1109
CHICAGO
E. Mirabzadeh Ardakani , N. Kazemi and A. Tolouei, "Mapping Research in the HoReCa Industry: From Financial Management in Competitive Markets to Crisis," Tourism and hospitality marketing research, 4 1 (2026): 20-37, doi: 10.22080/tmhr.2026.30855.1109
VANCOUVER
Mirabzadeh Ardakani, E., Kazemi, N., Tolouei, A. Mapping Research in the HoReCa Industry: From Financial Management in Competitive Markets to Crisis. Tourism and hospitality marketing research, 2026; 4(1): 20-37. doi: 10.22080/tmhr.2026.30855.1109
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