This paper suggests that the lack of a comprehensive, systematic, or rigorous historical study of the growth of the corporate hospitality sector can be partially rectified by a review of the auto/biographies of several leading hospitality entrepreneurs. With recognition of both the advantages and clear limits of such an approach the paper argues that, nevertheless, continuities can be observed within developments in the contemporary hospitality industry. The analysis of these auto/biographical accounts provides us with some insight into current key debates surrounding issues such as: strategies for internationalization, standardization versus differentiation and the lack of trade unions in the hospitality industry. The paper concludes by offering some tentative suggestions for furthering a more searching historical analysis.
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