Robotics in Hospitality, Tourism, and Retailing: Research, Applications, and Policy Implications

Closes:
Journal
Public Administration and Policy
Guest editor(s)
Dr Stephanie W. Lee,

Public Administration and Policy: An Asia-Pacific Journal Special Issue in 2027:
Robotics in Hospitality, Tourism, and Retailing: Research, Applications, and Policy Implications

Editors: Dr. Stephanie W. Lee

Introduction

The rapid advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence are transforming industries worldwide, and the fields of hospitality, tourism, and retailing are no exception. From addressing pandemic challenges and manpower shortages to enhancing customer experiences and operational efficiency, robotics has become a critical focus of academic and practical inquiry. This special issue aims to explore the diverse applications of robotics in these industries, critically evaluate existing research, and develop a strategic research agenda. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the implications of robotics for public policy, ethics, human-robot interaction, and their applications in hospitality, tourism, retailing, and related fields, while also addressing critical reviews, future research directions, user and employee, and public administration perspectives. This special issue aligns with the broader theme of advancing research and practical insights into robotics’ role in service industries, thus encouraging collaboration between academia, industry, and government.

Suggested framework

The special issue invites academic contributions that explore the following sub-themes (but are not limited to):

  1. Public Policy Implications: How robotics influences public administration and policies in hospitality, tourism, retailing, and pertinent fields.
  2. Critical Reviews and Future Research Directions: A critical review of current robotics research and identification of future research directions and opportunities.
  3. Applications in Practice: Case studies or empirical research on the utilization of robots in hospitality, tourism, retailing, and related areas.
  4. Ethics and Robotics: Ethical considerations and challenges in robotics adoption in service industries, and policy implications.
  5. Employee Perspectives: Insights into employee experiences, expectations, and the design of robots to facilitate smooth human-robot collaboration.
  6. Perception and Usage Intention: The effects of robot appearance and service context on users’ intentions to adopt robotic services.

Guidelines for contributors

1. The length of each article is from 4,000 to 7,000 words, including structured abstract, tables, figures and references. The abstract has to be written within 250 words in four sub-sections: purpose, design/methodology/approach, findings, and originality/value.

2. Details of the manuscript requirements are available at: Author guidelines. Registration and access are available by clicking the button below.

 Submit your paper here!

3. Submission of manuscripts on the ScholarOne system with a copy to the guest editor 
  ([email protected]). https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/paap

 

Submission Deadline: 31 March 2026

Publication Date: June 2027