HOTREC Highlights Vital Role of SMEs on European Hospitality Day

Photo source: HOTREC

The significant role the hospitality sector plays in Europe was highlighted by HOTREC President Alexandros Vassilikos on Tuesday. HOTREC is the umbrella association representing Hotels, Restaurants, Bars, Cafés, and similar establishments across Europe.

Speaking at the European Parliament in Brussels on the occasion of European Hospitality Day, Vassilikos highlighted the vital contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that form the core of the European hospitality sector.

In his speech, Vassilikos celebrated the hospitality industry as a key driver of the European economy, noting its pivotal role in creating millions of attractive jobs and preserving the European way of life.

“Hospitality unites people across differences of culture, origin, age, or gender, expressing inclusivity in practice,” he said.

HOTREC President Alexandros Vassilikos. Photo source: HOTREC

Vassilikos, who is also the president of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels, underscored the importance of the hospitality sector in Greece, calling it “a stable pillar of development and social cohesion.” He pointed out that hospitality represents a significant comparative advantage for the country, contributing to economic growth and fostering national pride.

Despite the sector’s achievements, Vassilikos acknowledged that considerable challenges still persist.

“The challenges for hospitality remain great,” he said, urging a collective effort from European institutions, governments, social partners, national bodies, and businesses to ensure that the sector remains sustainable, competitive, and valuable for all European citizens.

Commissioner Tzitzikostas attends HOTREC’s European Hospitality Day event

Photo source: HOTREC

HOTREC’s event also saw the participation of the new EU Commissioner for Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas.

In his first address to the industry, Tzitzikostas highlighted the need for small and medium-sized enterprises to become less dependent on online platforms and for a level playing field to be established within the sector.

He also referred to a new tourism strategy aimed at addressing the needs of local communities while promoting sustainable tourism practices.

European Hospitality Day serves as a reminder of the importance of the hospitality industry, celebrating its contributions and promoting policies that ensure its continued growth and impact.

Photo source: HOTREC

The voice of European hospitality, HOTREC brings together 47 associations in 36 countries.