The hospitality sector is extremely concerned by a resurgence of infection rates and lockdown measures. HOTREC General Assembly discussions focused on how to avoid further losses and help businesses survive and remain viable. The worst of the crisis is not yet behind us: over the past two years, hospitality has shown great resilience and fully complied with restrictions and health and safety protocols to be able to continue welcoming guests. Nonetheless, businesses in the sector are still the first and hardest hit.

To help hospitality exit this vicious cycle, participants at the General Assembly agreed that the sector needs urgent financial support to face a new wave of restrictions and medium-term

support to face future setbacks and facilitate the digital and sustainable transition. It is also crucial to further coordinate measures and efforts against Covid-19 at the EU level, without limiting the freedom of movement within the Union.

Several panel discussions addressed these short- and long–term challenges, including the digitalization of hospitality establishments, innovation and sustainability , and the need to hire and retain staff amidst an overt workforce crisis.

“Our General Assembly came at a delicate time for the industry: after two years of nonstop challenges and at the beginning of another Coronavirus wave,” commented Mr Jens Zimmer Christensen, President of HOTREC. “Now more than ever, we must continue to support the millions of businesses, SMEs, and workers that keep facing hardships and uncertainty.”

On 2 December, HOTREC also officially welcomed the Cyprus Hotel Association (CHA) as its 46th member in 35 European countries. In this regard, Ms Marie Audren, Director General of HOTREC, stated: “we are delighted to welcome CHA to the HOTREC family. CHA contribution and know-how will undoubtedly be precious to help tourism and hospitality bounce back and continue being a pillar of the European economy, society and culture. We stand #TogetherForHospitality”.

During the annual Gala Dinner, HOTREC announced the winners of the Gaspart Bonet Foundation award in recognition of their precious contribution to the industry. More information is available here.

For further information: www.hotrec.eu

Press Contact:                      Ms Alessia Angiulli, Communications Manager | alessia.angiulli(at)hotrec.eu |

+ 32 (0)2 504 78 48

​​​​​​​