Interview with MEP Niels Flemming Hansen

MEP Niels Flemming Hansen is a Member of the European Parliament from Denmark for The Conservative People's Party and sits with the EPP Group. He is a member of the ITRE Committee and a substitute member of both ENVI and SANT. He is also actively involved in several SME-related forums, including the SME Circle, SME Europe, and the SME Intergroup.

1. As Chair of the SME Intergroup, how do you see the role of small and medium-sized enterprises in Europe’s hospitality and tourism ecosystem, and what key priorities should the EU focus on to support them?

“SMEs are the backbone of Europe’s economy, and this is especially the case when it comes to hospitality and tourism, where many businesses are family-run hotels, restaurants, guesthouses, and tour operators. These businesses are essential for local jobs, vibrant rural areas, and the cultural richness that defines Europe. Without strong SMEs, the tourism sector simply cannot function.

Our core task in the EU must be to make it easier – not harder – for small businesses to succeed. That means continuing the work of simplifying EU rules, reducing unnecessary burdens, and ensuring that regulation is proportionate. SMEs should not be held back by red tape that takes time away from running and growing their business.

Supporting SMEs is not only an economic priority, but also a social and cohesion priority: strong local businesses help regions thrive, keep communities alive, and foster cross-border cultural exchange.”

2. Many hospitality SMEs struggle with skills shortages, complex regulations, and rising operational costs. What concrete measures can the EU and national governments take to help these businesses remain competitive and continue creating local jobs?

“If we want hospitality SMEs to stay competitive and continue creating local jobs, both the EU and national governments must take targeted and practical action. First and foremost, we must reduce the regulatory burden. Every new EU initiative should undergo a proper SME impact assessment, and Member States should move toward simple, digital “one-stop-shops” for licensing, reporting, and compliance. Less paperwork means more time on customers and business development.

Fair competition is essential. Large digital platforms must not be allowed to impose unfair conditions on small hospitality providers. SMEs deserve a fair playing field, transparent rules, and the ability to compete based on quality and service.”

3. Looking ahead to 2026, what is your message to hospitality entrepreneurs and SME owners about opportunities in digitalisation, sustainability, and fair competition?

“Looking ahead to 2026, my message is clear: there are many opportunities, but seizing them requires boldness and smart planning. Digitalisation – from booking systems to online marketing and smart energy management – can make your business more resilient, visible, and competitive.

Sustainability is also becoming an increasingly strong business advantage. Investing in energy efficiency, eco-friendly operations, and green renovations reduces long-term costs and appeals to customers who value responsible tourism. The EU provides funding and advisory programs to support these investments, so I encourage SMEs to make use of these tools.

Europe depends on strong small businesses. With the right investments in people, technology, and efficiency, and with a regulatory environment that enables – not restricts – entrepreneurship, Europe’s hospitality SMEs can continue to grow, create jobs, and set global standards for excellence.”