Live from Brussels | Newsletter | April 2025
Dear readers,
As we move further into 2025, the European hospitality sector continues to adapt to new realities – from growing economic tensions to shifting geopolitical patterns. This edition of our newsletter reflects HOTREC’s continued efforts to represent and support our members through timely policy engagement, strategic dialogue and industry collaboration.
We’re particularly looking forward to the 90th HOTREC General Assembly, taking place from 28 to 30 April in Oslo, Norway. As always, it will be an opportunity to gather with our members, reflect on achievements, and align on the way forward for a stronger and more resilient hospitality ecosystem in Europe. In Vilnius just last week, HOTREC’s participation in the Future Hospitality and Tourism Forum reaffirmed the role of hospitality as a driver of cohesion, culture and economic vitality across Europe.
In recent weeks, HOTREC has been active across a broad policy landscape – from advocating for fair digital rules and Google’s non-compliance with the Digital Markets Act, to pushing for practical labour and skills solutions through the EU Talent Pool and Union of Skills initiatives. At the same time, we have strongly voiced our concerns over the European Commission’s proposal to limit prepayments in the Package Travel Directive. The measure could severely affect tourism SMEs and price-sensitive consumers.
Last month, the Commission published the new Roadmap for Women’s Rights which we gladly support – setting the tone for a more inclusive and equitable EU. On another note, at HOTREC, we are strengthening our engagement on circular economy topics – such as mattress recycling – through active cooperation with stakeholders.
This edition also highlights our support for the #StopFakeReviews campaign, advocating for greater integrity in the digital marketplace and better protections for businesses and consumers alike.
Finally, don’t miss our exclusive interview with MEP Daniel Attard (S&D/Malta) who shares his vision for the sector’s contribution to tourism, sustainability and community resilience.
We invite you to explore these developments and more as we continue to advocate for a competitive and sustainable hospitality industry.
Best regards,
The HOTREC Team