Live from Brussels – Issue 110

Dear readers, 

Welcome to another issue of our ‘Live from Brussels’ newsletter.

The summer season has officially kicked off, and the European tourism and hospitality sector is performing well. Earlier in June, we were glad to hear that both the European Travel Commission (ETC) and the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) were optimistic about prospects for the sector, announcing a rise in travel confidence and an increase in worldwide international arrivals. 

Nonetheless, the future of our industry is still on shaky ground. The impact of rising inflation and soaring energy and food costs is already tangible for businesses. Tackling it will require further guidance and funding from the European Institutions and the Member States.

The same goes for labour and skills shortages. If you had a chance to travel this summer, you probably already noticed the severe effects of this crisis: from airlines having to reschedule or cancel flights to longer waiting times at your favourite restaurant. Hospitality simply cannot run without people. Should this situation continue any further, it risks stalling the long-awaited recovery post-pandemic.

Sustainability also remains a top issue for HOTREC, especially concerning the necessity for a fit-for-purpose Emissions Trading System (ETS) to help European tourism and hospitality go green; and the revision of the European Commission’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). 

HOTREC will keep a close eye on these issues and continue teaming up with members, industry partners, and European Institutions. Collaborating with the newly inaugurated Czech presidency of the EU Council will also be essential to keep up the great work and effectively tackle the most urgent problems. I want to thank Czech Minister Ivan Bartoš for answering our questions on presidency priorities for the next six months.

I want to conclude by celebrating a crucial win for European hospitality: a few days ago, the European Parliament approved the Digital Markets and the Digital Services Acts. We consider this decision a considerable achievement for our industry on the path to guaranteeing hospitality companies a fairer relationship with platforms. If you want to know more about this topic and our position, I invite you to check out our press release and 2022 Hotel Distribution Study.

I wish you all a great summer!