Corporate social responsibility as seen in the hotel sector

Purpose: The purpose of the paper is to identify and to evaluate the implementation of socially responsible activities undertaken by entities of the hotel industry – on the example of selected groups of hotels in Poland.

Design/ methodology/ approach: The paper is based on a critical analysis of subject literature, industry reports and data made available by the analyzed entities.

Findings: Over the recent years, a trend of comprehensive and professional approach to introducing CSR by hotels has been noticeable, however it unfortunately applies mainly to large hotels, especially international hotel chains – there is no such trend among smaller entities providing accommodation services. It is a particular challenge for the hotel industry. Under socially responsible operations, hotels focus on the following aspects: economic, social and environmental. Leading hotel groups take up most activities in the “natural environment” pillar, followed immediately by the “workplace” pillar. It is increasingly noticeable that hotel chains implement various types of certificates (often requiring an audit), e.g. BS 8901, LEED, BREEAM, ISO 9001, ISO14001, Green Key.

Originality of the research: Comparison of hotel groups (operating on the territory of Poland) in terms of their implementation of elements of CRS activities. Identification of socially responsible activities of hotel groups and chains, addressing specific stakeholders. Presenting the state of CSR implementation in leading hotel groups and hotels in Poland.