Page 61 - Sustaining Accommodation SMES

6.1 Qualitative Insights

whereas others view them as complex, costly, and administratively bur-
densome, particularly for smaller establishments. The lack of credible ev-
idence demonstrating the market value of certification further reinforces
scepticism and delays adoption.
Qualitative evidence points to several enabling solutions. Financial in-
centives such as subsidies, tax reductions, and dedicated funding schemes
are perceived as critical for supporting investments in energy-efficient
technologies and renewable energy systems. Simplifying and streamlin-
ing certification processes would substantially reduce perceived barriers,
particularly for smes. Finally, structured training, practical guidance,
and knowledge-sharing initiatives are essential for strengthening organ-
isational capacity, improving understanding of environmental impacts,
and supporting gradual, confidence-based improvement.

socio-cultural sustainability
Socio-cultural sustainability is primarily understood through relation-
ships with employees, guests, and local communities. Interviewees em-
phasised guestsatisfaction,repeatvisitation, andstaffwellbeing as central
objectives. Practices such as fair treatment of employees, flexible work-
ing arrangements, and attention to service quality were commonly men-
tioned, though often without formalised social responsibility strategies.
Qualitative findings highlight several persistent socio-cultural chal-
lenges. Accommodation providers frequently struggle to balance the eco-
nomic imperative of attracting tourists with the responsibility to min-
imise negative social and cultural impacts. These challenges are partic-
ularly pronounced for smaller establishments with limited financial and

Table 6.3 Socio-Cultural Sustainability Main Issues and Examples
Main issues Examples
Relationship • We would need full cooperation with cultural institutuions [...]
between Lack of cooperation and proper information flow makes it diffi-
tourism-service cult to offer meaningful cultural experiences for guests.
providers • We’re trying to offer packages that would allow our guests to ex-
and local plore local events and culture, but there’s little cooperation from
populations the local population.
Limited financial • We can’t afford to pay competitive wages [...] It’s a problem when
resources and trying to retain staff, especially during the high season.
staff • We’re continuously short of waiters and other key staff, espe-
cially during high season, as many leave for better-paying jobs in
neighbouring countries.

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