This week, I am excited to delve into a topic that demonstrates the powerful role of social innovation in reshaping the hospitality industry. During my Employer of Choice tour with Destination NSW, I had the incredible opportunity to meet and work with the team from Hotel Etico. Learning about their journey and mission was truly inspiring, and I am thrilled to bring their CEO, Andrea Comastri, onto the show. It is a story you don’t want to miss.

My discussion with Andrea offers an eye-opening perspective on how incorporating a social mission into your business model can cultivate a sense of purpose and social responsibility, boost personal satisfaction, and deliver tangible business outcomes.

Andrea and I discuss how Hotel Etico not only supports the community by employing people with disabilities but also sets a new standard for what a successful business can look like. This episode is packed with insights on leveraging inclusivity for competitive advantage, enhancing brand reputation, and ultimately, achieving sustainable growth.

What you will learn from this episode:

Implementing social initiatives in your business plan 🌟
Enhancing your brand through inclusivity and diversity 🚀
Balancing social impact with financial sustainability 🔍
Maintaining culture and values during expansion 🌍
Innovative approaches to training and development in hospitality 💡
Facing the unique challenges of a social enterprise 📈
Building a supportive community around your brand ✨

Andrea Comastri is a figure of significant influence in the social enterprise sector, having co-founded Hotel Etico, Australia’s first not-for-profit hotel that focuses on empowering young adults with disabilities. With his extensive background in the not-for-profit sector addressing critical issues like disability and homelessness, Andrea’s insights are invaluable for anyone looking to integrate more profound societal values into their business practices.

Listening to this episode will equip you with the necessary knowledge and inspiration to integrate social values into your business model effectively. It’s an invaluable learning opportunity for anyone passionate about making their accommodation business not just a place to stay, but a place that truly makes a difference.

📽 Watch the episodes here

🎙 Listen to the episodes here