Taking care of those who make daily operations possible is the key to sustaining the company’s growth, competitiveness, and reputation.

Is it possible to design work experiences that keep teams engaged, even in times of high pressure?

The 2025 Tourism Outlook Report by Exceltur sends a clear signal about the direction of the sector: this summer, 92.6% of new contracts were permanent, and 64.6% were full-time. These figures not only reflect a strong commitment to job stability but also reveal a deliberate strategy to attract and retain talent.

In a highly competitive market like tourism, companies are striving to bring in and retain the best professionals, fully aware that having skilled and engaged teams is essential to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Trinidad Alonso, Head of Culture and People at GAT Hospitality, explains:

“From a strategic standpoint, these compensation and people policies directly influence service quality and corporate reputation. Investing in well-being, professional growth, and a sense of belonging is not a cost — it’s the strategy that enables us to deliver service excellence and ensure every guest enjoys a memorable experience.”

So, can companies continue to invest in building a culture of engagement in such a dynamic sector? The answer is yes — but it requires an approach grounded in clarity, support, and purpose:

◉ Clear communication: Keeping teams informed about goals, priorities, and results builds trust and alignment. When everyone understands where the company is headed and why, they feel part of the journey.

◉ Recognition: Celebrating achievements and appreciating daily efforts boosts motivation and strengthens the sense of belonging. It’s not just about formal rewards, but about genuine acknowledgment of each person’s contribution.

◉ Well-being: Supporting work–life balance through flexible schedules and healthy habits protects employees’ physical and emotional health, reducing stress and absenteeism.

◉ Purpose and belonging: Connecting daily work with a meaningful impact transforms routine tasks into fulfilling experiences.

“The nature of our business — marked by seasonality and operational pressure — demands a strategic approach to talent management and the development of a strong culture of engagement. That’s why our priority is to support our teams through every stage of change: ensuring they understand the goals and impact of new initiatives, actively listening to their needs, and providing the necessary training and support to ease adaptation,” adds Trinidad Alonso.

Such practices increase productivity, reduce turnover, and ultimately create memorable experiences for guests. As Trinidad concludes:

“In a sector as demanding as tourism, taking care of the people who make daily operations possible is the key to sustaining growth, competitiveness, and brand reputation.”

At GAT Hospitality, we know that our people are the foundation for operational excellence, talent retention, and — ultimately — for delivering unique and unforgettable experiences to our guests.

WE KNOW HOW.