PHĀEA
PHĀEA’s Journey to Business Excellence through the EFQM Model: A Sustainable Success Story
PHĀEA, a leading player in the hospitality industry, has embarked on a remarkable journey towards Business Excellence by adopting the EFQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) model. This journey reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, ethical business practices, and a holistic approach to corporate responsibility. In this success story, we delve into the key elements that have propelled PHĀEA to new heights, exploring its achievements, the ongoing success, and the future trajectory.
The Foundation: Sustainability Committee and Officer
PHĀEA laid the groundwork for its success by establishing a dedicated Sustainability Committee at the administration level. This committee serves as the driving force behind the company’s sustainability strategy, ensuring that every step aligns seamlessly with overarching business goals. The committee is tasked with monitoring progress, setting directions, and steering the company towards a sustainable future.
Further solidifying their commitment, PHĀEA appointed a Sustainability Officer responsible for day-to-day oversight. This individual collaborates closely with management teams across all hotel properties, embedding sustainability into the core of the company’s operations. This approach ensures that sustainable practices are not just a concept but an integral part of the company’s DNA.
ISO 21401 Certification: A Testament to Commitment
PHĀEA stands as a beacon in the hospitality industry by acquiring ISO 21401, an international standard for sustainable tourism. This certification serves as a tangible demonstration of the company’s dedication to sustainable practices. ISO 21401 provides a structured framework for evaluating sustainability performance, enabling PHĀEA to identify areas for improvement and continually raise the bar.
Transparent Reporting: GRI Standards and Sustainability Report
Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of PHĀEA sustainability journey. The company has embraced the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards, releasing an extensive sustainability report that delves into environmental impact, social responsibility, and governance. By sharing this comprehensive report, PHĀEA not only showcases its commitment but also invites valuable feedback and input from stakeholders.
Success in Numbers: Environmental Impact Reduction
PHĀEA dedication to sustainability is not just a symbolic gesture but is backed by tangible results. Through meticulous efforts and strategic initiatives, the company has significantly reduced its environmental impact. Whether it’s energy consumption, waste management, or water usage, PHĀEA has implemented innovative solutions to minimize its ecological footprint. These achievements not only contribute to a healthier planet but also resonate positively with environmentally conscious guests.
Social Responsibility: Empowering Communities
Beyond environmental considerations, PHĀEA recognizes its role in fostering social responsibility. The company actively engages with local communities, initiating programs that empower and uplift. Whether it’s supporting local schools, providing vocational training, or championing diversity and inclusion, PHĀEA goes beyond the conventional hospitality model. Beyond environmental considerations, PHĀEA recognizes its pivotal role in fostering social responsibility. The company actively engages with local communities, initiating programs that empower and uplift. Supporting local schools, providing vocational training, or championing diversity and inclusion, has always been of outmost importance.
One groundbreaking initiative is the ‘Phāea Farmers Programme,’ an innovative endeavor designed to support the employees’ agricultural pursuits, particularly during the low season when the hotels are closed.
Given Crete’s renowned agricultural heritage, many of the employees are also seasonal farmers. The ‘Phāea Farmers Programme’ is tailored precisely for these individuals, aiming to bolster their agricultural endeavors by harnessing a network of local food experts and agronomists. Through strategic collaborations, the farmers undergo comprehensive training in sustainable and organic farming methods, promoting responsible land use practices.
This program not only adds value to the employees’ lives but also enhances the quality of the produce they cultivate, which is directly sourced from them. Furthermore, it aligns with PHĀEA’s commitment to offering guests premium quality, fresh, seasonal, organic produce, sourced locally. It also presents guests with unique opportunities to experience the local culture through visits to the farms and organic gardens.
By spearheading initiatives like the ‘Phāea Farmers Programme,’ PHĀEA transcends the boundaries of conventional hospitality.
This approach not only enhances the company’s brand but also establishes it as a socially responsible corporate citizen.
Governance Practices: Enhancing Resilience
PHĀEA understands that robust governance practices are fundamental to long-term success. By adhering to stringent governance standards, the company not only ensures compliance but also establishes a resilient foundation. Transparent decision-making processes, ethical conduct, and a commitment to integrity are embedded in the company’s culture, safeguarding its reputation and fostering trust among stakeholders.
Future Focus: A Sustainable Trajectory
PHĀEA’s success story is not just about past achievements; it’s a roadmap for the future. The company is poised to build upon its accomplishments, continually refining its sustainability strategy. The future holds exciting possibilities, with PHĀEA exploring innovative technologies, engaging in research and development, and collaborating with industry partners to push the boundaries of sustainable practices.
The success of PHĀEA’s journey to Business Excellence through the adoption of the EFQM model is a testament to the company’s visionary leadership, dedicated teams, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact. As sustainability becomes an integral part of the business landscape, PHĀEA stands as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing that ethical practices and business success can go hand in hand.
“By adopting the EFCM model, we believe that it significantly contributes to harmonizing the vision, values, and strategy of Phaea Resorts, with the daily operation of our hotels, focusing on Sustainable Development, responsible business, and our own contribution to regenerative hospitality”.
Babis Foskolakis, Member of the Board and President of Sustainability Committee
Photoshoot from EFQM Award Ceremony took place at Athens Chamber of Commerce & Industry (A.C.C.I), on 24.11.2022, from left to right Nikos Vasiliou, President of INBIAN BoD, Babis Foskolakis, Member of the Board of Phaea & President of Sustainability Committee, Olympia Anastasopoulou, Secretary General for Tourism Policy and Development, Ioannis Bertsatos, INBIAN CEO
