RIU Hotels & Resorts has unveiled its sustainability strategy "Proudly Committed" in Buenos Aires, marking the start of the dissemination of its environmental and social commitments in its main source markets.
During the presentation, the chain's CEO, Naomi Riu, highlighted that the group's social investment now stands at almost 20 million dollars (18.4 million euros) over the last six years, with a special focus on health and child protection.
The event, organized at Cinépolis Recoleta in the Argentine capital, brought together over 100 professionals from travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, and specialized media. The event also had the institutional support of the Spanish Ambassador to Argentina, Joaquín de Arístegui Laborde, and the Spanish Tourism Counselor, Felipe Formariz Pombo.
Growth in Social Investment and Roadmap
Naomi Riu emphasized the evolution of the hotelier's economic effort, indicating that the budget allocated to social investment has increased from 1.5 million dollars (1.38 million euros) in 2019 to almost 6 million dollars (5.52 million euros) projected for the end of 2025.
"Betting on RIU is also helping to translate these figures into health, protection, and a future for thousands of children and ecosystems," stated the executive.
For her part, the Director of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Catalina Alemany, detailed the main achievements of the "Proudly Committed" strategy, structured around three pillars: people, sustainable destinations, and transparency.
RIU's Sales Manager for LATAM, Fernando Turuzzi, confirmed Argentina's role as a leading market in the region, accounting for 60% of the chain's total revenue in Latin America.
In terms of portfolio expansion and renovation, Turuzzi announced significant news for the Argentine public. Among these is the upcoming opening of Riu Palace Phuket, which will mark the company's entry into Thailand, as well as comprehensive renovations with the incorporation of the exclusive Elite Club service in strategic destinations such as Cancun (Riu Palace Peninsula), Playa del Carmen (Riu Palace Mexico), Jamaica, and Aruba.
Emergency Response and Support in Jamaica
During the day, the company's ability to react to emergency situations has also been highlighted. After Hurricane Melissa passed through Jamaica, where RIU has seven hotels and nearly 4,000 employees, the chain launched a $2 million aid plan ($1.84 million euros) aimed at the recovery of the local community and staff.
"Jamaica is standing and stronger than ever," said Turuzzi, recalling that this year the chain celebrates its 25th anniversary of presence in the Caribbean country.